Story perspectives

UNT shuts controversial sculpture exhibit after legislative threat

7/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Internal texts show UNT officials shut the Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez exhibition to avoid Texas legislators' criticism.
President Harrison Keller and former Provost Michael McPherson texted, with McPherson urging removal.
The show displayed resin popsicle sculptures with handcuffs, replica firearms and rosaries.
Arts faculty signed an unsigned open letter protesting the closure.
Graduating seniors relocated their graduation exhibition to independent venues in Denton and Dallas.

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Story summary

Internal texts show UNT officials shut the Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez exhibition to avoid Texas legislators' criticism.
President Harrison Keller and former Provost Michael McPherson texted, with McPherson urging removal.
The show displayed resin popsicle sculptures with handcuffs, replica firearms and rosaries.
Arts faculty signed an unsigned open letter protesting the closure.
Graduating seniors relocated their graduation exhibition to independent venues in Denton and Dallas.