Blanton Museum of Art

The Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art, nestled within the vibrant campus of the University of Texas at Austin, is a cultural gem that beckons art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. As one of the largest university art museums in the United States, the Blanton offers an expansive 189,340 square feet dedicated to a diverse array of temporary exhibitions, permanent collection galleries, and educational facilities. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Blanton Museum of Art promises an enriching and captivating experience.

A Rich Historical Tapestry

The Blanton Museum of Art's journey began in 1927 when philanthropist and scholar Archer M. Huntington donated approximately 4,300 acres of land in Galveston County to the University of Texas at Austin. This generous gift laid the foundation for what would eventually become a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. The museum’s initial collection, funded by the Huntington Museum Fund, included a diverse range of works, from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces.

Over the decades, the museum expanded its collection and facilities. In 1963, the Art Building was constructed to house both the University’s Art Department and the University Art Museum, later named the Archer M. Huntington Gallery. The Blanton Museum of Art, as it is known today, emerged from a series of transformations and expansions, with significant contributions from art patrons such as James Michener and Mari Yoriko Sabusawa. The museum’s current name honors Jack S. Blanton, following a substantial donation from the Houston Endowment in his honor.

Exploring the Blanton

As you step into the Blanton Museum of Art, you are greeted by an impressive array of artworks spanning various periods and styles. The museum’s permanent collection boasts over 21,000 works, featuring significant holdings of modern and contemporary art, Latin American art, Old Master paintings, and prints and drawings from Europe, the United States, and Latin America.

The Blanton's modern and contemporary art collection is particularly noteworthy, with over 4,000 objects including works by renowned artists such as Thomas Hart Benton, Alice Neel, Brice Marden, and Yayoi Kusama. The museum also houses an extensive collection of Latin American art, reflecting its long-standing commitment to this vibrant and diverse artistic tradition. Notable pieces include works by Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and Tarsila do Amaral.

The Suida-Manning Collection

One of the highlights of the Blanton Museum of Art is the Suida-Manning Collection, a remarkable assemblage of European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts before 1900. This collection includes over 650 works by artists from the 15th through 18th centuries, such as Parmigianino, Paolo Veronese, and Rubens. The collection predominantly showcases Italian and French artists, but also features notable works from Dutch and English painters, including portraits by Thomas Gainsborough and Thomas Lawrence.

Ancient Art and the Battle Collection

The Blanton Museum of Art also offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilizations with its collection of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman vases, some dating back to the sixth century BCE. The Battle Collection of Plaster Casts, donated by William James Battle, includes 86 19th-century plaster reproductions of Greek and Roman art, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the classical past.

The Julia Matthews Wilkinson Center for Prints and Drawings

For those with a passion for works on paper, the Julia Matthews Wilkinson Center for Prints and Drawings is a must-visit. Housing most of the Blanton's 16,000 works on paper, the center includes a print study room, a library, and curatorial offices. The collection spans European art from 1450 to 1800, Latin American art after 1960, and American art of the 20th century, offering a comprehensive overview of these rich artistic traditions.

Ellsworth Kelly's Austin

One of the museum’s most recent and striking additions is Austin, a 2,715 square foot stone building designed by the celebrated artist Ellsworth Kelly. Gifted to the Blanton Museum in 2015, Austin features stunning stained glass windows and serves as both a work of art and a contemplative space for visitors. The building opened to the public in 2018 and has since become a beloved landmark within the museum’s grounds.

A Dynamic and Evolving Institution

The Blanton Museum of Art continues to evolve and expand, with significant recent developments including a $20 million gift from The Moody Foundation for a campus redesign. The museum unveiled its reimagined exterior grounds and plaza in May 2023, featuring twelve three-story-tall petals providing shade for the new Moody Patio, and a site-specific mural by Cuban-American visual artist Carmen Herrera. These additions enhance the museum’s appeal and create inviting spaces for visitors to gather and reflect.

In conclusion, the Blanton Museum of Art is not just a repository of artistic treasures; it is a dynamic cultural institution that celebrates creativity, diversity, and innovation. Whether you are exploring its extensive collections, attending a special exhibition, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of its grounds, the Blanton offers an unforgettable experience that enriches the mind and soul. So, the next time you find yourself in Austin, make sure to set aside time to discover the wonders of the Blanton Museum of Art.