The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria is a contemporary art museum and sculpture park located in Austin, Texas. The museum is situated on the grounds of the historic Laguna Gloria estate, which was built in 1916 and was originally the home of Clara Driscoll, a prominent Texas philanthropist, and preservationist. Today, the museum’s mission is to engage visitors with contemporary art through exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria in detail.
History of Laguna Gloria Estate
The Laguna Gloria estate was built in 1916 by the architect Atlee B. Ayres for Clara Driscoll, who was an heiress to a prominent Texas family. Driscoll was known for her philanthropic work and her efforts to preserve Texas’s history and culture. She was also a writer and a suffragist who played a crucial role in the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which gave women the right to vote.
The estate was named after Laguna Gloria, a nearby lake that Driscoll admired. The property was designed in the Mediterranean Revival style and featured a main house, a boathouse, a studio, and several gardens. Driscoll used the estate as a retreat and as a place to host social and cultural events. Over the years, the estate was also used as a school, an art school, and a museum.
The Contemporary Austin
In 2013, The Contemporary Austin was formed through a merger of the Austin Museum of Art and Arthouse at the Jones Center. The new museum was created with the goal of expanding the reach and impact of contemporary art in Austin and beyond. The museum operates two locations: The Jones Center in downtown Austin and the Laguna Gloria estate.
The Laguna Gloria estate is home to the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park, which features works by contemporary artists from around the world. The park includes more than 14 acres of gardens, trails, and outdoor spaces, as well as the historic buildings on the estate.
The Laguna Gloria Experience
One of the most impressive aspects of Laguna Gloria is its location. The property’s beautiful gardens, sculptures, and lakefront views make it a perfect place to enjoy art and nature.
Visitors can explore the gardens, take a stroll along the waterfront, and discover the many works of art on display throughout the property. Additionally, Laguna Gloria offers a variety of educational programs, artist talks, and exhibitions, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience.
Art Exhibits
The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria features a diverse collection of modern art, including works by both established and emerging artists. The museum’s collection includes sculptures, paintings, installations, and mixed media pieces. Some of the museum’s most notable works include “Accumulated Afterthought” by Tom Friedman, “White Ghost” by Ursula von Rydingsvard, and “John” by Tony Tasset. The collection is continually evolving, with new works added regularly, providing visitors with something new to discover with each visit. See This Site
Art School
In addition to its museum offerings, Laguna Gloria also operates an art school, which provides educational opportunities for artists of all ages and skill levels. The school offers classes in a variety of media, including drawing, painting, ceramics, and printmaking.
The school’s curriculum is designed to help students develop their skills and creativity while also fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Additionally, the school hosts workshops, lectures, and other events, providing students with opportunities to learn from and interact with established artists.
Special Events
Throughout the year, The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria hosts a variety of special events, including concerts, performances, and film screenings. These events provide visitors with unique opportunities to experience the museum’s collection and its beautiful surroundings in new and exciting ways.
The museum also offers rental spaces for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions, providing visitors with a stunning and memorable backdrop for their celebrations.
Supporting the Arts
The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria is a nonprofit organization that relies on the support of its community to continue its mission. Donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations help fund the museum’s exhibitions, educational programs, and operations.
Additionally, the museum offers membership opportunities, providing members with exclusive access to special events, exhibitions, and other benefits.
Conclusion
The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria is a one-of-a-kind museum and art school that provides visitors with a unique and engaging experience. From its stunning location and impressive collection to its educational programs and special events, Laguna Gloria is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture.
Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or just looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, Laguna Gloria has something for everyone.
Important Information Need to Know
- Address: 3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States
- Website: http://www.thecontemporaryaustin.org/
- Phone: +15124588191
- Working Hours: Monday, Wednesday-Sunday (9 AM–3 PM), Tuesday (Closed)