Mario Perez, of Los Fresnos, Texas, has joined the Art Center family as Preparator, supporting Curatorial staff in the display of exhibitions. The new facilities feature 5 gallery spaces. Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Mario studied graphic design in Houston. After graduation, he embarked on a lifelong career as a contemporary painter and photographer. His work has been exhibited in galleries across the State of Texas. For his work, Mario has received excellence awards from the Dallas Museum of Art and the National Endowment for the Arts. For the past 20 years, Mario has worked as a Preparator for San Antonio’s major museums, including the San Antonio Museum of Art, Artpace San Antonio, The Witte Museum, The Briscoe Western Art Museum, and most recently the McNay Art Museum. Throughout his life, he has enjoyed travelling to Mexico City and photographing street scenes, hand painted signs, and art found in public spaces. In August 2022, his photographs were featured in Designbloom Magazine in an article about the banning of Rótulos (hand painted street signs).
25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF ARTSPACE SUMMER ART CAMP SERVES OVER 290
Donate to the Ceramic Studio
We’re raising funds to purchase new equipment for the new Ceramics Studio. We have a lead gift of $10,000. Our goal is to raise an additional $30,000 to cover the cost of purchasing and installing the new state of the art equipment. If you would like to help, please add a note to your contribution field letting us know you wish for your donation to go towards new ceramic studio equipment.
Donate to the Silent Auction
Thank you for donating to the Rockport Art Festival Silent Auction. The Silent Auction will take place Friday, July 1, on the festival grounds near Rockport Beach. Proceeds from the Auction go to support the many FREE to low cost cultural programs of Rockport Center for the Arts. We appreciate your support for the Art Center and the Arts community of Rockport.
Important Dates | Online Donation Form
Important Dates
APRIL 29 - Donation form live & accepting donation information
JUNE 10 - RCA MEMBERS, please deliver your donation by this date to Art Center staff and volunteers
JUNE 18 - ART FEST ARTISTS, please fill out this form by this date to let us know what you are donating
JULY 1, 1PM - ART FEST ARTISTS, please deliver your donation to the big tent (if not already delivered to RCA)
JULY 1 - 6PM - ART AUCTION GALA featuring the silent auction
JULY 2-3 - 2022 Rockport Art Festival
Catalog of Paintings by Mike LaFleur
A Catalog of Paintings by
Cerulean Gallery and Rockport Center for the Arts have partnered to bring you a collection of work by Mike LaFleur. LaFleur, a West Texas native, discovered his love for art at the age of six when he first painted with his grandmother, and has continued to create beautiful works of art ever since. From the winter torn pueblos of the Taos Valley to the tattered flags of the lone star state, his subject matter remains traditional despite his modern style.
A portion of the proceeds from this catalog will go to the Rockport Center for the Arts Imagine campaign.
NEW Beach Day SCULPTURE Arriving in Time for Beach Weather
ROCKPORT, Texas (April 20, 2022) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced the completion of Beach Day, its new work by nationally recognized figurative sculptor Kathy Wardle. Currently in transit from the bronze foundry in Loveland, Colorado, the sculpture is scheduled to arrive in Rockport by May 3 with installation scheduled for Wednesday, May 4, in the heart of downtown.
Made possible by a contribution from an anonymous donor, Beach Day is a 700-pound, one-of-a-kind bronze work conceptualized by the donor, the artist, and RCA with Rockport in mind. Comprised of five individual bronze sculptures depicting a family walking the beach, shells and sand at their feet, the three-quarter life-size pieces will be displayed with prominent visibility at the intersection of South Austin Street and Wharf, on the same block as the new $12.3 million campus currently under construction.
“In 2019, we began work to find a representational sculpture that had a deep connection to who we are in the small coastal community of Rockport, Texas,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “Wardle is one of six artists we interviewed and her design for Beach Day surfaced as the strongest candidate because the concept was specifically tied to our community.”
Wardle completed the long and intricate process of clay molding the sculpture in spring of 2021. The clay sculpture was then enlarged by DuChateau Sculpture Services, a professional 3-D scanning and digital resizing provider in Loveland, Colorado, using 3-D digital scanning and custom-designed milling machines to replicate the specific details of the sculpture in an armature- a high-density foam version of the piece. Dan Ochs of Ochs Wax Pouring of Loveland then began his part of the process, carefully separating the sculpted figures into sections, brushing on coats of rubber over the clay sculpture pieces, followed by a plaster mold. Separated into 30 pieces, wax was then poured into the plaster molds followed by a silica sand mixture used to make ceramic shells over the wax forms as part of the cire perdue (lost wax) process to be completed at the foundry.
Beach Day’s molds were then sent to Bronze Services, Inc. of Loveland, Colorado for the bronzing process. Known as the highest quality bronze fine art foundry in the U.S., the company utilizes top-of-the-line materials and specializes in the lost wax casting process, providing high-end service to acclaimed artists from around the world. Once the bronzing process was completed and the molds were removed, the 30 individual Beach Day sections were carefully welded together and re-sculpted into the five figures using specialized tools to refine the piece to exactly match the original clay sculpture, with the patina added as the final step.
“I use multi-colored patina in my sculptures that allows bright colors other than the traditional browns and ochres to be part of the finished look,” Wardle stated. “I think it adds visual excitement and heightened reality to my work.”
With a Master of Visual Arts and vast experience studying with internationally acclaimed artists, Wardle has been teaching three-dimensional design and creating representational sculptures in bronze for four decades. The work of this Colorado-based artist is technically correct as each piece of clay is shaped and positioned to maximize her intellectual and emotional interpretation of the desired message. Wardle often finds herself marveling over the artistic act of making a lump of clay come alive, becoming intimately involved with the texture, shape, rhythm, and emotion her art conveys.
“I attempt to depict humankind’s finest traits in my artwork,” Wardle said. “Courage, bravery, triumph, hope, kindness, joy and love are emotive themes I have tried to communicate in past works. In Beach Day, I revisit emotions that I believe are eternally important to our humanity. Beach Day shows a family filled with love and joy as they head to the beach for a wonderful day of fun and togetherness.”
In addition to RCA’s first edition Beach Day sculpture, up to four other editions are permitted to be cast by the artist. Including Wardle’s Beach Day, RCA’s public art program will feature a total of 17 pieces of art in its permanent collection.
“One of our primary goals has been to use sculpture to create a conversation about Art that stretches from downtown Rockport to the new campus on Austin Street, and onto the sculptures that are part of the permanent collection located near Aransas Bay and Little Bay,” said Purón.
