Waltz Across Texas

with Artist Gail Wendorf

LMFA Brings Texas Dance Hall Culture to Life in New Exhibition

Longview Museum of Fine Arts (LMFA) presents Gail Wendorf: Waltz Across Texas through February 20, 2027. The exhibition brings together Wendorf’s paintings inspired by historic dance halls across Texas. She traveled more than 75,000 miles researching dozens of venues, including Gruene Hall, Luckenbach, the Broken Spoke, and Longview’s own Reo Palm Isle. 

The series was previously exhibited at the Texas State Capitol in the office of then–First Lady Laura Bush. 

Through expressive color, movement, and light, Wendorf captures not simply the places themselves, but the music, dancers, and communal spirit that have made Texas dance halls enduring cultural landmarks. 

Wendorf says, “My work helps the viewer be drawn into the emotionally charged atmosphere, living the landscape, the music and the musician’s passion. I am excited to be bringing this exhibition back to Texas to a whole new audience.” 

Wendorf began her studies at Southern Methodist University, where her father, a noted archaeology professor, greatly influenced her career. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in Archaeological Illustration from California State University. Her career took her from Texas to California and Scotland, where she lived and painted for many years and exhibited at venues including the Scottish Parliament. Wendorf now lives and works in Taos, New Mexico. 

LMFA Curator of Exhibitions & Collections Derek Frazier said, “Part of Gail’s genius is the way her contemporary paintings echo the expressive color, movement, and emotional intensity found in the work of artists such as Gauguin, Van Gogh, Munch, and Ensor. These connections place the Texas dance hall within a much broader art-historical conversation.” 

LMFA is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday–Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday or by appointment. 

Learn more on lmfa.org or call (903) 753-8103.