Beyond Reality

March 22, 2023 

- October 15, 2023

Located in the Lawson Print Gallery

Beyond Reality

March 22, 2023 

- October 15, 2023

Located in the Lawson Print Gallery

Beyond Reality includes artwork by four Texas-based artists who came of age in the early 21st century: Carlos Donjuan, Angela Fox, Ernesto Ibañez, and Dan Lam. Each employs bright colors, varied shapes, and unexpected textures to create captivating works that thrill the senses. 

Carlos Donjuan discovered his passion for art through cartoons, comic books, and graffiti. These early influences are evident in his practice, as seen in his imaginative creatures, masked figures, and vivid murals. 

Angela Fox finds inspiration in myriad sources, including animation, quilting, and medieval illuminated manuscripts. Her artwork focuses on self-discovery through a hero-warrior archetype, often featuring mighty, confident women in fantastical environments. 

Ernesto Ibañez transforms ordinary materials, including carpentry nails, into detailed sculptures of animal-like forms. While some of Ibañez’s sculptures resemble real-life animals, others depict enchanting creature hybrids or playful monsters. 

Dan Lam manipulates foam and resin to create otherworldly sculptures inspired by nature and the human body. Brilliantly colorful and alluringly tactile, Lam’s sculptures are reminiscent of enticing, candy-colored desserts or mysterious, toxic sea creatures.

Beyond Reality is organized for the McNay Art Museum by Lauren Thompson, Assistant Curator; and Liz Paris, Collections Manager. 

Funding is most generously provided by the Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation of 1992.