The Nasher Sculpture Centre is housed in a sleek, modern building surrounded by tranquil gardens. It was opened in 2003 to showcase the private collection of its founders, Raymond and Patsy Nasher. The couple had been collecting pieces for 50 years during their travels throughout the world and in 1997 decided to self-finance the $70 million centre. They wanted it to be a peaceful retreat within the busy downtown area. Designed by the awarded Italian architect Renzo Piano, the 55,000-square-foot (5109-square-metre) building is designed to receive maximum natural light with views across the garden.
You'll find many major pieces of international art here, from Picasso's Head of Woman, to works by Henri Matisse and Willem de Kooning. Venture outside to view Mark di Suvero’s iconic steel structure, Proverb.
If you're not an art buff, the two-acre (8,094-square-metre) garden, dotted with 25 sculptures, several water features and 170 trees, is a nice place to spend an afternoon with the family or a good book, particularly if the weather is favourable. There are often large, dramatic pieces that you can observe at close quarters. Be sure to walk between the huge steel curves of American artist Richard Serra's piece. My Curves Are Not Mad, at 14 feet (four metres) high and 44 feet (13 metres) long, it is one of the garden's most impressive pieces.
When you need a rest or a bite to eat, the garden includes the Nasher Cafe, which offers reasonably priced meals and is nestled amongst the sculptures.
The Nasher Sculpture Centre has an admission fee which includes entrance to the interior galleries, the sculpture garden and special exhibitions. Children enter for free. The centre is open daily except Mondays and national holidays. Check the official website for specific opening times.
