“A former Dallas Power & Light building. Can you believe it?” I ask. The Power Station stands before us a testament to adaptive reuse. This isn’t your typical gallery.
This not-for-profit contemporary art space in Exposition Park has a rich history. It began its life in 1920 as a Dallas Power & Light building. Janelle and Alden Pinnell had a vision. They transformed it into The Power Station in 2011. The building’s raw architecture became the canvas.
The Power Station isn’t just about showcasing art. It’s a vibrant hub. It hosts large-scale exhibitions. These exhibitions complement the building’s industrial character. For each international exhibition The Power Station produces a publication. Think limited edition. A first edition of 1000 copies. For the Drip Event exhibit they even produced a double LP. It’s a record recorded at Issue Project Room. The band was formed specifically for the exhibition.
The Power Station also offers a summer program. It focuses on research discussions and displays. Past programs included a video art survey. It spanned four decades. Another program explored Amarillo Texas and its cultural significance. It included art works artifacts and screenings. The building even includes an apartment. Artists can live there while creating their installations. The building and garden blend seamlessly. Crisp architectural elements are softened by lush plants.
From Oscar Tuazon’s inaugural exhibition Die in 2011 to more recent shows The Power Station has consistently pushed boundaries. It presents work from both established and emerging artists. It’s a place where art thrives. It is a place where the past meets the present and the future. The Power Station is a Dallas gem. A place where history breathes creativity.