About Rockport Center for the Arts
Rockport Center for the Arts has moved temporarily to 401 S. Austin Street at the Baker Law Building, first floor, while awaiting the August 2022 completion of a new facility. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. For general information, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519. For information on event space, or to book an event, contact Venue Manager Carla Ligon at (361) 779-6801.
RCA Announces Sculpture Acquisition
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced it is acquiring new work by nationally recognized figurative sculptor Kathy Wardle, the second new piece to be procured this year for RCA.
Made possible by a contribution from an anonymous donor, Beach Day is a one-of-a-kind bronze piece conceptualized by the donor, the artist, and RCA with Rockport in mind. Depicting a family of five walking to the beach, the 400-pound, three-quarter life-size sculpture is scheduled to be completed December 2021 and will eventually be displayed with prominent visibility along South Austin Street, near the new $8.7 million RCA campus currently under construction in the heart of downtown Rockport.
“I attempt to depict humankind’s finest traits in my artwork,” said Wardle. “Courage, bravery, triumph, hope, kindness, joy and love are emotive themes I have tried to communicate in past works. In Beach Day, I revisit emotions that I believe are eternally important to our humanity. Beach Day shows a family filled with love and joy as they head to the beach for a wonderful day of fun and togetherness.”
With a Master of Visual Arts and vast experience studying with internationally acclaimed artists, Wardle has been teaching three-dimensional design and creating representational sculptures in bronze for four decades. The work of this Colorado-based artist is technically correct as each piece of clay is shaped and positioned to maximize her intellectual and emotional interpretation of the desired message. Wardle often finds herself marveling over the artistic act of making a lump of clay come alive, becoming intimately involved with the texture, shape, rhythm, and emotion her art conveys.
“In late 2019, we started working on the concept for a representational sculpture that had a deep connection to who we are as a people in the small Coastal community of Rockport, Texas,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “We interviewed a total of six artists from across the United States. We asked them to study our community and present concepts. Wardle’s Beach Day surfaced as the strongest candidate because the concept was specifically tied to our community. In November of last year, we signed an agreement with Wardle, and she started work on Beach Day right away. At the end of August, we visited her at the foundry in Loveland, Colorado, where the sculpture is now, ready to be cast.”
Wardle is hands-on start to finish, from the block of clay she uses to create the piece to supervising every step through the finished bronze sculpture and the patina process, so it’s only natural she would work with professionals equally dedicated to their craft in this lengthy and meticulous process.
Wardle completed the long and intricate process of clay molding the sculpture this spring. The clay sculpture was enlarged by DuChateau Sculpture Services, a professional 3-D scanning and digital resizing provider in Loveland. Using 3-D digital scanning and custom designed milling machines, DuChateau replicated the specific details of the sculpture to create the armature, a high-density foam version of the piece. Dan Ochs of Ochs Wax Pouring of Loveland then began his part of the process. Serving artists for more than 30 years, Ochs carefully separated the sculpted figures into sections and brushed on coats of rubber over the clay sculpture pieces, followed by a plaster mold. The sculpture was separated into 30 pieces. Wax was poured into the plaster molds followed by a silica sand mixture used to make ceramic shells over the wax forms as part of the “lost wax” process to be completed at the foundry.
Beach Day’s molds are now at Bronze Services of Loveland, Inc. where they are beginning the bronzing process. Known as the highest quality bronze fine art foundry in the U.S., the company utilizes top-of-the-line materials and specializes in the "lost wax" casting process, providing high-end service to acclaimed artists from around the world. Once the bronzing process is completed and the molds are removed, the 30 individual Beach Day sections will be carefully welded together and re-sculpted, using specialized tools to refine the piece to exactly match the original clay sculpture. The last step is to patina the finished five elements that comprise the sculpture.
“I like multi-colored patina in my sculptures that allows bright colors other than the traditional browns and ochres to be part of the finished look,“ Wardle said. “I think it adds visual excitement and heightened reality to my work.”
In addition to RCA’s first edition Beach Day sculpture, up to four other full-size sculptures are permitted to be cast by the artist. Including Wardle’s Beach Day, RCA’s public art program will feature a total of 17 pieces of art in its permanent collection.
Spring Art Fair in Rockport Announces Exhibitors for 2022
Presented by Salemi’s Ace Hardware, the March 25–27 event features national and international artists from galleries across Texas
ROCKPORT, Texas (Feb. 9, 2022) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) is busy preparing for its second annual Spring Art Fair, presented by Salemi’s Ace Hardware, March 25–27.
Featuring fine art created by artists represented by 14 galleries, the two-day booth-style show will be held at the Fulton Convention Center Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, March 27, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., with a VIP-Preview Party Friday evening, March 25, starting at 6 p.m.
“We are ready to kick off our 2022 event season with the Spring Art Fair,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “Last year, for our inaugural Art Fair event, we featured the work of local galleries and artists. We are excited to expand the format to include galleries from across the State of Texas and are pleased to announce the exhibitors for this year’s event.”
Throughout the weekend, guests may stroll through the spacious Fulton Convention Center while acquiring fine art for their private collections from reputable and established galleries, including:
Art Everywhere, Bayside, Texas
A Smith Gallery, Johnson City, Texas
Cerulean Gallery, Dallas and Amarillo, Texas
Hausmann Millworks, San Antonio, Texas
K Space Contemporary, Corpus Christi, Texas
Mi Vida Loca Gallery, Corpus Christi, Texas
MJP Art Services, Houston, Texas
Mockingbird Handprints, San Antonio, Texas
Moroles Art Co, Rockport, Texas
Presa House, San Antonio, Texas
Texas A&M Corpus Christi Faculty, Corpus Christi, Texas
The Gallery at Anita Diebel Studio, Rockport, Texas
Wind Way Gallery, Rockport, Texas
The Spring Art Fair kicks off Friday evening, March 25, from 6–8:30 p.m., with a special VIP-Preview Party at the convention center featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music by Gulf Coast Jazz, and valet parking. Individual tickets to the VIP Preview Party are $125 per person for RCA members, $150 for non-members, and are now available for purchase. Patrons attending the VIP Preview Party will get to see the work first and have the opportunity to acquire it that evening directly from exhibitors before the event opens to the public on Saturday, March 26.
This year, attendees will also have a unique opportunity to interact with Mark Prendergast of MJP Art Services, a AAA certified appraiser of fine art, antiques, and collectibles. Prendergast, who has worked with RCA on art auctions in previous years, will be providing free verbal valuations of up to three items per person on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may bring the items (no jewelry) in person or have photographs on a mobile device to receive current secondary sale market values or insurance valuations.
Single-day tickets are now on sale for the weekend Art Fair, Saturday and Sunday, March 25 and 26, for $6 per person, ages 13 and up; children 12 and under are free. Refreshments will be available throughout the weekend.
