March 6, 2026 – July 31, 2026

Experiencing abstract art is an inside job. Legendary abstract artist Mark Rothko once said, "A painting is not a picture of experience. It is an experience". For artists, abstract paintings and sculptures are tangible expressions of thoughts, feelings, and experiences. For viewers, abstract art becomes an experience to reflect upon and be more aware of our own thoughts and feelings. All of these are our own. We may be drawn to certain works of art and not others, and our interpretations of abstract art may be different from its makers. Abstract art, a style that focuses less on the figure or on representing the physical observable world, encompasses many artistic histories and practices and has the capacity to hold space for many meanings and interpretations. In this way, abstract art reflects both the artist and the viewer. It acts as a window into the creative ideas and processes of the artist, and as mirrors to our own selves.

Abstraction and Ourselves is an exhibition that brings large-scale abstract paintings and glass sculpture together for the first time ever in an art museum in this country. We invite you to discover the variety of ways artists use abstraction, while simultaneously noticing your own perceptions and experiences. A shade of color may stir a memory. The color of light through a sculpture may bring a sense of wonder and awe, and certain shapes may flood you with metaphysical uncertainty or peaceful calm. A crisp vertical line may make you become alive and present. When we experience abstract art with a greater awareness of the intentions of artists and our own thoughts and feelings, we can become closer to ourselves and others.

Abstraction and Ourselves is organized by Jill Ahlberg Yohe, the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum's Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art. The exhibition was made possible by generous loans and support from Art Bridges. We also thank the Bockley Gallery and Weisman Art Museum at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.