MISSION ACCOMPLISHED SPEECH

Mission Accomplished Speech

By Luis Purón, Executive Director

Dec 10, 2022, 4 PM

The ROCC, 106 S. Austin St, Rockport, Texas

Good afternoon.  

My chief role today is to give thanks. 

I would like to thank our Imagine Capital Project partner- The City of Rockport.  The $5M grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) would not be possible without the commitment of 3 City of Rockport Mayors and 2 City Managers. I would like to recognize former Mayors C. J. Wax and Pat Rios, and current Mayor Tim Jayroe: former City Manager Kevin Carruth and current City Manager Vanessa Schrauner. Under Rios’ administration, the City also supported this project financially through HOT funds, to help offset grant administration costs.  Thank you all very much.

As the face of the Rockport Center or the Arts (RCA) I receive a lot of accolades that I accept only because I share them with a group of people, who have served as Presidents of the Board of Directors during my 8-year tenure.  Each had a profound influence on the project and an impact on my leadership style.

·         2015. The year of strategic planning.   Dr. Mitch Wess.  We recognize Mitch’s leadership in crafting the goals and direction for an expansion for a new campus dedicated to the Arts.

·         2016. The year of land acquisition. Terry Baiamonte.  We recognize Terry’s leadership and the efforts of Jack Wright and John Jackson for negotiating the acquisition of a 1-acre tract of land in the heart of our City; Jeanie Whitliff from American Bank for lending us the funds to close the real estate transaction, and City of Rockport Mayor CJ Wax and City Manager Kevin Carruth for allowing us to turn North Street into a beautiful pedestrian walkway that ties the campus together.

·         2017. The year of our renaissance from the great storm. Jean Giesey.  We recognize Jean’s leadership in finalizing total loss insurance claims that became the $1M angel gift for a capital campaign and for spearheading an ambitious “100 day-We are Open for Business Plan” that allowed us to restore Kline’s Cafe, which opened to the public 99 days after the storm.  Thanks to her leadership, not a single event or program was cancelled despite not having a place to operate for three months.

·         2018. The year of the Imagine Capital Campaign. Hugh Morrison. We recognize Hugh’s leadership and that of the Imagine Capital Campaign team chaired by Mary Hime that raised the $4M match required to make the EDA grant a reality.  The funds were raised in less than a year. Hugh attended hundreds of hours of disaster recovery meetings to explore and materialize opportunities for RCA. We also recognize the efforts of Judge Burt Mills and John Strothman from Aransas County’s Long-Term Recovery team for making the staff and resources available to write the $5M EDA grant.

·         2019. The year of our 50th Anniversary. Hugh Morrison. We recognize Hugh’s leadership, and that of United States Representative Michael Cloud and EDA Regional Director Jorge Ayala to ink the deal for the grant in March 2019.  Hugh also led the building design efforts that led to retaining Richter Architects; and the construction estimating process that led to retaining Teal Construction Company as the general contractor.

·         2020. The year construction started.  Mary Hime. We recognize Mary’s leadership of the organization through the pandemic, the most challenging operations year in our 50-year history. Despite the pandemic we managed to finish the year with a 6-figure surplus. Mary also spearheaded the relocation plan for Kline’s Cafe that was completed March 31, 2020.  We recognize the assistance from local historians: Cheryl Livingston; Ty Husak; Betty Stiles; Pam Stranahan; Monica Burdette; and Anne Hunt.  A million thanks to our dear friend Lilly Wilkinson and her husband Don who moved Kline’s Cafe which did not crack, yet neither did they under tremendous pressure. We recognize Ron Meyeres who acquired the building from RCA and added it to Rockport’s tax base, increasing density in the business sector. Under Mary’s term construction started April 6, 2020.

·         2021. The year of exponential growth. Rebecca Bridges Rice.  We recognize Rebecca’s leadership for staying the course as construction continued.  Under her guidance, RCA experienced the most successful financial year in our long history.  Rebecca made a concerted effort to improve the art education program for adult learners and artists which became the benchmark for Master Class offerings in the new facilities.

·         2022. The year the Imagine Capital Campaign and Capital Project ended. Stan Smith.  We recognize Stan’s leadership in closing the gap between the funds needed to pay for the $12.5M capital project and developing membership initiatives to grow our base.  At the end of 2021 RCA had 550 members, as of today we have 820. During his term, construction on this building, The ROCC, was completed on Nov. 9. Construction on the RCA building was completed Dec. 6.

I predict that 2023 will be the year of fulfillment of our founding member’s vision. Our incoming president is Larry Beavers.  With 22,000 sf of new space, and state-of-the-art facilities, every program our founding Fathers and Mothers envisioned in 1969 will have dedicated space.  We recognize founding member and local art legend, Steve Russell, for dreaming big.  

We recognize the 30 Rockport Art Festival Master Artists that since 1993 have helped sustain our growth. This tradition started with the great Harold Phenix and will feature the great Swedish Master Kent Ullberg next summer.

