Art Review: Van Gogh’s Olive-Grove Paintings in Dallas

I’m in Dallas and New Orleans this week for a memorial service and museum visits. Van Gogh and the Olive Groves at the Dallas Museum of Art was among the top attractions for me, art-wise. Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) is well-trodden territory, but no one has done an exhibition of his olive-tree paintings, so Dallas’s is a rare first. It’s not big — about 20 paintings — but it’s one treasure after another. It’s a sensitively done, poignant show that weaves together the best art, biography, and art conservation.

I think it’s worth a trip to Dallas, especially for those many New York curators who, judging from some of the things I’ve seen in the past year, have forgotten how to do a compelling show. Time in Dallas is always time well spent in any event. It’s a great culture town, with good museums and a thriving opera company. When I’m there, I never miss the oozing puddles of kvetch, angst, and self-importance that can make Manhattan an eye-roller. Texans are positive and entrepreneurial. They are naturally inquisitive and don’t think they’ve cornered the market on experience or knowledge.

About the Author

Brian T. Allen

Brian T. Allen is National Review’s art critic.

I’m in Dallas and New Orleans this week for a memorial service and museum visits. Van Gogh and the Olive Groves at the Dallas Museum of Art was among the top attractions for me, art-wise. Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) is well-trodden territory, but no one has done an exhibition of his olive-tree paintings, so Dallas’s is a rare first. It’s not big — about 20 paintings — but it’s one treasure after another. It’s a sensitively done, poignant show that weaves together the best art, biography, and art conservation.

I think it’s worth a trip to Dallas, especially for those many New York curators who, judging from some of the things I’ve seen in the past year, have forgotten how to do a compelling show. Time in Dallas is always time well spent in any event. It’s a great culture town, with good museums and a thriving opera company. When I’m there, I never miss the oozing puddles of kvetch, angst, and self-importance that can make Manhattan an eye-roller. Texans are positive and entrepreneurial. They are naturally inquisitive and don’t think they’ve cornered the market on experience or knowledge.