2009 Texas Biennial in Austin showcases 70+ artists across city venues with mixed results

The Texas Biennial of 2009 took place in Austin from March 6 to April 11, showcasing the work of over 70 artists. Michael Duncan, the guest curator, honored tribute artist Kelly Fearing by featuring his 1955 artwork 'The Place of Tobias and the Angel.' Additionally, two juried exhibitions—'Eye to Eye' at the Mexican American Cultural Center and 'DIY: Double Wide' at Women & Their Work—displayed open-call entries. Four solo shows were presented: William Cannings at Okay Mountain, Lee Baxter Davis at The Pump Project, Jayne Lawrence at MASS Gallery, and Kelli Vance at Big Medium. Outdoor initiatives, co-curated by Risa Puleo, continued until December 31. Despite its goal to promote Texas art, the event encountered issues with representation and thematic depth. Notable pieces included Christa Mares's 'Emprendendora Mujer' and Ivan Lozano's 'Paul (For Peter and Luke).'