Diaries of Home

Diaries of Home
November 17, 2024–February 2, 2025
Diaries of Home features works by women and nonbinary artists who explore the multilayered concepts of family, community, and home. The exhibition features a diverse, multi-generational group of artists with a variety of photographic processes, ranging from printed images to slides and video. Patty Chang, Jess T. Dugan, LaToya Ruby Frazier, Nan Goldin, Debbie Grossman, Letitia Huckaby, Deana Lawson, Laura Letinsky, Sally Mann, Arlene Mejorado, Catherine Opie, Laurie Simmons, and Carrie Mae Weems use themselves and others as center points to explore various social relations in and outside of the home. The resulting imagery gives shape to Diaries of Home, capturing the psychological interiority, complex family dynamics, and inconsequential and profound moments of daily routine—all aspects that compose a life’s journey.

Artists Speak
In-gallery discussion with artists featured in Diaries of Home
November 15, 6pm
Registration required
Join us for an exclusive in-gallery talk and tour at the Modern, featuring four artists whose works are on view in the special exhibition, Diaries of Home: Jess T. Dugan, Letitia Huckaby, Laura Letinsky, and Arlene Mejorado. This special event offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the artists in an intimate setting, as they share personal insights into their work and the themes explored in the exhibition. Diaries of Home delves into the concept of home as both a physical and emotional space, revealing deeply personal narratives, cultural reflections, and intimate memories. Using the vernacular of documentary photography, the artists examine moments of affection, family, and struggle, creating images that feel relatable and commonplace. At the same time, these images challenge the idea of truth by introducing fiction, drama, or magnifying everyday moments.

During the tour, attendees will hear first-hand stories from the artists about the inspiration behind each piece, offering a deeper understanding of their creative processes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, this in-gallery talk provides a unique way to experience the powerful, evocative works in Diaries of Home. Don’t miss the chance to engage in this thoughtful exploration of what home means to these artists.

Exhibition lecture series
December 13, 6pm
Free admission 
Join us for a compelling conversation featuring artist Letitia Huckaby and Texas Christian University (TCU) doctoral candidate Marcellis Perkins, moderated by writer and curator Johnica Rivers. The discussion will explore Huckaby’s photographs in the special exhibition Diaries of Home. Huckaby was selected to create a pair of portraits depicting Charley and Kate Thorp, a formerly enslaved couple who played a crucial role at AddRan Male and Female College (later renamed TCU) from its founding in 1873. The Portrait Project tells TCU’s story through diverse portraiture around the campus that commemorates historically marginalized and underrepresented members of the university community.

Since no known photographs of the Thorps exist, Huckaby photographed their living descendants to craft silhouette portraits that honor the couple’s enduring legacy. The resulting series, A Living Requiem, is a collection of these descendant photographs, on display in Diaries of Home. Rivers will lead a conversation on the Thorp family’s impact and Huckaby’s unique approach to capturing their history through art.

BIG PHOTO Adult Studio
December 11 and 18, January 8–29
Wednesdays, 6–9pm
Registration required
This six-week course explores fundamental and alternative approaches to photography while considering the special exhibition Diaries of Home. Over the course of BIG PHOTO, professional artists Holly Gray, Jamie Acker, and Ari Brielle lead classes through presentations, thoughtful discussions, and engaging activities relating to their respective practices and works seen throughout the exhibition. Additionally, this course will feature an exclusive tour of the museum’s photography collection. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, this adult studio course offers a unique opportunity to expand your skills, draw inspiration from the works on view, and contribute to the vibrant dialogue of contemporary art. All materials are provided.