One of Austin’s newest galleries, Dimmitt Contemporary Art, is gearing up to host their upcoming exhibition by Texan artist, Kristin Moore.
In her debut solo exhibition at Dimmitt, Dallas-based Moore offers a poignant reflection on the landscapes, landmarks, and cultural touchstones that define Texas. Through her paintings, Moore captures the essence of her home state while underscoring the importance of preserving its history and identity. Her vivid depictions of Texas vistas and icons evoke a deep sense of place, inviting viewers to consider the stories these spaces hold and the significance of safeguarding them for future generations.
Titled “Home State” and opening on March 1, this exhibition is a love letter to Texas, rendered in Moore’s signature cinematic style. From the glowing neon of an H.E.B. sign to the quiet majesty of a Marfa sunrise, her work elevates the everyday landmarks that shape Texas’ cultural and natural heritage. Each painting serves as a visual archive, preserving not only the physical beauty of these spaces but also the emotional connections tied to them.
Moore’s exploration of Texas history is deeply personal. The exhibition centers on two cities integral to her story: Houston, where she was born, and Austin, where she attended college. Houston’s rhythm shaped her childhood with iconic experiences like early mornings at Shipley’s Donuts and late nights in Whataburger parking lots. In Austin, she found a new chapter of creativity, inspired by the city’s music, art, and food scenes. These memories form the backbone of her work, offering a glimpse into how personal histories intertwine with the collective narrative of a place.
For Moore, preserving Texas history is about more than nostalgia. Her paintings bridge the gap between realism and memory, blending the physical and emotional landscapes of her home state. Moore draws inspiration from legendary cinematographers like John Alcott and Wes Anderson, transforming Texas landmarks into cinematic moments, and urging viewers to look beyond the surface.
The absence of human figures in her paintings allows the landscapes themselves to tell their stories, evoking a sense of solitude and timelessness. From the roadside Buc-ee’s sign to the endless Texas skies, these images invite viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the places they call home and the importance of preserving them for future generations.
As Texas evolves, exhibitions like “Home State” serve as vital reminders to honor and protect its rich heritage. Moore’s work ensures these places and their stories endure, celebrating the profound impact of Texas—its cities, skies, and roads—on both personal and collective identity.
See this exhibition at Dimmitt Contemporary on March 1 – 29, 2025. Visit dimmittcontemporaryart.com for more information.
Our arts contributor, Nicholas Campbell, is the founder of Campbell Art Advisory and Campbell Art Collective. Having worked as an independent art advisor in the United Kingdom since 2010, Nick moved to Austin with his wife, Kelly, in 2022, and now lends our city his inimitable taste in art.
