The Contemporary Austin

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, The Contemporary Austin is a leading destination for contemporary art, merging innovative exhibitions with the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Born from the 2011 merger of the Austin Museum of Art (AMOA) and Arthouse at the Jones Center, the institution operates two vibrant campuses: the urban Jones Center on Congress Avenue and the scenic Laguna Gloria estate on Lake Austin. Together, these sites embody Austin’s creative spirit, offering diverse experiences that range from thought-provoking exhibitions and outdoor sculpture parks to robust educational programs and historic architecture.

This guide provides essential information for planning your visit, including up-to-date visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, amenities, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a local seeking cultural enrichment or a visitor exploring Austin's historical sites, The Contemporary Austin promises an inspiring encounter with art and the city’s evolving identity. For the latest details and exhibition updates, consult The Contemporary Austin’s official website.

Historical Background

Origins and Evolution

The Contemporary Austin’s roots stretch back to 1911 with the Texas Fine Arts Association (TFAA), evolving through the establishment of Laguna Gloria Art Museum in 1961, and the later development of the Jones Center as a downtown art space. In 2011, a strategic merger unified AMOA and Arthouse at the Jones Center, creating The Contemporary Austin—a dual-campus institution that combines the historic charm of Laguna Gloria with the modern vibrancy of the Jones Center (The Contemporary Austin).

• Laguna Gloria: Home to the Driscoll Villa (built in 1916 by Clara Driscoll), Laguna Gloria offers a unique “art-in-nature” experience and is listed on local, state, and national historic registers.
• Jones Center: Originally a 19th-century commercial building, the Jones Center has undergone significant renovations, including the addition of the Moody Rooftop, establishing itself as a downtown hub for contemporary art (Guide to Austin Architecture).

Dual Campuses: Jones Center and Laguna Gloria

Jones Center

Located at 700 Congress Avenue, the Jones Center is an architectural landmark that houses rotating exhibitions, large-scale installations, and the Moody Rooftop—a favored spot for events and panoramic downtown views. Interpretive signage, digital guides, and QR codes enhance the visitor experience, providing deeper insights into the artworks and artists (The Contemporary Austin History).

Laguna Gloria

Situated at 3809 West 35th Street, Laguna Gloria encompasses 18 acres of gardens and trails along Lake Austin. The Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park features over 20 outdoor works by renowned artists, seamlessly blending contemporary art with Texas’ natural beauty. The historic Driscoll Villa serves as an exhibition space, while the Art School at Laguna Gloria offers workshops and classes year-round (The Contemporary Austin PDF).

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation

• Jones Center: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (open until 8 p.m. Thursdays); closed Mondays.
• Laguna Gloria: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; closed Mondays.

Tickets and Admission

• General Admission: $15
• Seniors (65+), Students, Military: $10
• Children under 12: Free
• Members: Free; enjoy additional benefits such as event invitations and shop/café discounts.
• Free Admission: Thursdays at both locations.
• Admission to one location grants free entry to the other within seven days (The Contemporary Austin Visit).
• Tickets can be purchased online or at the admissions desk.

Directions and Parking

• Jones Center: 700 Congress Avenue, downtown Austin. Paid parking available in nearby garages and metered street spots. Accessible via Capital Metro bus routes.
• Laguna Gloria: 3809 West 35th Street. Free on-site parking; limited street parking. Rideshare is recommended during busy periods.

Must-See Exhibits and Experiences

Signature Installations and Sculpture Park

• Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park: Outdoor sculptures by artists like Ai Weiwei, Ursula von Rydingsvard, and Tom Friedman, set along accessible trails.
• Driscoll Villa: Historic Mediterranean-style villa housing contemporary exhibitions (Austin Insider Blog).

Upcoming and Current Exhibitions (2024–2025)

• Raven Halfmoon: "Flags of Our Mothers" (Jan 31 – Aug 3, 2025): Large-scale sculptures exploring Indigenous identity across both campuses.
• HOST: Tenant of Culture (Jan 31 – Aug 3, 2025): Installations critiquing the fashion industry’s impact.
• Jiab Prachakul: "Sweet Solitude" (Spring 2025): Portraits reflecting themes of identity and migration.
• Carl Cheng: "Nature Never Loses" (Sep 6 – Dec 8, 2024): Works exploring technology and sustainability (The Contemporary Austin Exhibitions).
• Manik Raj Nakra Mural: Vibrant downtown mural on the Jones Center’s facade.

Moody Rooftop

The Moody Rooftop at the Jones Center is a highlight, featuring site-specific installations with spectacular city views, and hosting events like film screenings and performances (The Contemporary Austin PDF).

Public Programs and Events

• Artist talks, opening receptions, and family art-making days (Second Saturdays at Laguna Gloria).
• Interactive workshops and guided tours, including free guided tours on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings (The Contemporary Austin Events).

Educational and Community Engagement

Art School at Laguna Gloria

One of the largest museum-affiliated art schools in the U.S., the Art School offers classes for all ages in painting, ceramics, digital arts, and more. Nearly 5,000 students enroll annually, with scholarships supporting accessibility (The Contemporary Austin Art School).

Community Outreach

The museum’s education department collaborates with Austin Independent School District to align with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. Programs include docent-led school tours, artist mentorship, and teacher professional development (The Contemporary Austin – For Schools).

Commitment to DEIA

Continuous diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) work ensures The Contemporary Austin is a welcoming space for all audiences, with ongoing evaluation and adaptation of programs and resources (The Contemporary Austin – Mission, Vision & Values).

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

• Café Spread & Co. (Laguna Gloria): Offers coffee, light meals, snacks, beer, and wine.
• Gift Shop: Art books, merchandise, and souvenirs available at Laguna Gloria.
• Facilities: Restrooms, water stations, lockers, and complimentary sunscreen/bug spray.
• Accessibility: ADA-compliant routes, accessible parking, ramps, and sensory bookmarks at both locations. Staff can assist with special needs (The Contemporary Austin PDF).
• Visitor Safety: Please stay on marked paths and refrain from touching or climbing on artworks.

Nearby Austin Historical Sites and Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring other notable sites:

• Mount Bonnell: Iconic overlook with panoramic city and river views.
• Mayfield Park & Nature Preserve: Tranquil gardens, koi ponds, and historic cottages with peacocks.
• Texas Military Forces Museum: In-depth look at Texas military history. All are a short drive from Laguna Gloria and complement your cultural itinerary (Travel Realist).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Both campuses are open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Jones Center until 8 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays.

Q: How much is admission?
A: General admission is $15; seniors, students, and military $10; children under 12 are free. Free admission on Thursdays.

Q: Are both locations included with one ticket?
A: Yes, a single ticket provides access to both campuses within seven days.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, free guided tours are offered regularly; group tours can be scheduled in advance.

Q: Is The Contemporary Austin accessible?
A: Yes, both locations are ADA-compliant with accessible paths, restrooms, and resources.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Paid parking is available near the Jones Center; free onsite parking at Laguna Gloria.

Q: Where can I find updated event and exhibition information?
A: The Contemporary Austin’s official website.

Discover More

Immerse yourself in Austin’s dynamic art scene at The Contemporary Austin. Plan ahead by purchasing tickets online, reviewing current exhibitions, and checking for special events. Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for digital guides and interactive content.

• Jones Center: 700 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701 | 512-453-5312
• Laguna Gloria: 3809 West 35th Street, Austin, TX 78703 | 512-458-8191
• Instagram: @ContemporaryATX
• Facebook: facebook.com/TheContemporaryAustin
• Hashtag: #ContemporaryATX

For additional insights on Austin’s historical sites and more art experiences, explore related articles and resources online.