UPDATE: Due to popular demand, "The Art of the Brick" exhibition has been extended until Labor Day, September 2, the Perot Museum announced on July 29. Hours and admission prices remain the same.
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An elaborate display of some of the world's most revered art works — constructed only of Legos — will have a grand unveiling soon in Dallas. "The Art of the Brick" exhibition, which uses millions of Legos to recreate artistic masterpieces, will make its Texas debut at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science on February 23.
Think Van Gogh's Starry Night in Legos. Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring in Legos. Michelangelo’s David sculpture in Legos. (A few questions about that one, cough cough.)
One new work is being constructed just for Dallas: an original interpretation of the city's signature winged horse, Pegasus, which will greet guests as they enter the museum.
The display is the work of contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, and it's "designed to inspire ingenuity and creativity with original pieces and re-imagined versions of some of history’s most famous works of art," the Perot says in a release.
“We are thrilled to showcase Nathan Sawaya’s thought-provoking works of art — from masterpiece renditions and original pieces, to a creative interpretation of Dallas’ iconic Pegasus,” says Linda Silver, the Eugene McDermott chief executive officer of the Perot, in the release. “Lego bricks are a beloved learn-through-play staple in so many children’s lives. The exhibition elevates a classic toy into the interesting realm of art and science resulting in something meaningful, educational and awe-inspiring.”
The exhibition, which is touring globally, has caused a sensation in cities like Ottawa and Pittsburgh. CNN has hailed it a Top 10 "Global Must See Exhibition."
One fan favorite among exhibit-goers in other cities has been Yellow, a life-size sculpture of a man ripping his chest open with thousands of yellow Lego bricks cascading from the cavity. (Yellow has gained pop-culture fame appearing on fashion labels, album covers, and even in Lady Gaga’s music video “G.U.Y.”)
The art works have a backstory that's both wildly interesting and completely relatable. Sawaya was once a corporate lawyer in New York City, who indulged his inner child by creating with Lego bricks as a way to de-stress every night. With encouragement from his friends and family, he quit his job and followed his passion to become a full-time artist. (He let his legal license expire.)
In case the display inspires creativity on the spot, there will be a hands-on creative space called The Science of the Brick. And a special, multimedia gallery will showcase a collection of LEGO-brick infused photography produced with award-winning photographer Dean West.
Presented in English and Spanish, the exhibition runs through August 18, 2019, and requires a surcharge for members and non-members. For hours, admission, and special related events, visit the Perot Museum's website.
Whistler's Arrangement in Grey & Black No.1 in Legos.
