A Stylish Reason to Explore West Texas
The Ellen Noël Art Museum in Odessa reopens with a glamorous Halston exhibition
ODESSA, TEXAS — The Ellen Noël Art Museum has officially reopened following a transformative, multi-year expansion and renovation, unveiling a striking new architectural presence alongside its premier exhibition, Halston: Inventing American Fashion. The reopening marks a new chapter for the museum and introduces West Texas as an unexpected destination for world-class fashion, art, and design. The Halston exhibition ends March 22, 2026 so a spring break road trip (or air flight!) is in order.
Originally opened in 1985, the museum has been reimagined through an ambitious architectural expansion designed by architect R.J. Lopez, transforming the building itself into a contemporary work of art. The renovation preserves much of the original structure while introducing light-filled galleries, fluid circulation, and a bold new public presence.
The Ellen Noël Art Museum is an accredited art museum and a proud Smithsonian Affiliate, providing enhanced access to national collections, exhibitions, and educational resources.
“The renovation project has been over 10 years in the making and in the construction phase for the past two years,” said Steve Patton, Building /Grounds Manager. “The completion of the project has resulted in an incredible facility that is a shining star in west Texas offering programs and exhibits that will be a destination point for people all over the world!”
A dramatic glass-walled entrance replaces the former brick façade, creating a transparent and welcoming threshold that connects the museum to the community. Vertical metal screening elements add texture and visual interest to the exterior, while subtle architectural lighting transforms the building into a luminous cultural landmark after dark. Inside, the museum unfolds with a sense of fluidity and discovery. Curving gallery walls and expansive sightlines guide visitors through the museum’s expanded spaces, with a dramatic central stair anchoring the interior, rising beneath a circular oculus skylight that bathes the interior in natural light. The design encourages exploration, allowing art, architecture, and light to interact seamlessly.
Sustainability and stewardship played a central role in the project, with approximately two-thirds of the original structure thoughtfully repurposed—honoring the museum’s history while minimizing environmental impact. Native landscaping and durable materials further ground the building in its West Texas setting, creating a sense of place that feels both rooted and forward-looking.
The result is a museum that is as compelling architecturally as it is culturally. The expanded Ellen Noël Art Museum stands as a powerful symbol of Odessa’s evolving creative identity—an architectural destination in its own right, and a must-see stop for travelers exploring the art, history, and renewed energy of West Texas.
“I am honored and thrilled to be a part of this legacy, especially during this special time,” said Lissa Noël Wagner, daughter of Ellen Noël and current President of the Museum Board. “We have an enthusiastic staff led by our Building /Grounds Manager and knowledgeably passionate Ambassador Steve Patton who is ready to welcome everyone to this truly fabulous Halston exhibit. It’s just amazing, featuring 75 mannequins dressed in Halston’s iconic creations.”
The museum’s reopening is anchored by Halston: Inventing American Fashion, a visually arresting and culturally significant exhibition celebrating the legendary American designer whose sleek, minimalist aesthetic redefined modern fashion. Best known for dressing icons such as Liza Minnelli, Bianca Jagger, Lauren Bacall, and Elizabeth Taylor, Halston became synonymous with effortless glamour, Studio 54 sophistication, and a distinctly American vision of elegance.
The exhibition features a rare and carefully curated selection of original Halston garments, showcasing the designer’s mastery of cut, fabric, and movement. From flowing ultrasuede silhouettes to impeccably draped eveningwear, the pieces on view illustrate how Halston revolutionized fashion by prioritizing comfort, confidence, and modern femininity—an approach that continues to influence designers today.
Set within the museum’s newly expanded galleries, the exhibition offers an immersive experience that blends fashion, culture, and design. Archival materials and interpretive storytelling provide context for Halston’s rise from Midwestern roots to international acclaim, while the architectural setting allows the garments to be experienced as sculptural works of art.
For fashion enthusiasts, design lovers, and cultural travelers—particularly those from Dallas and across Texas—the exhibition offers a compelling reason to plan a visit. Rarely seen outside major metropolitan museums, Halston: Inventing American Fashion brings a level of sophistication and glamour to West Texas that surprises and delights.
With free admission and a growing roster of exhibitions and programs, the Ellen Noël Art Museum invites visitors to experience a newly transformed cultural destination—where architecture, fashion, and art converge in the heart of West Texas.
“We are very fortunate to have a dedicated board committed to fulfilling the museum’s new potentials as a venue,” said Wagner. “It is really unique because our new building provides an ideal place for intimate events like a single classroom, to the entire building for weddings, anniversaries, and any parties in between! Most importantly, we are delighted to continue the museum’s free admission policy that makes all of our programming and exhibits accessible to everyone. We look forward to all of Texas seeing the new building and joining us for the exceptional experiences inside.”
The Halston exhibition ends March 22, 2026. Free Admission to museum.
Photos by Julian Mancha with Discover Odessa.