We recognize the Capital Project Team who have dedicated their time, effort, professionalism, and experience:

·         The City of Rockport.

·         David Richter, Elizabeth Chu Richter and Aaron Geiser with Richter Architects.

·         John Murray and his team at Teal Construction Company; and

·         GrantWorks, Inc who is managing the EDA grant.

A very special thank you to the following volunteers to the Capital Project Team for their dedication, commitment, and support:

·         Jim D’Imperio who managed the technology efforts for the entire campus.

·         Lucy Nye who managed interior design and furniture acquisition.

·         Hugh Morrison, who managed the insurance requirements for the campus, helping us meet an important grant requirement.

·         Jean Giesey, Sandy D’Imperio and Kimmi Moake who managed the culinary arts kitchen equipment acquisition.

·         Mary Hime who managed the financials for the capital project.  We are proud to report that we have finished the project with 0 debt.

·         And finally, to Larry Beavers for his spot-on management of the construction project, representing RCA. Larry, we could not have done it without you.

We recognize the principal donors to the Imagine Capital Campaign. Through their gifts, they continue to champion the Arts in Rockport with their philanthropy, never doubting, not even for one second, that we would get to the end: Roxann Day of Barrow Foundation; Lisa Baer and John Paul Frederick; John and Mary Willrodt; Dora and Pat McKelvey; Suzie Black, Al Johnson and John Jackson of the Margaret Sue Rust Foundation; and the Rachal Foundation. I have named only those that are present today, there are many more acknowledged in the individual spaces in both buildings such as Randy Ewing Kemper Hall- the room you are sitting in right now.  And to the 96 members of the Foundation Circle, we call the 50ROCK Society! Their gifts totaled over $1.4M dollars.  These gifts built this campus, please give them a warm round of applause. 

I recognize My Operations and Programs Team. I’ll start with the best disaster recovery sisters one could ever have: Karen Ernst and Elena Rodriguez. They have been with RCA longer than I have. They continue to support me with their creativity, dedication, and ideas.  To the newer members of the Team: Paulette Kluge, Kathleen Clark, Kim Ivey, and Brooke Bruni.  These women turn the cogs that make our machine work week in and week out.

We would like to thank the members of the press for telling our story and our publicist Sarona Winfrey for arranging their visit.

A heartfelt thank you to my family and friends. To my dear Mother María, who for 59 years she has molded me into the man I have become- determined, direct, idealistic, and passionate.  She waits patiently as I continue to pursue a 40+ year career in the business world.  There is no light without her.  To the other members of my family, thank you for being here and for your love and support.

Finally, to our membership and RCA Board of Directors. As we continue our journey, I have 4 promises for you:

·         I will run this non-profit like a business.

·         I will exceed my own expectations.

·         I will inspire others to do the same; and

·         I will bring more beauty to South Texas.

 

Rockport, Texas - Mission Accomplished!

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS CAMPUS FACT SHEET

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS — CAMPUS FACT SHEET

Rockport Center for the Arts

204 S. Austin Street, Rockport, TX 78382

(361) 729-5519 rockportartcenter.com

Size: 14,000 SF / two-story building

Purpose:  Visual Arts, Art Education, Administration

Main Features: 

·         $12.5 million campus in downtown Rockport opened Dec.10, 2022

·         First original construction for the non-profit organization (est. 1969)

·         Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m.; admission is always free

·         Five galleries: 1,600-square-foot H-E-B Gallery and 850-square-foot McKelvey Charitable Fund Gallery, variety of exhibitions, upper level; 500-square-foot Jeanie and Bill Wyatt Gallery, small-scale sculptures, upper level; 850-square-foot Mendez Family Gallery, permanent member artist exhibition area, main level; John and Mary Willrodt Gift Shop: member artists’ handmade works including jewelry, pottery, paper craft (cards and prints), and fabric art

·         Five classrooms: Fernandes Family Studio, main classroom for advanced workshops; Bill Hildebrand & Sam Williams Ceramic Studio, main classroom for advanced clay workshops; Margaret Sue Rust Foundation Studio; the June Ainsworth Studio; the Bridgie & John Barrett Studio

·         Public can sign up online for hands-on classes and workshops including painting/drawing, jewelry, photography, mixed-media, sculpture, clay, and new media

·         The Brown Foundation Executive Suite: administration offices and work areas, Castaways Thrift Store Privées, and the Robert E. Miller Lift

·         Kelly and Scott Biar Terrace: 450-square-foot rooftop terrace with views of the bay and Sculpture Garden below

·         The Meadows Foundation Loggia: wrap-around porch connecting the entire building

 

The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC) 

106 S. Austin Street, Rockport TX 78382

(361) 729-5519 the-rocc.com

Size: 8,000 SF / one-story building

Purpose: Business Conferences and Meetings, Expos, Galas, Events, Culinary Arts, Performing Arts, Media and Literary Arts