Salemi’s Ace Hardware returns as title sponsor for the second-year event along with other sponsors including Teal Construction Company, Richter Architects, Baker Law, Luce Properties LLC, Karen Mella Realtor, First Community Bank, New Beginnings, NavyArmy Community Credit Union, and media partners: KIII-TV and iHeart Radio. Government supporters include the Texas Commission on the Arts, the City of Rockport Texas, and Aransas County.
The Official Hotel for the Spring Art Fair, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, located at 2950 Hwy 35 North Business in Rockport, is offering a guaranteed room rate of $149 per night for those needing accommodations.
For a detailed exhibitor list and more information on the Spring Art Fair and VIP-Preview Party, visit www.RockportArtFair.com or call (361) 729-5519.
About Rockport Center for the Arts
Rockport Center for the Arts has moved temporarily to 401 S. Austin Street at the Baker Law Building, first floor, while awaiting the August 2022 completion of a new facility. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. For general information, visit Rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519. For information on event space, or to book an event, contact Venue Manager Carla Ligon at (361) 779-6801.
Rockport Center for the Arts Parking Groundbreaking Ceremony Invitation to the General Public
Date: Friday January 28, 2022 ⸙ Time: 11:00 am
Venue: Rockport Center for the Arts Parking Lot, corner of S. Live Oak St. and North St., Rockport, TX
ROCKPORT, Texas (Jan. 11, 2022) – Construction on Rockport Center for the Arts’ (RCA) Parking Lot is scheduled to start in late February. Located on North Street between N. Magnolia and Live Oak Street it is scheduled for completion September 2022, around the same time RCA new campus will be completed. The parking lot will surround the historic Train Depot on three sides. The depot was saved through Aransas County’s acquisition of a grant, which allowed for the purchase of the property and having its sole structure donated to the Rockport Cultural Arts District for preservation.
The parking lot will comprise 60 spaces, overhead lighting, landscaping, an irrigation system and sidewalks that connect the lot to RCA new campus located one-block away on S. Austin St. through existing sidewalks. It will provide parking for RCA, community events and general parking for downtown merchants. Construction on the lot will start in late February. The engineer for the project is Hanson Engineering and the contractor is Marshall Construction, both from Corpus Christi, Texas.
The parking lot is made possible through a Community Development Block Grant administered by the Texas General Land Office, and is part of a $53.9 million block grant Aransas County obtained after Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
“One of Downtown Rockport’s needs has been to have parking for citizens and tourists to enjoy the unique offerings of the area. Aransas County is happy to have obtained the grant to make this project and many others happen,” said Judge “Burt” C.H. Mills. Luis Purón, RCA executive director said “We are thankful to the leadership of Aransas County forhaving the foresight to include parking that will support 22,000 square feet of new RCA facilities for conventiontourism, programs in all forms of Art, and the many activities in downtown Rockport.”
For more information about the block grant visit: https://www.glo.texas.gov/the-glo/news/pressreleases/2020/may/cmr-george-p-bush-announces-more-than-43-million-in-disaster-recovery-funds-for-aransascounty.html
To RSVP to the groundbreaking email pio@aransascounty.org
2022 Merit Artists Announced
Congrats to our 2022 Merit Artists. They will receive a solo show Next Winter.
NEW EDUCATION COORDINATOR STARTS JANUARY 4
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new education coordinator, Kathleen Clark, to begin January 4, 2022.
Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Kathleen has always had a strong interest in arts advocacy and community engagement. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music with a minor in Music History from the University of the Incarnate Word, where she developed a passion for arts administration. Kathleen recently graduated with a Master of Arts in Arts Leadership from the University of Houston. She completed her practicum at The Art Museum of South Texas in Corpus Christi, reimagining how museums engage with their community. Kathleen strives to create meaningful art experiences that are inclusive of diverse communities.
“We are excited to welcome Kathleen to our team. She brings a contemporary perspective in arts leadership paired with valuable hands-on experience creating, advertising and facilitating arts programming in fellow arts organizations to her new post” said Karen Ernst, deputy director for RCA. “Kathleen’s drive for engaging communities and creating meaningful art experiences will be a valuable asset as we expand existing programming and open our new campus in 2022.”
JEFFREY NEEL MCDANIEL NAMED POSTER ARTIST FOR 2022 ROCKPORT ART FESTIVAL
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) has named Corpus Christi native Jeffery Neel McDaniel as the 2022 Rockport Art Festival poster artist, the thirtieth artist to receive the honor. The announcement was made on Dec. 11 as part of a special RCA reception for its current exhibition, Currents: The All-Members Exhibition, for which McDaniel is serving as guest juror.
The first Rockport Art Festival was hosted in 1969 and has grown to become one of the most respected, and longest-running juried art festivals in the United States. Since 1993, a diverse committee of artists and art patrons have gathered to select one master artist to create the official poster for the annual event.
This select group of chosen artists, the first of whom was master artist Harold Phenix, are known for their achievements in the Arts, for their engagement and contributions to the Rockport Center for the Arts, and for their ability to successfully portray the unique coastal aesthetic that is uniquely Rockport and that is recognized across the State of Texas. With vibrant paintings inspired by the local scenery, Corpus Christi native McDaniel was a perfect choice.
“I have been watching Jeffrey Neel McDaniel’s work since 2013, and it’s fun to see him grow as an artist and develop a visual language that is very much influenced by the saturate colors of the Texas coast,” said Elena Rodriguez, curator of exhibitions for Rockport Center for the Arts.
A Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma and crisis counseling, McDaniel began painting in 2013. With an amazing ability to capture the beauty of life around him, his work often depicts the awe-inspiring Rockport sunrises, the haunting depths of the ocean, and the brilliant colors of tropical flowers. He has participated in the Rockport Art Festival since 2019 and has received recognition at numerous other events over the years, including 1st Place in Botanicals (Corpus Christi Art Center, 2021); Best in Show (Kerrville Art Center, 2021); 3rd Place (Outdoor Painters Society Show, 2020); and Best of Show (Watercolor Society of South Texas, 2016).
"I believe art enriches and improves our lives,” said McDaniel. “My art is inspired by the natural beauty of the South Texas Coast, Big Bend, and the Texas Hill Country, especially around the Laguna Madre, the Chisos Mountains, and the Frio River.
“Painting is a great stress reliever for me, but the urge to paint is driven by the marvel and mystery of the natural world around me. I express my wonder, curiosity, and gratitude through my art, and hope people feel a connection to nature when they view my paintings."
