Originally constructed in 1972, the Art Museum of South Texas, designed by architect Philip Johnson, stands as a landmark with its poured white concrete and shell aggregate construction, offering sweeping bay views through its artistic windows. Then, in 2006, an expansion designed by Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, was unveiled. The design doubled the size of the museum and introduced 13 rooftop pyramids that showcased stunning use of color and light. The museum now stands as a testament to the combination of the two unique designs, merging Mexican and American architectural perspectives into one extraordinary masterpiece, which has served as a beacon for creativity and culture since its expansion. 

The architecture of this world-class museum is as stunning as the pieces inside. Discover over 1,900 works of art, including paintings, photographs, ceramics, large installation pieces, and more. Along with their permanent collection, the museum houses temporary exhibits that are as captivating as the stories behind their inspiration. Read on to learn more about these exhibits and the talented artists who created these masterpieces.

Enjoy free admission this holiday season from November 1 – December 31 courtesy of H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions.

Current Exhibitions

Discover the latest exhibitions at the Art Museum of South Texas, where a diverse collection of thought-provoking and visually stunning works brings art to life. Explore a dynamic blend of contemporary and traditional pieces, showcasing the creativity of both emerging and established artists. Each exhibition offers a fresh perspective, inviting visitors to connect with art in new and meaningful ways.

Arcadian Enclosures

Jason DeMarte | September 12, 2025 - January 4, 2026

From the artist:

“I work digitally, combining images of fabricated and artificial flora and fauna with graphic elements and commercially produced products such as processed food, domestic goods and pharmaceutical products. I look at how these seemingly unrelated and absurd groupings and composites begin to address attitudes and understandings of the contemporary experience. I represent the natural world through completely unnatural elements to speak metaphorically and symbolically of our mental separation from what is “real”, and compare and contrast this with the consumer world we surround ourselves with as a consequence.” Learn more about the exhibition here.

Quarter Turn: Faculty Biennial

TAMUCC Faculty | September 12, 2025 - January 4, 2026

The Art Museum of South Texas presents Quarter Turn: 2025 TAMU-CC ART + DESIGN FACULTY- 9th BIENNIAL EXHIBITION. The exhibition’s title carries dual significance: 2025 marks the quarter-century point of the 21st century, making it an ideal moment to reflect on artistic transformation and evolution. “Quarter Turn” represents those pivotal moments when artists make deliberate, measured shifts in their creative practice—not dramatic reversals, but thoughtful recalibrations that honor the past while embracing new possibilities.

Each participating faculty member examines a significant pivot point in their artistic journey, presenting paired artworks that document their transformation alongside reflective statements exploring these moments of change. Through this intimate exploration of creative evolution, visitors witness how breakthrough moments often emerge from strategic redirections rather than complete departures, revealing the courage required for artistic growth and development.

Quarter Turn offers South Texas audiences an unprecedented glimpse into the creative process, showcasing the diverse practices of TAMUU-CC’s faculty across traditional and contemporary mediums. As both the 9th annual faculty exhibition and a quarter-century milestone, it contributes to ongoing documentation of regional artistic development while illuminating universal themes of growth, resilience, and adaptation within individual creative practice. Learn more about the exhibition here. 

Breadth of Latino/a Voices

Various Artists | September 12, 2025 - January 4, 2026

This group of works from the AMST’s permanent collection honors the range of expression among its Latinx artists, featuring César Martínez, Candace Briceño, Alex Rubio, Kathy Vargas, Ivette Olivares, Ricardo Ruiz, Luis Jiménez, Gaspar Enríquez, Benito Huerta, Antonio E. Garcia, Francisco Delgado, Vincent Valdez, Maricela Sanchez, Amorette Garza-Morales, Joe Peña, Teresa Ruiz, Delilah Montoya, Rolando Briseño, Rigoberto A. Gonzalez, Jesse Amado, Carlos Cruz-Diez, Veronica Castillo, Martha Castillo, Patty Jolet, and Stephanie Mercado. Make sure to take an image with the Art Museum’s “Mona Lupe: The Epitome of Chicano Art” by César Martínez. A large painting of DaVinci’s Mona Lisa styled like the Virgin of Guadalupe. Below her is a cactus with several red blossoms, and to her side are two pairs of red roses. 27 spectacular works of art ranging from painting, sculpture, etching, and print. Learn more about the exhibition here. 

Permanent Collection 

The diverse permanent collection houses art from many great artists including Dorothy Hood and Chihuly, and includes the Spanish Colonial Gallery, and art that is focused on the Americas, especially from Texas and the region. Works of art on paper make up a major part of the collection, along with paintings, photographs, sculptures, glass, ceramics, crafts, and large installation pieces. Works of art from the collection are shown in the Art Museum of South Texas galleries, at the Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center, on the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi campus, and occasionally via loans to other institutions.

Elizabeth’s 

Grab a bite to eat at Elizabeth’s, located inside the Art Museum of South Texas, and choose from their selection of vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and cocktails, while enjoying the breathtaking waterfront views of the harbor. Their menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into flavorful dishes influenced by Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Turkish cuisines. Whether you're savoring a mezze platter, indulging in a signature cocktail, or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Elizabeth’s offers an elevated dining experience in a setting that blends art, culture, and coastal beauty. Perfect for a casual lunch, a special occasion, or a relaxing meal before exploring the museum’s exhibits.

Parking 

Parking for the museum is available in the two lots at the facility with the best accessibility including ramps, handicap parking, and easy access to each patron.  

Third Thursday 

On the third Thursday each month, visit the Art Museum of South Texas from 5:30-9:00 p.m. for an evening of viewing galleries, enjoying live music, local vendors, food, and one-of-a-kind art activities. This event, presented by Kleberg Bank is free, and great for all ages and interests. 

Enjoy Downtown 

While you’re in the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi, head to the Seawall, and enjoy stunning waterfront views while taking a scenic walk, or head to one of the many museums for rich culture and unique exhibits and activities. Try the Museum of Science and History to explore over 500 years of South Texas history, the Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures to learn the history and art of Asian cultures, or the Instituto de Cultura Hispanica de Corpus Christi in Heritage Park to learn of diverse cultures from several Hispanic countries. While you’re at Heritage Park, take a walking tour of these 12 historical properties and learn more about them on each historic marker displayed in front of each home to learn the story behind Corpus Christi’s heritage. 

Be sure to check out our upcoming events for even more ways to enjoy Corpus Christi. For insider tips and inspiration, explore our visitor guides packed with local favorites and hidden gems. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop on the latest happenings along the coast.