Main Features: 

·         Randy Ewing Kemper Hall: 4,400-square-foot ballroom, partitions to break into four spaces

·         The Estelle Stair Foyer: 1,400-square-foot foyer and reception area

·         A 900-square-foot AEP Foundation Culinary Arts Kitchen for catering and education

·         State-of-the-art audiovisual and Wi-Fi throughout

·         Home of the Rockport Film Festival, Silver Meltdown Runway Show, Clay Expo Weekend, Performing Arts Series, and Culinary Series

·         Contact Darryl Meadows for information and booking: (361) 450-8033, or darryl@the-rocc.com 

 

Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden

Size: 16,000 SF

Purpose: Exterior green space providing connectivity between the two buildings and featuring 11 sculptural works from RCA’s permanent collection of 23

Main Features: 

·         Reliant, an NRG Company, Promenade weaves throughout the garden, an art sidewalk connecting visitors to various sculptures including the 21-foot hallmark piece by Jesús Moroles, Lighthouse Fountain

·         Extension of the visual arts program through the display of sculptural work by artists of regional, national and international renown

·         Green spaces, water features, bench seating

·         Exterior performing arts and event space with state-of-the-art audio

Featured Sculptures: Merry Time Romance, 2021, and Kingfisher, 2012, Kent Ullberg; Man’s Best Friend, 1999, Michael Atkinson; Moonscape, 2014, Lighthouse Fountain, 2002, and Interlocking, 1985, Jesús Moroles; Uccelli (Birds of St. Francis), 1972, Charles Umlauf; Walking White Flower, 2011, James Surls; The Inevitable Question, The Lure of Simple Inclinations, and The False Shadow of Transformation, 2016, Danville Chadbourne; Days, 2009, Mark Williamson; and Espinazo, 2024, Greg Reuter

 

Parking 

On-Site: 30 spaces directly behind the facility

Offsite Lot: 60 spaces, intersection of Magnolia and North streets, one block from the RCA campus

Street Parking: 37 spaces in immediate vicinity along Austin and Water streets

 

State-of the-Art Facilities

·         Designed by award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi

·         General contractor, Teal Construction Company of Houston and Corpus Christi

·         Installation/services from Network Cabling Services of Houston, and Layer One Networks of Corpus Christi (telephone, audio visual, structured cabling, Wi-Fi integration, and campus-wide security monitoring)

·         Resilient concrete and steel construction, exceeding FEMA hurricane requirements

·         Dedicated fiber optic cable line for high-speed internet throughout the campus

·         Underground electrical utilities

·         Back-up internet services for the entire campus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 1/2025

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Vanessa Ormsby, RCA Communications Manager

(361) 320-2064 / vanessa@rockportartcenter.com

 

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

State-of-the-art campus attracting thousands of visitors annually to seaside community

 

ROCKPORT, Texas — Located one block from Aransas Bay, the Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) serves as the home to hallmark art exhibitions and programs.

 

Attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually, the 1.2-acre campus features a 14,000-square-foot visual arts and art education building, The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC), an adjacent 8,000-square-foot conference and event center; and the 16,000-square-foot Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden.

 

“We are so proud of this amazing campus, a true gem in the heart of downtown Rockport” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “Our membership, the community, and others throughout Texas at large were so supportive of our efforts to rebuild following the destruction brought by Hurricane Harvey in 2017; this is a testament to their efforts and we are so grateful.”

 

A partnership with the City of Rockport and the first original facility to be built for the celebrated non-profit organization since its founding in 1969, RCA officially opened on December 11, 2022. Award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi designed the new coastal contemporary facility, with Teal Construction Company, of Houston and Corpus Christi, serving as the general contractor for the project.

 

Serving as the focal point of the $12.5-million campus is the visual arts and art education building featuring five galleries and five classrooms. Three of the RCA galleries are located on the upper level, including the 1,600-square-foot H-E-B Gallery, the largest of the five spaces, and the 850-square-foot McKelvey Charitable Fund Gallery, both of which host a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. Also on the upper level is the 500-square-foot Jeanie and Bill Wyatt Gallery, featuring small-scale sculptures. The 850-square-foot Mendez Family Gallery is located on the main level, serving as the permanent exhibition area for member artists, along with the John and Mary Willrodt Gift Shop featuring only handmade works from member artists. 

“Having multiple galleries allows us to showcase a variety of exhibitions at any given time while providing us the opportunity to focus more on the individual artists and their work,” said Purón, “The spaces will be ever-changing; nothing is permanent. The walls are very tall with no windows, allowing great flexibility in our displays and everything on campus is state of the art, including beautiful lighting capabilities and a great audio-visual setup that we can incorporate into the exhibitions.”