RCA will host a solo exhibition on McDaniel’s work kicking off in June 2022 leading up to the Rockport Art Festival, scheduled for July 2–3. McDaniel’s show will feature a variety of his vibrant works, including his piece selected as the poster art for the festival, with a public unveiling of the piece along with an artist gallery talk, reception, and poster signing.
Rockport Center for the Arts Announces Search for Venue Manager
A challenging yet rewarding opportunity awaits the right individual with a proven track record in venue management and sales and an interest in building a venue rental program from the ground up.
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA), a vibrant and prestigious multi-disciplinary arts organization celebrates 52 years of operation in 2021. Poised for growth, the organization is in the process of constructing a campus in the heart of Downtown Rockport that will feature state-of-the-art education, exhibit, as well as new performance and conference spaces. The project is slated for completion in August 2022 and will transform downtown while significantly increasing operations for the Center, particularly with the additional of a venue center available to rent to the public. In preparation for dynamic growth, the organization seeks an individual seasoned in venue sales to join the staff team and build this new revenue generating area of operations for the organization.
Title: Venue Manager
Reports To: Deputy Director
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Status: Full-time
Position Announcement: November 15, 2021
Application Deadline: Open until filled.
Anticipated Start Date: January/February 2022
Remote work will be considered prior to the physical completion of the building, slated for August 2022.
Position Purpose:
The Venue Manager is responsible for booking events in the venue center and for promoting the venue center through aggressive marketing activity.
Essential duties and responsibilities
Identify clients and secure their venue rental bookings. Initiate sales calls via phone, e-mail, mail and in person with the intent of aggressively marketing the venue to prospective clients and build repeat clients.
Represent the venue at various industry events and tradeshows. Research, identify and establish the appropriateness of groups for the facility.
Execute all aspects of the sales process including promoting the venue to potential clients; conducting facility tours; answering questions and providing information regarding facility services, technical capabilities, policies and procedures; and assist clients in finalizing booking arrangements.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the county, including local hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other area organizations; and represent the facility professionally at all times.
Participate in the development and execution of marketing plan and materials.
Develop measurable sales goals and strategies to meet and exceed budget requirements.
Prepare facility use proposals and cost estimates, license agreements and related correspondence to clients.
Ensure booking information is maintained.
Demonstrate continuous effort to improve operations, streamline processes, and work cooperatively with client, Event Managers, catering, and other service providers to deliver a high-quality product and customer service exceeding client’s expectations.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Qualifications & Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from accredited college or university with emphasis in hospitality management, public or business administration, or other related fields.
Minimum 3-5 years of increasingly responsible sales and venue management experience in a convention center, conference center or other similar public assembly facility, including supervisory responsibility.
Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally, both written and orally, in the English language.
Teamwork, interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop good relationships with internal and external contacts and to work collaboratively with diverse constituencies including people from diverse socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds required.
Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation preferred.
Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Ability to work beyond normal business hours including nights and weekends as required.
Working conditions
The duties of this position are usually performed indoors. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud during events and minimal during non-event times.
The regular workweek schedule is flexible provided working hours meet the needs of clients and allows for timely communication with organization management during regular business hours. Remote work will be considered prior to the physical completion of the facility. Upon completion of the facility in person work in Rockport, Texas, is expected.
Physical requirements
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Intellectual/Social demands: While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is continuously asked to multi-task under time limits. Position requires constant attention to precise details and accuracy of specified standards including following simple to complex (more than 3 steps) instructions and concentration which frequently extends beyond 30 minutes at a time. This position also requires constant use of interpersonal skills including ability to foster collaboration, recognize and resolve conflicts, and openly communicate in writing and verbally with clients.
Physical demands: While performing the essential functions of the job, the employee constantly operates a computer and other office devices such telephones, copy machines, scanners, etc.; occasionally moves about inside the office to access storage areas, cabinets and office machinery; occasionally moves about the arena before/during/after events to service client and perform job functions; constantly communicates via telephone, email and in-person with others to exchange accurate information.
Compensation:
Full-time position. Competitive base salary based on experience plus commission based on venue sales results. Benefits include paid time off and employee health insurance provided and covered at 100% with option to add Vision and Dental coverage at employee’s expense. Employment is at will with a six-month evaluation/introductory period.
To Apply:
For more information about Rockport Center for the Arts, please visit www.rockportartcenter.com. No phone calls, please.
To apply please submit a letter of interest and resume to hr@rockportartcenter.com.
Rockport Center for the Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
ROCKPORT BEAUTIFICATION EFFORTS CONTINUE WITH NEW SCULPTURE INSTALLATION
ROCKPORT, Texas (Sept. 27, 2021) — As construction continues on the new $8.7M Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) campus, RCA continues its effort to enhance downtown Rockport with public art.
On Thursday, Oct. 7, Austin Street Red, a large, abstract steel sculpture by Clyde, Texas-based sculptor Nic Noblique, will be installed from 10–11 a.m. in front of the Baker Law Building in downtown Rockport.
Measuring 96” tall with a base 30” in diameter and powder coated in fiery “Bengal Red,” the piece was recently donated to the Rockport Center for the Arts by an anonymous donor who acquired it directly from the artist. Austin Street Red will be elevated on a cylindrical shaped concrete base designed and poured by Rockport builder Al Johnson, and pinned to the concrete base using marine-grade steel bolts.
“This installation is part of RCA’s ongoing plan to further beautify downtown by working with individual businesses to develop locations for public art exhibitions,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “The facade of the iridescent blue Baker Law Building will provide a stunning canvas for the red sculpture, which will be located in a flower bed facing South Austin Street. We are thankful to Baker Law for taking this sculpture into long-term loan for the public’s enjoyment.”
Austin Street Red is the second RCA sculpture on loan in downtown Rockport, part of the effort to connect all of South Austin Street with public sculpture displays, from the southernmost block to the new RCA campus located at South Austin and North Street. Two other South Austin Street locations already showcase Noblique sculptures; LATITUDE 28°02' Restaurant and Art Gallery, and the Rockport Daily Grind coffee shop, featuring The Spirit of Rockport, which was the first downtown sculpture on loan from RCA.
Two additional sculptures are also on loan in other parts of the state; one at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum in Austin, and another with the Tres Centurias Foundation at Mahncke Park in San Antonio, both of which will be returned for installation in RCA Sculpture Garden once construction of the new art campus is completed in 2022.
Growing up immersed in the punk rock, skateboard and snowboard culture of the Midwest, sculptor Nic Noblique is a snowboarding veteran of the first Winter X Games (1997), who went on to successfully pursue his passion for art and design, leading to more than two decades of notable achievements, installations, competitions and exhibitions.
