Reflections, by celebrated Texas-native artist, brings striking visual presence to the Bush Center
Dallas, Texas — The George W. Bush Presidential Center announced today the installation of a new sculpture by artist renowned artist James Surls. Completed in August 2025, Reflections is thoughtfully integrated into the Bush Center’s natural and architectural surroundings.
James Surls, a proud Texas native, is widely recognized for creating large-scale sculptures crafted from wood, steel, and bronze. His work is known for its organic forms and raw, expressive aesthetic, which is reflected in his newest installation at the Bush Center.
“Having the opportunity to make something for a space like the Bush Center…it’s a real honor and challenge to get to do it,” said Surls.
The sculpture is a gift from Shirley and Bill McIntyre, whose support made this installation possible.
“We are proud to welcome Reflections by James Surls to the Bush Center and are grateful to Shirley and Bill McIntyre for their generous contribution,” said Rachel Mabry, Vice President of Development at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. “We’re excited to share this beautiful piece with the many guests and supporters who visit the Bush Center.”
Carved from cedar trees native to Surls’ home in Splendora, Texas, the artist named the sculpture Reflections to represent the Bush Center’s role as a place for the exchange of ideas. The sculpture has two sides, each facing opposite directions, symbolizing two perspectives in dialogue, with a central “reflection point” where front and back – or differing views – meet.
Surls’ work is displayed in various public museum collections including the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum of Modern Art, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, Dallas Museum of Art, Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Meadows Museum at SMU, and many others.
Reflections is installed in the Cross Hall inside the Bush Center, a space open to the public during special events in the adjacent auditorium.
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George W. Bush Presidential Center
Located on the SMU campus in Dallas, Texas, the George W. Bush Presidential Center is a nonpartisan institution advancing the timeless values of freedom, opportunity, accountability, and compassion. The Bush Center comprises the George W. Bush Presidential Museum and the George W. Bush Institute, a solution-oriented policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies through policy solutions and public engagement. The Bush Center also houses the George W. Bush Presidential Library, operated by the National Archives and Records Administration, which provides access to official documents and artifacts from the George W. Bush Administration. Learn more about the Bush Center at bushcenter.org.