 

RCA features and highlights include:

·         Five spacious classrooms on the main level dedicated to the making of art: the Fernandes Family Studio, the main classroom for advanced workshops; the Margaret Sue Rust Foundation Studio; the June Ainsworth Studio; the Bridgie & John Barrett Studio; and the Bill Hildebrand & Sam Williams Ceramic Studio, the main classroom for advanced clay workshops

·         Home to Art Education programs, the public can sign up online for hands-on RCA classes and workshops including painting/drawing, jewelry, photography, mixed-media, sculpture, clay, and new media

·         The 16,000-square-foot Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden with greenery, water features, bench seating and 10 works from the RCA permanent collection of 23 by artists with state, national and international recognition

·         The 450-square-foot Kelly and Scott Biar Terrace, provides beautiful rooftop views of the bay and garden below

·         The John and Mary Willrodt Gift Shop, featuring only handmade works from member artists including jewelry, pottery, paper craft (cards and prints), and fabric art  

·         A 60-space surface parking area located one block away at 101 N. Magnolia St., with parking spaces also available on surrounding streets

 

For information, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook and Instagram, or call (361) 729-5519.

 

About Rockport Center for the Arts

The new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts, the Coastal Bend’s first multidisciplinary arts organization, is located a block from Aransas Bay in the heart of the Rockport Cultural Arts District. Designed by the award-winning team at Richter Architects, the state-of-the-art campus features a two-story, 14,000-square-foot, visual arts and education building with four galleries and five classrooms (204 S. Austin St.); The Rockport Conference Center, a one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center, known as The ROCC, (106 S. Austin St.); with a 16,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden serving as a visually inspiring transition space between the two buildings. The hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. For information on event space, or to book an event, call (361) 450-8033. For general information and to become a member, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519.

 

About The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC)

Located at 106 S. Austin St. on the 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts campus is The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC). Perfect for small conferences and board meetings, team-building events, family reunions, wedding receptions and more, the one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center features a 4,400-square-foot ballroom (Randy Ewing Kemper Hall), 1,400-square-foot reception area (Estelle Stair Foyer), a fully equipped catering and culinary arts kitchen, and state-of-the-art AV and Wi-Fi throughout. For general information or to book an event, visit the-rocc.com, or call (361) 450-8033.

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01/2025

A GARDEN DESIGNED TO GROW IMAGINATION AND INSPIRATION

MEDIA CONTACT:

Vanessa Ormsby, RCA Communications Manager

(361) 320-2064 / vanessa@rockportartcenter.com

 

A GARDEN DESIGNED TO GROW IMAGINATION AND INSPIRATION

 

ROCKPORT, Texas — Gardens come in all shapes and sizes, including the Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden, part of the 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) campus in downtown Rockport. The 16,000-square-foot garden blooms year-round with 11 sculptural works from the RCA permanent collection of 23, featuring artists with state, national, and international recognition.

 

“The Sculpture Garden concept was established at RCA back in 2000 with the acquisition of our first piece, Rites of Spring by Kent Ullberg,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “The acquisition was made possible through a generous grant from the Margaret Sue Rust Foundation, before the passing of Mrs. Rust. The sculpture was unveiled on her birthday. Since that time, we have continued to collect amazing works by some of the art world’s most renowned sculptors.”

 

Award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi designed the coastal contemporary RCA facility, including the garden. Complete with greenery, water features, and five granite benches designed and created by sculptor Jesús Moroles and Moroles Art Co., the space is often utilized by guests for relaxation and contemplation, while also serving as a desirable setting for special events and gatherings. The garden also provides a visually inspiring transitional space between the two-story, 14,000-square-foot visual arts and education building and The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC), an adjacent one-story, 8,000-square-foot event space.

 

The current 11 works featured in the garden are Merry Time Romance, 2021, and Kingfisher, 2012, Kent Ullberg; Man’s Best Friend, 1999, Michael Atkinson; Moonscape, 2014, Lighthouse Fountain, 2002, and Interlocking, 1985, Jesús Moroles; Uccelli (Birds of St. Francis), 1972, Charles Umlauf; Walking White Flower, 2011, James Surls; the triptych The Inevitable Question, The Lure of Simple Inclinations, and The False Shadow of Transformation, 2016, Danville Chadbourne; Days, 2009, Mark Williamson; and Espinazo, 2024, Greg Reuter.

 

Additional sculptures from the RCA permanent collection are placed throughout Rockport helping to beautify the downtown area and create a dialogue that ties into the on-campus sculpture garden:

·         Beach Day, 2022, Kathy Wardle; Austin Street Red, 2021, and Spirit of Rockport, 2019, Nic Noblique, strategically placed along S. Austin St.