Beyond designing and building indoor and outdoor skate and snow parks, Noblique has found great success in the arts, creating sculpture that is graceful, ethereal and soft despite coming from rough, cold, rigid steel, and using color to excite and further engage the viewer and surroundings, and to elicit a physical reaction. He has participated in many sculpture competitions, solo and group exhibitions with respected galleries and art centers nationally. Working with numerous charities and arts initiatives to improve communities and lives through art, Noblique also teaches graduate level 3-D art at Hardin Simmons University (Belton, Texas) and works to cultivate new talent via apprenticeships through McMurry University (Abilene, Texas).
ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS LAUNCHES GUY CLARK FESTIVAL
ROCKPORT, Texas (Sept. 15, 2021) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced the Guy Clark Festival, a new brand and experience incorporating art, film and music celebrating the Grammy Award-winning American songwriter and folk singer who spent his teen years living in Rockport.
With multiple events scheduled October 15 –November 14 to benefit RCA and its new facility under construction, the unique festival is a tribute to Clark, who would have celebrated his 80th birthday on November 6 of this year.
“This is something we’ve wanted to do for some time,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “Guy Clark is a beloved son of Rockport and an iconic figure who contributed so much to the world through his lyrics, poetry and music. He was a true artist and one deserving celebration.”
The festival will kick off October 15 with the Rockport Kind of Guy exhibition at RCA showcasing new, original paintings by Steve Russell, Rockport artist and personal friend of Clark, interpreting 16 of Clark’s songs. Running through November 14, the exhibition is free and open to the public.
There will be a Rockport Kind of Guy art book and CD release event with artist Steve Russell on Thursday, October 21, from 5–7 p.m. Memorializing Russell’s 16 paintings, the book includes historical photographs, information, and personal memories from those who knew Clark best during his formative years in Rockport, as well as commentary by the artist, the 16 musicians/performers who recorded the songs in the CD, as well as local history champions Cheryl Livingston and Ty Husak, of the Aransas County Historical Society.
The companion Rockport Kind of Guy CD was produced by John Macy and Coastal Bend Music, featuring the 16 Guy Clark songs represented in the exhibition and book as performed by noted singer and songwriters such as Lyle Lovett, Michael Martin Murphey, Gary P. Nunn, Steve Earle, Verlon Thompson, Shawn Camp and more.
The Festival includes ticketed events as well, including An Evening with Verlon Thompson and Shawn Camp – an acoustic musical performance at the Rialto Theater in Aransas Pass, November 7 and 8, beginning at 7 p.m. Celebrating Guy Clark’s musical legacy, the evening features performances and storytelling by Thompson and Camp with a special post-concert meet and greet and CD signing for premium ticket-holders.
Fans can also purchase tickets to attend a special screening of the documentary film Without Getting Killed or Caught, directed by Tamara Saviano and Paul Whitfield, on Friday, November 12, 7 p.m., at Movies Inc Aransas Pass. Based on the diaries of Susanna Clark and Saviano’s 2016 book Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark, the film tells the saga from Susanna’s point of view, with Academy Award winner Sissy Spacek providing narration.
There will be additional Festival merchandise available, including a limited edition, signed, 20”x16” gicleé of Rockport Kind of Guy, the painting by Steve Russell used as the cover art for the book and companion CD. Merchandise for the Festival is available now for pre-order.
All Proceeds from the Guy Clark Festival benefit Rockport Center for the Arts’ new campus, currently under construction in the heart of the town Guy Clark loved.
“Rockport Center for the Arts already possesses nationally recognized visual arts and cinematic programs,” said Purón. “In the very near future, the performing arts will be a new but regular offering that is sure to energize our community and visitors. We are excited to launch Guy Clark Festival, and with it, chart a new direction for programs in the performing arts.”
Tickets for the concert will be available online beginning September 28 at 10 a.m., with tickets for the film screening on sale beginning October 1. To learn more, pre-order merchandise, and book tickets, visit GuyClarkFestival.com.
Important Guy Clark Festival Dates
Sept. 28 Tickets go on sale An Evening with Verlon Thompson and Shawn Camp
Oct. 1 Tickets go on sale for Without Getting Killed or Caught Film Screening
Oct. 15 Exhibit Opens — Rockport Kind of Guy, new work by Steve Russell
Oct. 21 Rockport Kind of Guy Book/CD Release and Signing with Steve Russell
Nov. 7-8 An Evening with Verlon Thompson and Shawn Camp – A Musical Performance
Nov. 12 Film Screening — Without Getting Killed or Caught, directed by Tamara Saviano and Paul Whitfield
Nov. 13 Film Panel Discussion — Without Getting Killed or Caught, with Tamara Saviano and others
About Rockport Center for the Arts
Rockport Center for the Arts has moved temporarily to 401 S. Austin Street at the Baker Law Building, first floor, while awaiting the completion of a new facility in August 2022. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday and Sat from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. Visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519 for more information.
Rockport Center for the Arts Announces Search for Education Coordinator
A challenging yet rewarding opportunity awaits the right individual with a passion for arts education.
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA), a vibrant and prestigious multi-disciplinary arts organization celebrates 52 years of operation in 2021. Poised for growth, the organization is in the process of constructing a campus in the heart of Downtown Rockport that will feature state-of-the-art education, exhibit, performance and conference spaces. The project is slated for completion in August 2022 and will transform downtown while significantly increasing operations for the Center. In preparation for dynamic growth, the organization seeks a creative, energetic, and inspired individual to join the staff team and lead youth and adult education programming.
Title: Education Coordinator
Reports To: Deputy Director
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Status: Full-time
Position Purpose:
The Education Coordinator leads the work of the educational pillar of Rockport Center for the Arts. The Education Coordinator is responsible for designing and implementing innovative educational experiences for youth, young adults, and adults to further the mission and strategic vision of RCA. Adult programming includes year-round classes and workshops for adult learners including an annual resident artist program co-coordinated with RCA’s Curator. Youth programming includes youth summer camps, FREE Family Saturdays, an annual art educator conference, and field trip and outreach activities in local schools and child care facilities.
Essential duties and responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Deputy Director, the responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following tasks:
Work closely with Deputy Director and RCA Education Committee to plan and execute a strategic, well-balanced schedule for education & outreach programs while striving for program growth
Serve as primary staff representative to RCA Education Committee.
Design and Implement Adult Classes & Workshops throughout the year including: instructor identification, room scheduling, class pricing, course descriptions and supply lists, website population, promotion and registrar tasks.
Design and Implement annual youth summer camps including supervision of paid camp staff and high school student volunteers.
Design and Implement FREE Family Saturdays during academic year including supervision of any program volunteers and contractors.
