An Art-World Insider’s Guide to Dallas

O ctober is an exciting time of year in the Dallas Fort Worth area: the weather is finally starting to cool, the social calendar is in full swing with events from philanthropic causes to football games and the local art world is buzzing with exhibition openings at museums and galleries.

At the center of it all is the charity auction TWO x TWO: For AIDS and Art from 1–21 October at The Rachofsky House. Featuring works by María Berrío, Lucy Bull and others, the auction benefits the American Foundation for AIDS Research (AmfAR) and the world-renowned Dallas Museum of Art, which Sotheby’s has been supporting for the past 23 years.

Whether you’re in town for the benefit auction or any other reason, here’s my list of places you won’t want to miss!

The past six months have seen an incredible influx of new restaurants in Dallas. Among my favorite newcomers are the steakhouse Stillwell’s, in the new Swexan hotel, as well as the continental brasserie Mister Charles in Uptown, where you can’t miss their soda fountain sundae! For lunch, Teak Tearoom inside The Conservatory is a must-visit.

A beautiful women’s boutique on West Lovers Lane, Cabana Canary is an absolute favorite of mine. Whether you’re looking for something everyday or something special for your next gala dress, they showcase designers from all over the world – and there’s always an explosion of color and style.

Nasher Sculpture Center boasts one of my favorite gardens in Dallas. An oasis from the hustle and bustle of downtown, the verdant environment is sprinkled with works by heavy hitters such as Richard Serra, Alexander Calder, George Segal and others. Grab a coffee or lunch at the museum cafe and enjoy!

The concentration of galleries in River Bend, Dallas’ design district, cannot be beat. Some of my favorite galleries have their homes here: Keijsers Koning, 12.26, Erin Cluley and Meliksetian Briggs.

Tucked above St. Anne’s restaurant in the Harwood district is The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection. This small museum showcasing a collection of samurai armor and other material packs a punch – it’s incredibly interesting and well worth the visit.

Clifton Club not only has delicious cocktails – and mocktails! – but their bar menu can’t be beat.

Year after year, the team curating TWO x TWO assembles an impressive and dynamic auction of more than 100 artworks mirroring and anticipating trends in the contemporary art world. I relish the opportunity to explore the offerings in this auction – it is a moment for discovery. Importantly, you do not have to attend the gala to visit the exhibition and bid on the works! There is something for every contemporary collector at every price point.

Past Auction

TWO x TWO For AIDS and Art

1–21 October 2023 | Dallas