Bow to Your Partner

Wendorf honors the Texas dances

Here's a stumper for ya: Why the hell would anyone want to drive from El Paso to Beaumont? An unyielding desire to trace the path of confused conquistadors? A certain need to travel the most boring road in America? A terrible urge to get the f*&# out of El Paso? Well, yes, probably. But artist Gail Wendorf made the west-to-east trek for better—or at least more sane—reasons. Wendorf embarked on her journey to chronicle the Texas tradition of dance and music, in the form of both photographs and paintings. The daughter of an SMU archaeologist, Wendorf does more than just capture a moment—her work portrays the almost sacred nature of a Texas dance. It's an exercise in cultural anthropology, as well as a celebration of the very essence of Texan-ness. After all, dancing in our fair state is more than just waltzes, two-stepping and the Cotton-Eyed Joe; like barbecue, football and Lone Star beer, it's a religion, a culture all its own. Wendorf's exhibit, Last Calls & Dance Halls, hangs at Alan Barnes Fine Art (1019 Slocum St.) through February 27. Call 214-749-7979.
Feb. 1-27

 
My Voice Nation Help
0 comments
 
©2013 Dallas Observer, LP, All rights reserved.
Browse Voice Nation
  • Voice Places Dallas / Fort Worth

    Voice Places

    Find everything you're looking for in your city

  • Happy Hour App

    Happy Hour App

    Find the best happy hour deals in your city

  • Daily Deals

    Daily Deals

    Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%

  • Best Of

    Best Of...

    Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city