The Nasher Sculpture Center is named for Raymond and Patsy Nasher who travelled around the world collecting pieces for over 50 years. The couple decided to share their private collection with the world, and opened the Center in 2003. The building is as much a work of art as the sculptures contained within – its sleek, modern style, surrounded by tranquil gardens, shows the pieces off at their best. Designed by award-winning Italian architect, Renzo Piano, the Center acts as a haven of peace and calm in busy central Dallas.
The Nashers’ collection includes many major pieces of international art here from renowned sculptures, including Picasso's Head of Woman, rugged bronzes by Willem de Kooning and Henri Matisse’s sleek nudes. Outside you’ll find more to admire, as the gardens contain around 25 of the collection’s larger pieces at any one time, such as Mark di Suvero’s iconic steel structure, Proverb. Get up close and personal with the huge steel curves of American artist Richard Serra's piece. My Curves Are Not Mad – one of the garden's most impressive pieces. The pieces from the core collection change regularly, and the Center plays host to many visiting exhibitions, so you’re always guaranteed to see something new when you visit.
Whether you’re into art or not, the beautiful gardens are the perfect place to relax in good weather. When you need a bite to eat, head to the Nasher Café, which offers reasonably priced meals, nestled amongst the sculptures.
The Center is open daily except Mondays and national holidays. As part of Dallas’s flourishing arts district, it is well priced for a private museum, and you can buy a joint pass for the Dallas Museum of Art at a discounted price. The sculpture centre is adjacent to the art museum.