Design and Implement Annual Art Educator Days, Art Teacher In-service Conference.
Work in collaboration with RCA Curator on the design and implementation of visiting artist programming including Penny Redmon and Artist in Residence series.
Work with community partners to create engaging Field Trip & Outreach programming for PK-High school students
Supervise contractors, interns and volunteers that will help in execution of all education programs
Manage art supply inventory for all education programs
Cultivate community partnerships, especially with local schools, child care facilities and area non profits
Attend all exhibit openings and RCA signature events including Rockport Art Festival, Spring Art Fair, Rockport Film Festival and the Silver Meltdown Jewelry Show and Sale.
Assist with signature events and projects as identified and requested by Executive and/or Deputy Director.
The ideal candidate will also be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities
Negotiate, prepare, administer, and monitor MOAs/agreements with contractors involved in the delivery of programs.
Develop and manage all budgets, expenditures and data related to education programs.
Assist the Development committee in identifying and cultivating program underwriters and sponsors.
Write Grants and assist with funding appeals for youth programs
Actively participate in promoting and marketing programs, including creation and dispersal of promotional materials both in print and online.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Qualifications & Requirements
High School Diploma required. Bachelor’s degree in Arts Management, Arts Education, Specific field of art or other related field preferred.
A minimum of two years’ experience in education administration, arts education, or museum or relevant non-profit sector work preferred.
Teamwork, interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop good relationships with internal and external contacts and to work collaboratively with diverse constituencies including people from diverse socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds required
Experience with parents, teachers, and students with the ability to react quickly and communicate effectively in time sensitive situations required.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills required.
Highly organized, self-starter, detail orientation required including proven organizational skills, with strong ability to set priorities, manage multiple projects, work independently, demonstrate initiative and perform under pressure.
Computer literacy with proficiency in Microsoft Office required.
Proficiency in database management, website management, graphic design preferred.
Demonstrated enthusiasm and passion for the arts required.
Working conditions
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Regular workweek schedule is Monday through Friday with periodic evenings and weekends, particularly tied to weekend workshops, FREE Family Saturdays, signature events and exhibit openings.
Physical requirements
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use their hands and arms to handle, reach, or feel; and talk and hear.
The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk.
The employee must regularly lift and/or move items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Direct reports
Artist Instructor Contractors
Summer Camp Staff
Education program Interns & Volunteers
Compensation:
Full-time position. Competitive salary based on experience. Benefits include paid time off and employee health insurance provided and covered at 100% with option to add Vision and Dental coverage at employee’s expense. Employer will provide professional development opportunities. Employment is at will with a six-month evaluation/introductory period.
To Apply:
For more information about Rockport Center for the Arts, please visit www.rockportartcenter.com. No phone calls, please.
To apply please submit a letter, a CV, three professional references (no personal references), and salary requirements to hr@rockportartcenter.com.
Rockport Center for the Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS ANNOUNCES NEW ACQUISITION BY SCULPTOR KATHY WARDLE
ROCKPORT, Texas (Sept. 3, 2021) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced it is acquiring new work by nationally recognized figurative sculptor Kathy Wardle, the second new piece to be procured this year for RCA.
Made possible by a contribution from an anonymous donor, Beach Day is a one-of-a-kind bronze piece conceptualized by the donor, the artist and RCA with Rockport in mind. Depicting a family of five walking to the beach, the 400-pound, three-quarter life-size sculpture is scheduled to be completed December 2021 and will eventually be displayed with prominent visibility along South Austin Street, near the new $8.7 million RCA campus currently under construction in the heart of downtown Rockport.
“I attempt to depict humankind’s finest traits in my artwork,” said Wardle. “Courage, bravery, triumph, hope, kindness, joy and love are emotive themes I have tried to communicate in past works. In Beach Day, I revisit emotions that I believe are eternally important to our humanity. Beach Day shows a family filled with love and joy as they head to the beach for a wonderful day of fun and togetherness.
With a Masters in Visual Arts and vast experience studying with internationally acclaimed artists, Wardle has been teaching three-dimensional design and creating representational sculptures in bronze for four decades. The work of this Colorado-based artist is technically correct as each piece of clay is shaped and positioned to maximize her intellectual and emotional interpretation of the desired message. Wardle often finds herself marveling over the artistic act of making a lump of clay come alive, becoming intimately involved with the texture, shape, rhythm and emotion her art conveys.
“In late 2019, we started working on the concept for a representational sculpture that had a deep connection to who we are as a people in the small Coastal community of Rockport, Texas,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “We interviewed a total of six artists from across the United States. We asked them to study our community and present concepts. Wardle’s Beach Day surfaced as the strongest candidate because the concept was specifically tied to our community. In November of last year, we signed an agreement with Wardle and she started work on Beach Day right away. At the end of August, we visited her at the foundry in Loveland, Colorado, where the sculpture is now ready to be cast.”
Wardle is hands-on start to finish, from the block of clay she uses to create the piece to supervising every step through the finished bronze sculpture and the patina process, so it’s only natural she would work with professionals equally dedicated to their craft in this lengthy and meticulous process.
Wardle completed the long and intricate process of clay molding the sculpture this spring. The clay sculpture was enlarged by DuChateau Sculpture Services, a professional 3-D scanning and digital resizing provider in Loveland. Using 3-D digital scanning and custom designed milling machines, DuChateau replicated the specific details of the sculpture to create the armature, a high-density foam version of the piece. Dan Ochs of Ochs Wax Pouring of Loveland then began his part of the process. Serving artists for more than 30 years, Ochs carefully separated the sculpted figures into sections and brushed on coats of rubber over the clay sculpture pieces, followed by a plaster mold. The sculpture was separated into 30 pieces. Wax was poured into the plaster molds followed by a silica sand mixture used to make ceramic shells over the wax forms as part of the “lost wax” process to be completed at the foundry.
Beach Day’s molds are now at Bronze Services of Loveland, Inc. where they are beginning the bronzing process. Known as the highest quality bronze fine art foundry in the U.S., the company utilizes top-of-the-line materials and specializes in the "lost wax" casting process, providing high-end service to acclaimed artists from around the world. Once the bronzing process is completed and the molds are removed, the 30 individual Beach Day sections will be carefully welded together and re-sculpted, using specialized tools to refine the piece to exactly match the original clay sculpture. The last step is to patina the finished five elements that comprise the sculpture.
“I like multi-colored patina in my sculptures that allows bright colors other than the traditional browns and ochres to be part of the finished look,“ Wardle said. “I think it adds visual excitement and heightened reality to my work.”
