Tyler Museum of Art | Tyler

Tyler Museum of Art – Tyler, Texas

The Tyler Museum of Art (TMA), founded in 1971, is a prominent cultural institution located in Tyler, Texas, dedicated to showcasing the visual arts. Situated on the campus of Tyler Junior College, the museum's mission is to enhance the cultural landscape of East Texas by providing an accessible and engaging space for art education, exhibitions, and community engagement.

Museum History and Mission:

Established: TMA was founded with the vision of enriching the cultural life of East Texas residents and visitors by showcasing and preserving fine art. Over the years, it has expanded its collection and offerings, becoming a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape.

Location: The museum is located at 1300 South Mahon Avenue, on the Tyler Junior College campus, making it an integral part of the educational and cultural fabric of the area.

The Tyler Museum of Art is committed to fostering a deeper understanding of art through its diverse collections, engaging exhibitions, educational programming, and outreach to the community.

Current Exhibitions:

The Tyler Museum of Art hosts a variety of exhibits throughout the year, ranging from contemporary works to historical pieces. Some of the current exhibitions include:

My Own Backyard: Photographs by Earlie Hudnall Jr.

Dates: December 13, 2024 – March 9, 2025

This exhibition features over 30 photographs taken by Houston-based photographer Earlie Hudnall Jr., documenting the everyday lives of people in Houston's Third, Fourth, and Fifth Wards. Hudnall’s work captures the intimacy and resilience of communities, offering powerful, personal perspectives of urban life.

New to Town: Recent Acquisitions

Dates: January 17 – April 13, 2025

This exhibition highlights the museum’s most recent acquisitions, many of which will be displayed for the first time. These pieces, created by artists with ties to Texas, span a variety of styles and media, providing a fresh look at contemporary Texas art.

Permanent Collection:

The Tyler Museum of Art’s Permanent Collection consists of over 1,600 works of art. It includes a diverse range of pieces, particularly those that emphasize Texas’s rich cultural history and the wider influences of Mexican, Latin American, and contemporary American art. Some highlights from the collection include:

Contemporary Texas Art: A large portion of the collection showcases works by Texas-based artists, reflecting the state’s unique cultural and artistic landscape.

Mexican and Latin American Folk Art: This collection includes vibrant and expressive works that reflect the rich traditions and heritage of Mexico and Latin America.

Notable Artists: The museum's collection also includes works by renowned American artists, including Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer, and Dale Chihuly, known for his stunning glass art installations.

Due to limited exhibition space, not all pieces are on display at any given time. However, visitors can access a searchable online database that provides images and information about the museum's collection.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement:

The Tyler Museum of Art places a strong emphasis on educational programs and community outreach, aiming to make art accessible to all ages and backgrounds.

Family Day:
Held on the second Saturday of each month, Family Day is a fun and interactive event where children and families can engage in art activities, including drawing, painting, and sculpture. The activities are aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards, making them educational as well as creative.

School Tours and Workshops:
The museum offers guided school tours that give students a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the artwork on display. Teachers can arrange workshops that tie into the themes of the exhibitions, giving students a hands-on learning experience in the museum’s art studios.

First Friday:
On the first Friday of each month, the museum opens its doors for free admission and offers guided tours of its featured exhibitions at 11:00 AM. This event is a great way for the community to engage with the museum without the usual admission fee.

Visitor Information:

Museum Hours:

Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Monday: Closed

Closed on major holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas)

Admission Fees:

Adults: $5.00

Seniors (65+): $3.00

Children under 12: Free

Museum Members: Free

Tyler Junior College & City of Tyler Employees: Free

Students: Free

The museum offers special rates for groups and educational programs, making it an ideal destination for field trips or group visits.

Contact Information:

Phone: (903) 595-1001

Email: [email protected]

Website: tylermuseum.org

Special Events:

The Tyler Museum of Art regularly hosts special events, lectures, and art-related programs. One of the highlights is the Rose City Art Festival, a long-standing event in Tyler, which includes art vendors, live demonstrations, and community participation.

Conclusion:

The Tyler Museum of Art plays a vital role in the cultural life of East Texas. With its diverse collection, engaging exhibitions, and educational programs, the museum serves as an important space for artistic exploration and learning. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a student, or a family looking for an enriching experience, the museum offers something for everyone to enjoy.