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.

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.

HOME, LOVE, and LOSS

Various Artists | February 14 - April 27, 2025

HOME LOVE and LOSS is the third in a series of American art exhibitions created through a multi-year, multi-institutional partnership formed by the Amon Carter Museum of American Art as part of the Art Bridges Cohort Program. Bringing together more than 66 works from the collection of Art Bridges, the Amarillo Museum of Art, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the Ellen Noël Museum of Art, this exhibition features family lifecycles from aging to death. This powerful collection, comprised of paintings, photographs, works on paper, and video, delves into the milestones and challenges of family and community life—from birth to aging, and from the bonds of joy to the fractures of loss. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on how we form families and communities; how those relationships are disrupted by adversity, such as illness, poverty, or immigration; and how they are fortified through love, celebration, and resilience. Learn more about the exhibition here.

24th Annual Visionarios Youth Competition

Various Artists | March 14 - April 27, 2025

Sponsored by the Port of Corpus Christi and presented by the AMST, VISIONARIOS is a much-anticipated annual competition for young artists, grades 1-12, with categories that include wet, dry, mixed, and digital/photographic media. This year’s theme THE ART OF THE WISH allows youth in the Coastal Bend area to examine, through their artwork and written statement, their aspirations for themselves, for their loved ones, for their communities, and even beyond. Contest winners will be announced at the free Family Day and Awards Presentation on March 30, 1-4pm. Cash prizes will be awarded to 1st – 3rd place winners in the various grade and media categories. In addition, 3 TAMU-CC scholarships and 1 Del Mar College art scholarship will be awarded to deserving high school students.

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. 

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