Art of the Game offers comprehensive perspectives from artists around the world, examining both the experience of playing and the phenomenon of spectatorship. Visitors are invited to explore the history of the world’s most universal game and its deeply rooted connections to cultures across continents, each interpreting the sport in distinct ways.
The exhibition spans centuries, with works referencing one of the earliest documented forms of the sport, known as cuju. Themes of identity are illustrated, as artists explore ideas of femininity and masculinity, consumerism, colonialism, documentation, cultural deconstruction, pivotal historical moments in soccer, and the legendary players that continue to inspire generations.
Fabrics of Fanatics Copy:
In partnership with the National Soccer Hall of Fame, the Arlington Museum of Art presents Fabrics of Fanatics, a collaborative community soccer scarf installation project in our small community gallery space in celebration of the 2026 World Cup. This exhibition will feature hundreds of scarves from members of the community, highlighting the artistry of match-day scarves and team appreciation.
If you are interested in having your scarves be a part of this community installation, please refer to the museum’s website for more information. . Scarves will be returned to their owners after the exhibit, beginning August 4, 2026. All scarves must be picked up by their owners from the museum no later than August 31, 2026.
Atlas of Champions copy:
In collaboration with the University of Texas at Arlington’s Special Collections, the Arlington Museum of Art will showcase a selection of maps highlighting the playing nations in the 2026 World Cup. The exhibition will feature detailed historical maps depicting the host nations and the teams represented in the World Cup matches in Arlington.
