Excellent options in visual art this week: An opening at the University of Houston Downtown, a new all-sculpture exhibit at the Art League, and a roundup of all-star Houston painters, picked by the new curator of modern and contemporary art at the Menil. Here's our rundown of places to see fresh artwork and, as always, enjoy some free-flowing booze.
George and Judith Gonzalez: "An Artistic Union" Detailed and realistic portraits, figurative works and still-lifes from Judith; painstakingly detailed still-lifes from George. Opens today; on view through September 28, The Jung Center, 5200 Montrose. (713) 524-8253.
Joseph Havel: Cockroach Poems / Jillian Conrad & Jeff Forster Sculpture by 2010 Texas Artist of the Year Joseph Havel--"collage poems" altered by glue-and-text-eating cockroaches. The all-sculpture show also features works in plywood, concrete and cardboard by Jillian Conrad, as well as clay and mixed media works by Jeff Foster. Opening reception Thursday, September 2, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Art League Houston, 1953 Montrose. 713-523-9530.
Melanie Crader: The Eula Project Crader's installation explores identity and was inspired by the discovery of a box belonging to her grandmother--20 years after her death. Opening reception Thursday, Septemmber 2, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.; on view through October 2, UH Downtown's O'Kane Gallery, 1 Main. 713-221-8042
New American Paintings Vol. 90 New curator of contemporary art at the Menil Collection, Toby Kamps, selected the Houston winners of the New American Paintings competition, represented in this exhibition. Standouts include Michael Bise, Garland Fielder and Howard Sherman. Opening reception Saturday, September 4, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.; on view through September 26, G Gallery, 301 E 11th. 713-869-4770.