·         The Last Man Standing, 2023, Andy Sacksteder; at Veterans Memorial Park 

·         Spirit Columns, 1998, Jesus Moroles; waterfront on the south end of Little Bay

·         Rites of Spring, 2000, and Preening Heron, 2017, Kent Ullberg; Return of Ancient Wisdom, 2008, Leo Osborne; Off Port Bow, 2009, Sandy Scott; and Into the Wind, 2011, Jane DeDecker; located at RCA’s former location on Navigation Circle, adjacent to Aransas Bay

 

Future placements include Guy Clark Folk Heart, 2024, Greg Reuter, in the sculpture garden and Summer Showers, 2023, George Lundeen, to be displayed at Celebration Plaza of the new Aransas County Courthouse currently under construction.

 

For information, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook and Instagram, or call (361) 729-5519.

 

About Rockport Center for the Arts

The new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts, the Coastal Bend’s first multidisciplinary arts organization, is located a block from Aransas Bay in the heart of the Rockport Cultural Arts District. Designed by the award-winning team at Richter Architects, the state-of-the-art campus features a two-story, 14,000-square-foot, visual arts and education building with four galleries and five classrooms (204 S. Austin St.); The Rockport Conference Center, a one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center, known as The ROCC, (106 S. Austin St.); with a 16,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden serving as a visually inspiring transition space between the two buildings. The hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. For information on event space, or to book an event, call (361) 450-8033. For general information and to become a member, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519.

 

About The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC)

Located at 106 S. Austin St. on the 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts campus is The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC). Perfect for small conferences and board meetings, team-building events, family reunions, wedding receptions, performances and more, the one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center features a 4,400-square-foot ballroom (Randy Ewing Kemper Hall), 1,400-square-foot reception area (Estelle Stair Foyer), a fully equipped catering and culinary arts kitchen, and state-of-the-art AV and Wi-Fi throughout. For general information or to book an event, visit the-rocc.com, or call (361) 450-8033.

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           01/2025

RCA Sculpture Permanent Collection

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

PERMANENT COLLECTION / SCULPTURES (23)

 

CURRENT PLACEMENTS:

Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden (11)

Merry Time Romance, 2021, and Kingfisher, 2012, Kent Ullberg

Man’s Best Friend, 1999, Michael Atkinson

Moonscape, 2014, Lighthouse Fountain, 2002, and Interlocking, 1985, Jesús Moroles

Uccelli (Birds of St. Francis), 1972, Charles Umlauf with Granite base by Jesús Moroles

Walking White Flower, 2011, James Surls

Days, 2009, Mark Williamson

The Inevitable Question, The Lure of Simple Inclinations, and The False Shadow of Transformation, 2016, Danville Chadbourne

Espinazo, 2024, Greg Reuter

 

S. Austin Street (3)

Austin Street Red, 2021, and Spirit of Rockport, 2019, Nic Noblique

Beach Day, 2022, Kathy Wardle

 

Veterans Memorial Park (1)

The Last Man Standing, 2023, by Andy Sacksteder

 

Little Bay/waterfront (1)

Spirit Columns, 1998 by Jesus Moroles

 

Navigation Circle/Aransas Bay (5)

Rites of Spring, 2000, and Preening Heron, 2017, Kent Ullberg

Return of Ancient Wisdom, 2008, Leo Osborne

Off Port Bow, 2009 Sandy Scott

Into the Wind, 2011 by Jane DeDecker

 

PLANNED PLACEMENTS:

Aransas County Courthouse (1)

Summer Showers, 2023, George Lundeen

 

Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden (1)

Guy Clark Folk Heart, 2024, Greg Reuter

THE ROCC ON A ROLL WITH MEETING AND EVENT BOOKINGS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Vanessa Ormsby, RCA Communications Manager

(361) 320-2064 / vanessa@rockportartcenter.com

 

THE ROCC ON A ROLL WITH MEETING AND EVENT BOOKINGS

The Rockport Conference Center provides a boost to local cultural scene and economy 

ROCKPORT, Texas — The vision behind a modern new conference and event center in Rockport was to create a facility that would take art programs to new levels while expanding offerings to include the culinary and performing arts, meetings, conferences, and special events. The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC) has accomplished that and more, hosting dozens of public and private events and providing a boost to the local economy.

A partnership between Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) and The City of Rockport, The ROCC has created a new segment of tourism, generating more than 1,000 new visitors to the area every quarter since hosting its inaugural event, The Rockport Film Festival, in November of 2022.

 

“Although Rockport is a popular tourist destination, we were excited by the prospect of increasing business tourism to our area,” said Darryl Meadows, venue manager for The ROCC. “Socially, we enrich the lives of our guests and event participants, while economically, we serve our community through increased revenue to area businesses as visitors spend on dining, hotel, and shopping during their stay.”

The 8,000-square-foot conference center is located on RCA’s 1.2-acre campus adjacent to Aransas Bay in the heart of downtown, part of the $12.5 million RCA capital project that also established the adjacent 14,000-square-foot visual arts and education building which officially opened in December 2022, hosting a variety of art exhibitions and classes throughout the year.  

