A common theme amongst summer celebrations and art exhibitions is self-identity and legacy. Art often serves as a reflection or a window to the artist and viewer alike. Whether you have a taste for traditional or a craving for contemporary, get inspired by the art exhibitions in Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas this summer.
Rockport Center for the Arts
204 South Austin St.
The Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) presents three beautifully curated collections this summer. First up, Susie Black represents the working woman in her collection “For the Love of Fabric,” running June 7-July 27, with a reception June 14. With a background in lumber and hardware, Black is a lifelong resident and public servant of the Coastal Bend. Next is James Tisdale, a ceramicist grounded in history and influenced by his experiences. His collection “Reflections” will intrigue visitors from June 17 through Aug. 10, with a reception on Aug. 9. Last but certainly not least, RCA presents a roundup within a roundup: the “Rockport Legends” exhibition. The museum has curated works by artists named the “Master Artist” at each Rockport Art Festival since the first in 1993. Be amazed by the mastery from June 13 to Aug. 10, with a reception on June 14.
Art Museum of South Texas
1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.
The Art Museum of South Texas is a must-visit attraction in the Coastal Bend art scene. The museum presents a theme of legacy through its summer exhibition schedule. As the name suggests, “The Wyeths: Three Generations” displays art by four artists from three generations of the Wyeth family. Offering a wide range of styles and subjects, the collection is sure to amaze. “The Chapman Collection: A Lasting Legacy” combines personal and institutional art collections. This exhibit displays both art from the museum’s permanent collection and from the home of the Chapmans, who heavily influenced the museum as it is today. Finally, “Michelle Smythe: Rangerette Series” depicts the Rangerette drill team of Smythe’s alma mater, Kilgore College. The works presented offer a look at Smythe’s investigation into the female form, a common theme in her art. All currently on display, you can see the Chapman collection until July 7, the Wyeth collection until Aug. 24 and the Smythe collection until Aug. 31.
K Space Contemporary
623 N. Chaparral St.
K Space Contemporary’s new exhibits are sure to turn some heads. Leticia Gomez’s “Prismatic” is a collection of purely instinctual works. Using a variety of media, Gomez masterfully combines colors and forms to present viewers with the experience of self and belonging. Millicent Alvarado’s collection, “Menagerie,” uses paper clippings, found materials and structural assemblage to create images of the complexities of human connection. Currently open for viewing, both exhibits will run until July 18.
Art Center of Corpus Christi
100 N. Shoreline Blvd.
One staple of summer is the celebration of Pride Month. The Art Center of Corpus Christi promises pride in your identity and community with two new exhibitions this summer. The “Coastal Bend Community” collection highlights the essence of coastal life through wildlife, landscapes, waters and more. The “Pride in Color” collection features art submitted by local artists celebrating identity and self-expression. Both exhibitions, currently on display, will run until June 28.
Port Aransas Art Center
104 N. Alister St.
The Port Aransas Art Center has highly anticipated monthly exhibitions lined up all summer long. June is all about watercolors, providing viewers an imaginative and introspective experience into the timeless medium, currently on display. July features “The Boat Show,” which explores watergoing vessels as symbols for the allure of water and exploration, opening July 4. August will see “Elements: Wood, Clay, Metal, Glass and Fiber” as artists and visitors alike explore the beauty of natural materials starting Aug. 1.