Upon first glance, San Antonio–hailing Dario Robleto’s work appears to have little significance beyond the “conceptual” label. Braided strands of hair. Buttons. It’s the sort of stuff that draws incredulous guffaws from some people: You call that art? But look closer. The pieces in “Alloy of Love” (through Sept. 1) require conscientious effort on Robleto’s part. The “hair” is actually made of stretched and curled audio-tape recordings of soldiers’ voices. The buttons required Robleto to melt Billie Holiday records and spray-paint the remnants. His new show reflects on American history and popular culture—specifically music and war—through these often astounding material transformations. Frye Art Museum, 704 Terry Ave., 622-9250, www.fryemuseum.org. Free. Noon–5 p.m. ERIKA HOBART

May 26-Sept. 1, 12-5 p.m., 2008