Conveniently located within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, attractions, nightlife, and Rockport Beach on the Texas Gulf Coast, The ROCC has hosted weddings and family events, corporate functions, in-service trainings, banquets, educational summits, book readings, team building seminars,  board meetings and retreats. It is also home to the Rockport Film Festival, Silver Meltdown Runway Show, Clay Expo Weekend, Performing Arts Series, and Culinary Series.

The ROCC offers a variety of meeting spaces, including Randall Ewing Kemper Hall, a 4,400-square-foot ballroom, which can be configured into four smaller breakout rooms; the 1,300-square-foot Estelle Stair Foyer. In addition to the formal event space, a rooftop terrace in the visual arts building, and the adjacent 16,000-square-foot Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden, featuring 11 sculptural works by artists with state, national, and international recognition, can also be utilized. Many amenities are also included, such as Wi-Fi, tables and chairs, and standard AV and support.

 

“The ROCC is quickly establishing itself as a premiere conference facility here in the Coastal Bend with its multi-use space and state-of-the-art technology,” said Meadows. “Having this beautiful meeting space on the RCA campus provides so many opportunities to those looking for something out of the ordinary and It’s exciting to be part of what draws people to our community.”

 

As a creative space beginning with the end in mind, events at The ROCC are custom-designed to create an immersive, inspirational experience, including arranging for or otherwise assisting clients with preferred vendors, including catering, advanced AV/technical, entertainment, excursions to local attractions, valet parking, lodging — even hands-on art and culinary experiences — to create the perfect event.

 

“This is a place where guests can escape their everyday routines and encounter one another in new ways: surrounded by thought-provoking art, stimulated by creative excursions and activities, and delighted by local cuisine,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “The ROCC provides a canvas for groups of all shapes and sizes to create the masterpiece event they envision.”

 

For information and booking events at The ROCC, contact venue manager Darryl Meadows by calling (361) 450-8033 or at darryl@the-rocc.com.

 

About Rockport Center for the Arts

The new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts, the Coastal Bend’s first multidisciplinary arts organization, is located a block from Aransas Bay in the heart of the Rockport Cultural Arts District. Designed by the award-winning team at Richter Architects, the state-of-the-art campus features a two-story, 14,000-square-foot, visual arts and education building with four galleries and five classrooms (204 S. Austin St.); The Rockport Conference Center, a one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center, known as The ROCC, (106 S. Austin St.); with a 16,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden serving as a visually inspiring transition space between the two buildings. The hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop are Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. For information on event space, or to book an event, call (361) 450-8033. For general information and to become a member, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519.

 

About The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC)

Located at 106 S. Austin St. on the 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts campus is The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC). Perfect for small conferences and board meetings, team-building events, family reunions, wedding receptions and more, the one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center features a 4,400-square-foot ballroom (Randy Ewing Kemper Hall), 1,400-square-foot reception area (Estelle Stair Foyer), a fully equipped catering and culinary arts kitchen, and state-of-the-art AV and Wi-Fi throughout. For general information or to book an event, visit the-rocc.com, or call (361) 450-8033.

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01/2025

OPENING PLANS ANNOUNCED FOR NEW $12.5 MILLION ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

ROCKPORT, Texas (Nov. 28, 2022) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced official opening plans for its new 14,000-square-foot visual arts and education building located at 204 S. Austin St. in the heart of downtown Rockport. 

The new RCA, a partnership with the City of Rockport, will officially open to the public on Sunday, Dec. 11, at noon, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and invitation-only activities taking place Saturday evening, Dec. 10, as part of the Rockport Center for the Arts Grand Opening Festivities, presented by PNC Bank. 

“We are so pleased and proud to be opening this amazing new facility,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “Our membership, the community, and others throughout Texas at large have been so supportive of our efforts to rebuild following the destruction brought by Hurricane Harvey in 2017; this is a testament to their efforts and we are so grateful.”  

With its Dec. 11 opening, RCA begins its new expanded operating hours for the galleries and gift shop: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday from noon–4 p.m. Admission is always free. The Dec.10 invitation-only event will begin at The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC) on the new RCA campus at 4 p.m., featuring remarks by state and local dignitaries commemorating the completion of the project. Scheduled guest speakers include State Representative Todd Hunter; Aransas County Judge C.H. “Burt” Mills; City of Rockport Mayor Tim Jayroe; U.S. Economic Development Administration Regional Director Jorge Ayala; Aransas County Partnership EDC President Jeffrey Sjostrom; Richter Architects President David Richter; Teal Construction Company President John Murray; Rockport Center for the Arts Executive Director Luis Purón, and PNC Commercial Banking Relationship Manager Kirk Bourland. There will also be a ceremonial ribbon cutting around 5 p.m., followed by a reception for invited guests and the nearly 800 RCA members.  

“In the best and in the most challenging of times, communities grow and succeed when they come together,” said Susana Melendez-Valencia, PNC regional president for the Texas border. “There is no other experience that can bring us all together as one community quite like the arts. As a National Main Street bank, PNC has long recognized the power of the arts and culture and the role it plays in improving the quality of life in a community.” 

