Constructing a Poetic Universe presents inventive works by some of the most significant Latin American artists of the 20th century as well as artists showing promise for the 21st century. The exhibition features nearly 60 works from 1945 to 2005 that incorporate unusual media such as cow bladder, ficus root, vinyl mattresses, and sea sponges. Among the major artists represented are Gego, Felix González-Torres, Guillermo Kuitca, Ana Mendieta, Mira Schendel, and Tunga.

The Halle Collection, comprising approximately 300 objects, is considered one of the finest American-owned private collections dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. The Halles’ definition of Latin American artists includes those born in Latin America and now working in the United States and Europe, as well as artists born in the United States and Europe now working in Latin America. The majority of the works in the collection are paintings and sculptures, but also well represented are installation, drawing, photography, video, and film. This exhibition mirrors the strengths of the Halle Collection, featuring primarily paintings and sculptures, with several works in other media.