Immerse yourself in Houston’s latest public art installation, Folly, created by Mexico-based, Cuban-American artist Jorge Pardo in the heart of University of Houston’s Wilhelmina’s Grove through December 2023.
Inspired by a garden folly—a decorative structure meant for delight rather than function—Folly blurs the lines between art, architecture, and design.
From the outside, the work appears to be a simple building; once inside, visitors are immersed in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and a variety of materials and scales.
Pardo’s piece features laser-cut, hand-painted wall panels, which are complemented by the artist’s signature sculptural chandeliers. Folly is meant to be appreciated slowly, over time, as its overall experience changes with the shifting sun and lighting conditions.
Opening Weekend Events in October 2022
- Folly Public Opening & Housewarming at Wilhelmina’s Grove at UH Main Campus | Wednesday, October 19, 2022 | FREE – Enjoy light bites and drinks while exploring Jorge Pardo’s installation in the heart of the University’s of Houston’s arts district. 4pm to 6pm.
- Liminal: A Conversation with Jorge Pardo at Dudley Recital Hall at UH Main Campus | Thursday, October 20, 2022 | FREE – Hear directly from the Mexico-based, Cuban-American artist about his work and the creation of Folly in a one-hour group conversation. 5pm.
- Friday Focus Tour: Jorge Pardo’s Folly with María Gaztambide at UH Main Campus | Friday, October 21, 2022 | FREE – Join a one-hour tour of the installation led by Maria C. Gaztambide, executive director and chief curator at Public Art UHS. Noon.
Jorge Pardo’s Folly at UH Main Campus
- Exhibition Dates: Wednesday, October 19, 2022 though December 2023
- Times: Daily from 9am to 6pm
- Location: Wilhelmina’s Grove next to Dudley Recital Hall on the University of Houston main campus.
- Admission: Free. Learn more.
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