In addition to RCA’s first edition Beach Day sculpture, up to four other full-size sculptures are permitted to be cast by the artist. Including Wardle’s Beach Day, RCA’s public art program will feature a total of 17 pieces of art in its permanent collection.
The first RCA solo show for Salvador Rodriguez, celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, will be hosted in the Main Gallery. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes of the Texas Big Bend and the desert region of Texas and northern Mexico, Rodriguez conveys the sense of majesty of a panoramic view and tranquility of desert life on canvas. Each painting is a project of months or even years, beginning with a trip and study of the location, and ending in his work after adding compositions in skies, plants and rocks to give balance.
“Before creating even a plant, I like to study them and know them, including their ecosystem, as well as the history and myths of the place I am trying to capture in my works,” Rodriguez said. “So beyond trying to reproduce a photographic copy is a composition and re-creation of the essence of the place.”
Although he earned a degree in computer systems engineering, art has remained his passion. Rodriguez has worked with various mediums and techniques, including oil and watercolor, but uses acrylic on canvas most frequently since it dries quickly and allows him greater mobility. Since arriving in Austin, Texas, in 2015, Rodriguez has painted more than 36 works exhibited in various galleries and events, including both East and West Austin Studio tours.
“Epic and sublime are the best words to describe Rodriguez’s paintings,” said Elena Rodriguez, curator of exhibitions for RCA. “They convey the majesty of the West Texas region in stunning, hyperrealistic detail.”
Featured in RCA’s Galeria Dos, Ainsworth’s colorful On the Waterfront plein-air oil paintings capture the beauty and serenity of the Texas coast. A native of Wichita Falls, Texas, now living in Rockport, the artist says although most of her paintings are traditional representations, she is very comfortable with abstract, often breaking subjects into a contemporary abstract painting.
“I am inspired by painting en plein air,” Ainsworth said. “These paintings begin as abstract shapes and can be taken in many different directions. A painting starts in the artist’s brain as an emotional response to a scene or a moment. It is the artist’s goal to have the viewer of the finished work feel an excitement and an emotion.”
Painting, creating and thinking dominate Ainsworth’s life. Ainsworth began taking art courses while attending high school in Dallas, working with other student artists at the Dallas Art Museum, including some of the most prominent Texas artists of the time. After earning her science degree with a focus on geology from the University of Oklahoma, which was unusual for women at the time, and working for an oil company in Kansas, she eventually returned to Texas and revisited an old passion — oil painting.
Since 1995, she has continued to study and practice her craft, both oil and watercolor, in places such as Wichita, Kansas, and Colorado Springs, where she was part of the art community, as well as Long Island, N.Y. where she joined the prestigious Guild Hall of East Hampton. Ainsworth is a member of the Wind Way Gallery collective in Rockport, where she displays her works.
“The world seen through June Ainsworth’s eyes is one of color, shapes, and light,” said Elena Rodriguez. “The simplified forms evoke the easy-going way of life on the Texas Coast and the reason so many people fall in love with Rockport, Texas.”
Two Exhibitions Celebrating Two Iconic Texas Landscapes
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) is hosting two exhibitions Sept. 10–Oct. 9, contrasting two distinct areas of Texas: On the Waterfront, featuring the coastal-inspired paintings of June Ainsworth, as well as with Senderos del Desierto in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, featuring the incredibly realistic paintings by Salvador Rodriguez depicting regions of West Texas.
Both exhibitions will be viewable and available for collection at the downtown Rockport galleries. A public reception with the artists will be held Saturday, Sept. 11, from 5–7 p.m. to officially launch the show, which is free and open to the public. The event will be part of the Rockport Art Loop, a free, alfresco, walkable art experience from 5–7 p.m. featuring RCA and other galleries located in the downtown Rockport.
The first RCA solo show for Salvador Rodriguez, celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, will be hosted in the Main Gallery. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes of the Texas Big Bend and the desert region of Texas and northern Mexico, Rodriguez conveys the sense of majesty of a panoramic view and tranquility of desert life on canvas. Each painting is a project of months or even years, beginning with a trip and study of the location, and ending in his work after adding compositions in skies, plants and rocks to give balance.
“Before creating even a plant, I like to study them and know them, including their ecosystem, as well as the history and myths of the place I am trying to capture in my works,” Rodriguez said. “So beyond trying to reproduce a photographic copy is a composition and re-creation of the essence of the place.”
Although he earned a degree in computer systems engineering, art has remained his passion. Rodriguez has worked with various mediums and techniques, including oil and watercolor, but uses acrylic on canvas most frequently since it dries quickly and allows him greater mobility. Since arriving in Austin, Texas, in 2015, Rodriguez has painted more than 36 works exhibited in various galleries and events, including both East and West Austin Studio tours.
“Epic and sublime are the best words to describe Rodriguez’s paintings,” said Elena Rodriguez, curator of exhibitions for RCA. “They convey the majesty of the West Texas region in stunning, hyperrealistic detail.”
Featured in RCA’s Galeria Dos, Ainsworth’s colorful On the Waterfront plein-air oil paintings capture the beauty and serenity of the Texas coast. A native of Wichita Falls, Texas, now living in Rockport, the artist says although most of her paintings are traditional representations, she is very comfortable with abstract, often breaking subjects into a contemporary abstract painting.
“I am inspired by painting en plein air,” Ainsworth said. “These paintings begin as abstract shapes and can be taken in many different directions. A painting starts in the artist’s brain as an emotional response to a scene or a moment. It is the artist’s goal to have the viewer of the finished work feel an excitement and an emotion.”
Painting, creating and thinking dominate Ainsworth’s life. Ainsworth began taking art courses while attending high school in Dallas, working with other student artists at the Dallas Art Museum, including some of the most prominent Texas artists of the time. After earning her science degree with a focus on geology from the University of Oklahoma, which was unusual for women at the time, and working for an oil company in Kansas, she eventually returned to Texas and revisited an old passion — oil painting.
Since 1995, she has continued to study and practice her craft, both oil and watercolor, in places such as Wichita, Kansas, and Colorado Springs, where she was part of the art community, as well as Long Island, N.Y. where she joined the prestigious Guild Hall of East Hampton. Ainsworth is a member of the Wind Way Gallery collective in Rockport, where she displays her works.
“The world seen through June Ainsworth’s eyes is one of color, shapes, and light,” said Elena Rodriguez. “The simplified forms evoke the easy-going way of life on the Texas Coast and the reason so many people fall in love with Rockport, Texas.”
