Conduit Gallery in Dallas Celebrates 40 Years

This year, Conduit Gallery celebrates its 40th anniversary as one of the leading art galleries in Dallas. Since the space opened in Deep Ellum in 1984 and later relocated to its current spot in the Dallas Design District in 2002, Conduit has established itself as an incubator for new and mid-career artists. To celebrate their 40th anniversary, Conduit has given curatorial control to their artists in a special group exhibition.

Conduit at 40: Forte! showcases works by 27 guest artists, each selected by one of Conduit’s represented artists. “Conduit would not be what it is today without our incredible artists,” said Conduit Gallery Director Danette Dufilho in a press statement. “This exhibition is an example of the level of trust we have in them and their ideas. The spirit of collaboration in this show is a testament to what we always strive to be within the Dallas community.” Indeed, the gallery has a history of having faith in its artists, as seen in their delightful 2020 video conversation series of Conduit artists interviewing each other.

I found this concept of artists selecting other artists refreshing and community-centric, drawing webs of connections between artists new and old. Similarly, it was exciting exploring which artists and works of art my favorite Conduit artists had hand-chosen to be in the exhibition. Pieces range in styles and mediums, filling the space.

When I first stepped into the gallery my eyes immediately landed on a giant furry head, belonging to the whimsical Celia Eberle (chosen by Rosalyn Bodycomb). Next to it were four black and white photographs and a wooden table with paper sculptures by Elizabeth Mead (chosen by James Sullivan). On the same wall was a large painting with dainty illustrations by Tudor Mitroi (chosen by Vincent Falsetta). The next gallery featured even more works, my favorite being a collection of large wood and yarn pieces by Jade Walker (chosen by Margaret Meehan). In the far back room was the large mixed-media Day of the Dead Cross Shrine by Sharon Smith (chosen by Roberto Munguia), comprised of ceramic pieces, found objects, and stoneware elements. Although the artworks lack no cohesive theme or style, the exhibition paints a clear portrait of the history of Conduit and its artists.

“Artists are more than creators; they are storytellers whose work reflects the many varied experiences of our concurrent existence,” said Conduit Gallery founder and owner Nancy Whitenack. “The artists I have had the pleasure of representing over the past forty years have collectively shown me the power of art.” I had the pleasure of attending the opening reception for the exhibition, which was followed by a DJ dance party and a video projection performance by Susan kae Grant and Richard Klein. What a lovely evening celebrating community, relationships, and art in Dallas.

 

Conduit at 40: Forte! is on view at Conduit Gallery in Dallas through August 24, 2024. 

Emma S. Ahmad is an art historian and writer based in Dallas, Texas.