Art lovers will enjoy the beautiful displays of art created by Texan artists at both of the Austin Museum of Art locations, now known as the AMOA-Arthouse. During your stay in Austin, head downtown and stop in at the Jones Center on Congress Avenue. It is open Tuesday through Saturday. Visitors can also go northwest of town—roughly 10 kilometres or a 15-minute drive—and enjoy the Laguna Gloria, a former residence and historic site on Lake Austin where the museum has its roots. The galleries at Laguna Gloria are open Tuesday through Saturday also, but the grounds are open to visitors seven days a week.
In 1916, Laguna Gloria was built by Hal Sevier, a local newspaper editor, and his wife, Clara Driscoll. The Mediterranean-style villa was gifted by Driscoll to the Texas Fine Arts Association so that the people of Texas could view and appreciate art. Her gift has enriched the lives of many, including those far past the borders of Texas.
Both the indoors and outdoors at Laguna Gloria are a treat for visitors. The lovely landscaped gardens span five hectares and feature Clara’s collection of sculptures, which she bought in Venice. Laguna Gloria is a great place to travel with young children, not simply for the gardens and outdoor space, but also for the art-making classes—inspired by current exhibitions—which take place every second Saturday of the month.
The more contemporary of the two sites, the Jones Center stands out as a white art deco building in downtown Austin. The art here is incredibly unique you will find modern mediums such as video installations in addition to cutting-edge architecture and design.
Both locations hold special events Laguna Gloria hosts an art school and weekend drop-in tours, and the Jones Center offers film screenings as well as art and design lectures. Be sure to check the schedule to see what will be going on during your visit to Austin.