ARCHITECTS FOR NEW ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS RECOGNIZED FOR LIFETIME WORK
Texas Society of Architects awards Medal for Lifetime Achievement to Richter Architects
ROCKPORT, Texas (Aug, 18 2021) — As work continues on the new 22,000-square-foot Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) in the heart of downtown Rockport, designers of the new $8.7 million coastal contemporary facility, Richter Architects of Corpus Christi, have been recognized for their outstanding architectural achievements.
David Richter, FAIA, and Elizabeth Chu Richter, FAIA, have been awarded the Medal for Lifetime Achievement by The Texas Society of Architects, the highest honor bestowed by the organization. Presented annually, the award is given to a single member in recognition of a lifetime of distinguished leadership and outstanding achievements in support of the profession of architecture, the built environment, and quality of life in Texas. The pair will be recognized at the 82nd Annual Conference and Design Expo in San Antonio, October 7–9.
“We knew we made the right choice when selecting Richter Architects as our designer for the new Rockport Center for the Arts, and the announcement of this well-deserved award only bolsters the confidence we have in that decision” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “David and Elizabeth have been phenomenal to work with and their bold and contemporary design for our new facility is exactly what we had hoped for. We are building their vision of a beautiful, modern facility that will allow us to expand the breadth of our programs, including the performing arts and the culinary arts, as we work to attract more visitors and business tourism to Rockport.”
Partners in life and work for more than four decades, David and Elizabeth have made an indelible mark on the architectural profession and the state of Texas with their firm globally recognized as a design and sustainability leader whose work reflects intrinsic natural beauty, function, and cultural pride.
"Over the years, we've been so fortunate to have had many creative collaborations with clients with shared values. It is the best way, and maybe the only way, to make good architecture happen," said the Richters in a joint statement.
Together, they have dedicated countless hours to nonprofit groups, city planning agencies, and local organizations, both serving as presidents of their local chapter and the Texas Society of Architects, and championing several programs, including The Shape of Texas, Tour des Monuments, and the Consortium for Sustainability. In 2015, Chu Richter became only the fourth woman elected as president of the American Institute of Architects, also marking the first time a woman from Texas and an Asian American woman headed the organization.
The new $8.7 million RCA will be home to hallmark programs in the 14,000-square-foot visual arts and art education complex, an 8,000-square-foot performing arts facility and convention center featuring a culinary arts education kitchen and multiple break out rooms for meeting space, along with the sculpture garden housing works from the permanent collection by nationally and internationally recognized artists.
About Rockport Center for the Arts
Rockport Center for the Arts has moved temporarily to 401 S. Austin Street at the Baker Law Building, first floor, while awaiting the completion of a new facility in August 2022. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday and Sat from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. Visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519 for more information.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: Artist renderings of the new RCA are available at rockportartcenter.com/imagine for media download and use.
ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS ANNOUNCES NEW ACQUISITION BY CELEBRATED SCULPTOR KENT ULLBERG
Sculpture project the first announced for new arts facility slated for completion August 2022
Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced it has entered into an agreement to procure a new sculpture from Ullberg Studios, Inc.
Recognized as one of the world's foremost wildlife sculptors, Kent Ullberg is now a resident of Padre Island just east of Corpus Christi, Texas. Often inspired by nature and in this case, the wildlife of the Texas coast, Merry Time Romance will feature a pair of seahorses, scaled up from an original 19.5-inch mantel piece to a finished size of 8 feet and approximately 300 pounds.
Made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor, the bronze sculpture will be prominently displayed in the 16,000-square-foot outdoor sculpture garden of the new RCA campus currently under construction in the heart of downtown Rockport.
“Seahorses pair for life, and every morning the couple greets each other in intricate, rhythmic, pair-bonding dances, interpreted in my design with the upside-down heart,” said Ullberg. “At breeding time, the female then places her eggs in the male’s belly pouch, and the father carries the embryos through gestation until he gives birth to sometimes hundreds of babies.” Resident of the waters of the South Texas Coast, the lined seahorse (scientific name Hippocampus erectus) is a diurnal species with an approximate length of 15 centimeters and lifespan of one to four years.
There are 20 Ullberg sculptures currently on display in the Coastal Bend, including two already owned by RCA. Ullberg’s other sculptures in RCA’s permanent collection are Preening Heron, featuring an 5-foot tall abstracted bird, and Rites of Spring, his famed monumental 13-foot tall bronze sculpture of two whooping cranes that was the genesis of the original RCA sculpture garden located on Aransas Bay.
“The sculptures of Kent Ullberg are some of the most realistic and breathtakingly beautiful depictions of wildlife ever created,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “From his beautiful mantel pieces to the striking public monuments he has created, his work is recognized worldwide. We are so pleased to be adding yet another one of his magnificent pieces to our collection. I will be visiting Kent’s studio and the foundry where casts his work at the end of the month. It will take roughly a year to deliver the work, about the same time our new art campus is completed.”
The new $8.7 million RCA will be home to hallmark programs in the 14,000-square-foot visual arts and art education complex, an 8,000-square-foot performing arts facility and convention center featuring a culinary arts education kitchen and multiple break out rooms for meeting space, along with the sculpture garden housing works from the permanent collection by nationally and internationally recognized artists such as Ullberg.
A native of Sweden, Kent Ullberg is recognized as one of the world's foremost wildlife sculptors. He studied at the Swedish University College of Art in Stockholm and worked at museums in Germany, the Netherlands, France, Africa and Denver, Co. After living in Botswana, Africa, for seven years he has made his home permanently in the United States where he now lives on Padre Island, near Corpus Christi, Texas. He also maintains a studio in Loveland, Co.
Ullberg is a member of numerous art organizations and has been honored with many prestigious awards. In 1990 his peers elected him a Full Academician (NA), thus making him the first wildlife artist since John James Audubon to receive one of the greatest tributes in American art. A selection of his memberships include the National Sculpture Society; the American Society of Marine Art; the Allied Artists of America; Nature in Art, Sandhurst, UK; the National Academy of Western Art in Oklahoma City, Okla., which awarded him the Prix de West, the foremost recognition in Western Art. In 2010 he received the Briscoe Legacy Award and in 2016 the lifetime achievement award from the Society of Animal Artists.
Best known for his monumental works executed for museums and municipalities across the globe, his Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and his Omaha, Neb., installations are the largest bronze wildlife compositions ever done, spanning several city blocks. Both earned him the coveted Henry Hering Medal Award from the National Sculpture Society, NYC. His most recent monumental installation is "Snow-Mastodon," a life-size bronze Mastodon placed outside the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
About Rockport Center for the Arts
Rockport Center for the Arts has moved temporarily to 401 S. Austin Street at the Baker Law Building, first floor, while awaiting the completion of a new facility in August 2022. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday and Sat from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. Visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519 for more information.
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