Located one block from Aransas Bay, the 1.2-acre site is the first original facility to be built for the celebrated 53-year-old non-profit organization. Award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi designed the new coastal contemporary facility, with Teal Construction Company, of Houston and Corpus Christi, serving as the general contractor for the project. 

The new $12.5 million campus includes the two-story, 14,000-square-foot visual arts and art education building, serving as the home to hallmark art programs with four spacious galleries and five classrooms, as well as The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC), an adjacent 8,000-square-foot conference and event center on the RCA campus, which hosted the Nov. 10–13 Rockport Film Festival as its inaugural event. 

Three of the RCA galleries will be located on the upper level of the visual arts and education building, including the 1,600-square-foot HEB Gallery, the largest of the four spaces, and the 850-square-foot McKelvey Charitable Fund Gallery, both of which will host a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. Also on the upper level is the 500-square-foot Jeanie and Bill Wyatt Gallery, featuring small-scale sculptures. The 850-square-foot Mendez Family Gallery is located on the main level and will serve as the permanent exhibition area for member artists. 

“Having four galleries allows us to have multiple exhibitions at a time while giving us the opportunity to focus more on the individual artists and their work,” said Elena Rodriguez, curator of exhibitions for Rockport Center for the Arts. “And everything here is state of the art. The walls are very tall with no windows, giving us great flexibility in our displays, with beautiful lighting capabilities and a great audio-visual setup allowing us to incorporate those elements into the exhibitions. The spaces will be ever-changing; nothing is permanent.”

The two inaugural shows feature RCA member artists: The Big Wave!, the annual all-members exhibition formerly known as Currents, showcasing the work of 170 of RCA’s member artists in the HEB Gallery; along with Standing Out 2022, a merit show in the McKelvey Gallery featuring the work of member artists Alison Schuchs, Jim Blaylock and Shelly Wierzba, selected as Merit Artists by a juror from last year’s all-members exhibition. Both shows will run into January 2023. 

Other RCA features and highlights include: 

  • Five spacious classrooms on the main level dedicated to the making of art: the Fernandes Family Studio, the main classroom for advanced workshops; the Margaret Sue Rust Foundation Studio; the June Ainsworth Studio; the Bridgie & John Barrett Studio; and the Bill Hildebrand & Sam Williams Ceramic Studio, the main classroom for advanced clay workshops. Home to Art Education programs, the public can sign up online for hands-on classes and workshops including painting/drawing, jewelry, photography, mixed-media, sculpture, clay, and new media.

  • The 16,000-square-foot Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden with greenery, water features, bench seating and nine works from the RCA permanent collection by artists with state, national and international recognition.

  • The 450-square-foot Kelly and Scott Biar Terrace, providing beautiful rooftop views of the bay and garden below.

  • The Mary and John Willrodt Gift Shop, featuring only handmade works from member artists including jewelry, pottery, paper craft (cards and prints), and some fabric art.

  • A new 60-space surface parking area located one block away at 101 N. Magnolia St., with parking spaces also available on surrounding streets.

For general information, visit rockportartcenter.com, follow RCA on Facebook, or call (361) 729-5519. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Click here for select photos of the new Rockport Center for the Arts campus. Photo credit: Pam Fulcher.

About Rockport Center for the Arts

Slated for a December 2022 opening, the new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts is located a block away from Aransas Bay in the heart of downtown Rockport. The new state-of-the-art campus features a two-story, 14,000-square-foot, visual arts and education building with four galleries and five classrooms (204 S. Austin St.); a one-story, 8,000-square-foot conference and event center, known as The ROCC, including a 4,400-square-foot ballroom and culinary arts kitchen (106 S. Austin St.); with a 16,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden serving as a visually inspiring transition space between the two buildings. Hours of operation for the showroom, galleries, and gift shop will be Tuesday–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 Paulette Kluge at (361) 960-2090.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS WITH AN ARTISTIC FLAIR AT THE ROCKPORT CONFERENCE CENTER

Bookings underway; inaugural event scheduled for Nov. 10

 

Construction is now substantially complete on The Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC), an 8,000-square-foot meeting and event space located on the new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) campus in the heart of downtown Rockport. The City of Rockport is a partner in the RCA project.

The first event scheduled at The ROCC is the Rockport Film Festival, presented by Salemi’s Ace Hardware, Nov. 10–13. The sold-out, ticketed Red Carpet Event scheduled for Thursday evening, Nov. 10, in The ROCC ballroom will be followed by three days of film screenings and events also held on-site.

Photo by Pam Fulcher

Located only steps away from Aransas Bay, The ROCC offers a variety of meeting space and amenities, including Randall Ewing Kemper Hall, a 4,400-square-foot ballroom, which can be configured into four smaller breakout rooms; a 1,300-square-foot foyer; and a flexible catering and culinary arts education kitchen.

