“New Art in Austin: 20 to Watch”

Provocative and forward-thinking work — that’s what you’ll get at “New Art in Austin: 20 to Watch.” Presented by DiverseWorks, “New Art” showcases up-and-coming Central Texas artists including Baseera Khan, Kurt Mueller and Alyson Fox. Narrowing the hundreds of artists working in and around the Austin area to just 20 was difficult, but DW’s Diane Barber says she thinks they got it right. “We wanted to have artists that are working in the most innovative ways,” she says. “We also wanted to have a broad range of approaches to the visual arts, and I think we got that. And that’s one of the things that make it exciting. There’s so much to consider and so many different approaches. Something that’s instantly noticeable is the vibrancy of the colors. It’s really an energetic show in that way.” Houston audiences have come to expect the unexpected from DiverseWorks, but Barber says there may still be a few surprises. Jill Pangallo, a performance and visual artist, contributed an installation built around herself and a doll made in her image. Noon to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Through June 13. 1117 East Freeway. For information, call 713-223-8346 or visit www.diverseworks.org. Free.

Wednesdays-Saturdays. Starts: May 1. Continues through June 13, 2009