Discovering Home: The Transformative Art of Jess Dugan at the Modern Art Museum

In a world where diverse family structures often remain in the shadows, artist Jess Dugan shines a light on the beauty and complexity of queer and nonbinary parenthood. Dugan, who identifies as both a queer and nonbinary artist and parent, has crafted a narrative that resonates deeply with those who may not see their own experiences reflected in mainstream media. Now, in a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Diaries of Home,” three generations of Dugan’s family are brought to life at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

About the Exhibition

Opening on November 17, 2024, and running through February 2, 2025, “Diaries of Home” features the work of 13 talented women and nonbinary artists exploring the themes of home, family, and identity. This exhibition seeks to redefine what home means to each individual, particularly through the lens of those who have historically been marginalized.

• Opening Date: November 17, 2024
• Closing Date: February 2, 2025
• Location: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth
• Admission: Free on Fridays and for visitors under 18; $10-$16 for all others. Tickets are half price on Sundays.

The Artist’s Journey

Dugan has been working with photography for approximately 20 years, later expanding their practice to include video. “I’ve always used my art practice to understand myself and my place in the world,” Dugan reflects. They emphasize the importance of time in their work, noting that this project began in 2012, with a conscious decision to wait a decade before presenting it to the public.

Dugan describes their artistic journey as a personal narrative of parenthood and identity, stating, “This is the narrative about my very particular journey to parenthood and all of the parts of my identity that get brought into that.” Their work not only represents queer parenthood but also highlights the complexities of navigating parenting as a nonbinary individual, grappling with language and societal expectations.

What to Expect

The exhibition includes a range of multimedia works that invite viewers to question traditional notions of family and home. Notably, the exhibition features:

• Nudity and Mature Themes: The exhibition includes works by renowned photographer Sally Mann, known for her controversial yet impactful depictions of childhood and family life.
• Interactive Installations: Visitors will encounter thought-provoking installations that juxtapose the fullness of home life with its emptiness, prompting reflections on what home truly means.
• Historical Context: A series of large-scale silhouettes by Fort Worth artist Letitia Huckaby showcases the lineage of a formerly enslaved couple, Charley and Kate Thorp, whose contributions to the community have only recently been recognized.

Join the Conversation

This exhibition is not just an artistic endeavor; it is a cultural commentary that challenges viewers to reassess their definitions of family and home. As you engage with the artwork, consider the narratives that surround you and the stories that remain untold.

What do you think?

• How does art influence our understanding of family and home?
• In what ways do you believe queer representation in art can impact societal views?
• Do you think the inclusion of nudity and mature themes in art should be more widely accepted?
• What stories do you feel are still missing in discussions about family in contemporary art?
• Can art serve as a form of activism in promoting underrepresented narratives?

“Diaries of Home” promises to be a compelling exploration of identity, representation, and the evolving concept of family. Don’t miss the chance to witness this transformative exhibition at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.