San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA)
San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) in San Antonio, Texas, is a vibrant and inviting space for art lovers from around the world. This iconic museum has been providing enriching art experiences since 1981, making it one of the longest-running arts institutions in Texas. Filled with an impressive permanent collection, engaging temporary exhibitions, and thoughtful educational programming and events, SAMA offers something for everyone.
It was founded on the belief that art should be accessible to all; thus, admission is free for everyone. It is committed to fostering education about art appreciation and understanding among its visitors. So, if you have small children, they can participate in interactive tours and be introduced to the visual arts.
Permanent Collection
Permanent collection means never-ending discovery. San Antonio Museum of Art'sArt's permanent collection contains over 25,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years. These include:
- Ancient greek pottery
- 19th-century paintings by American masters (like Frederic Edwin Church and Thomas Moran)
- Modern favorites (like Jackson Pollock and Frank Stella)
- Ethnographic artifacts from North America and Africa
- Chinese jades
- Korean ceramics
- South American textiles
- European Old Masters (such as Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin, and Goya)
Temporary Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions refer to the changing exhibitions that SAMA curates, featuring a mix of local and international artists. Examples include:
- "The Edge of Nowhere: Contemporary Art from Texas": A collection of works by established contemporary artists living in Texas
- "Vital Signs": An exhibition of art created during the COVID-19 pandemic
- "The Wild West: Influences on the American Imagination": A look at how the art of the American West has shaped our collective imagination
- "The Art of Mexico: From Pre-Hispanic to the Present": An exploration of Mexican art from the past to the present
Educational Programming and Events
SAMA offers educational programming and events that make art accessible to all. They range from family-friendly activities, such as:
- Storytime and art-making workshops
- Lectures
- Tours
- Discussions
- Screenings
SAMA also hosts various special events throughout the year, like artist talks, performances, and gallery openings.
At the San Antonio Museum of Art, you can immerse yourself in an array of artistic masterpieces from around the world. From its impressive permanent collection to engaging temporary exhibitions and thoughtful educational programming, SAMA will surely provide enriching art experiences for all. Whether you're a novice or an expert art lover, SAMA is the perfect place to explore and appreciate the works of some of the world's greatest artists.