Part of the new $12.5 million RCA campus, which will be home to hallmark art programs in the adjacent 14,000-square-foot visual arts and education building slated to open by year’s end, The ROCC is conveniently within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, attractions, nightlife, and Rockport Beach on the Texas Gulf Coast.  

“Our new, modern facilities will allow us to take our art programs to amazing new levels while expanding our offerings to include the culinary and performing arts, meetings, conferences and special events,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “Having this beautiful new meeting space on our campus provides so many opportunities to those looking for something truly different. And although Rockport provides any number of tourism offerings, we are excited by the prospect of increasing business tourism to our area, which has been lacking until now.”

Billed as a creative space beginning with the end in mind, events at The ROCC can be custom designed with each client to create an immersive, inspirational experience, from smaller corporate conferences, board meetings, and executive retreats to special events, including galas, weddings, and fundraisers. In addition to the formal event space, a rooftop terrace in the visual arts building, and the 16,000-square-foot Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden, featuring nine sculptural works by artists with state, national, and international recognition, can also be utilized.

"This venue is beyond the typical meeting space; we are the boutique event destination and are here to facilitate incredibly memorable events, whether it’s for family and friends, or co-workers and clients,” said Paulette Kluge, venue manager for The ROCC. “The space is wonderful from a technical aspect and unmatched creatively by anything in our area. We can do a wedding ceremony in the sculpture garden, cocktail parties on the upstairs terrace complete with coastal views, live entertainment with theater-style seating, or team-building events such as painting taught by local artists.”

RCA contracted with National Cabling Service of Houston to design and install a $300,000 structured cabling system providing comprehensive telecommunications services throughout the RCA campus.  Standard amenities in The ROCC include Wi-Fi throughout, state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities, such as built-in cameras for conferencing and presentations, strategic permanent speaker placement with acoustical clouds in the ceiling for superb sound, a 13-by-9-foot drop-down projection screen, and stage lighting. Special attention was also given to other details of the project including appliances and equipment for the culinary arts kitchen, as well as furnishings. 

While many amenities are included in the rental fee, such as Wi-Fi, standard AV and support, commercial grade power, tables and chairs, complimentary parking, as well as set-up/tear-down, The ROCC can also arrange for or otherwise assist clients with preferred vendors, including catering, AV/technical, entertainment, local excursions, valet parking, and lodging, to create the perfect event. In an effort to consistently provide concierge-level service, The ROCC will limit bookings to only one event per day.   

“The ROCC provides a canvas for groups of all shapes and sizes to create the masterpiece event they envision,” said Purón. “This is where they can escape their everyday routines and encounter one another in new ways: immersed in sunrise vistas, surrounded by thought-provoking art, stimulated by creative excursions, and delighted by local cuisine.”

 

Members Only Sneak Peek Event - Get Ready!

Come Take a Look at the New Rockport Center for the Arts!

 

Dear Supporter of the Arts:
 
I am very happy to announce that completion of our capital project is near the end!   

Because we value your support, we will be celebrating this accomplishment with a sneak peek event formembers only. On Monday of next week at 5 PM, members will receive an email from me with the date and time for the sneak peek that will be taking place next month.


If your membership has lapsed or your email has changed, now is the time to renew so that you can be added to the invitation list for the sneak peek. If you have never had a membership, there has never been a better time to join. Expanded programs, spaces designed with an intended purpose, state-of-the-art facilities and more is what the New Rockport Center for the Arts has to offer. Members will be able to take part in events and activities offered free or at discounted rates.

To check the status of your membership, call 361-729-5519 or email brooke@rockportartcenter.com. To purchase a membership visit us online at https://www.rockportartcenter.com/membership.

See you soon!

Luis Purón
Executive Director

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS ANNOUNCES NEW JESÚS MOROLES ACQUISITION

Former local sculptor’s “Moonscape” to be installed in Rockport Center for the Arts’ Sculpture Garden

 

Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) today announced it is acquiring a granite work by internationally recognized sculptor Jesús Moroles. Moonscape (2014) will be added to eight other works to be displayed in the Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden, part of the new 1.2-acre RCA campus slated for a December public opening.

Made possible through a generous contribution from Riki Rushing and Allen Gilmer to honor Bernice Bohman, Rushing's grandmother, Moonscape stands just over 6 feet tall and weighs 1,400 pounds, featuring a circular 41-inch diameter artistic interpretation of the moon carved from Dakota granite, mounted on a 32-inch high rectangular black granite base. Sculpted by Moroles in Rockport in 2014 before his untimely death the following year, the piece has been exhibited in numerous shows and locations throughout the Southwest, including Granite – 7,300Lbs, PDNB Gallery, Dallas (Feb.-Aug. 2014); Texas Abstract Traveling Exhibition (October 2014); Wade Wilson Gallery, Santa Fe, N.M.; Abacus Restaurant, Dallas; and Chinatown Restaurant, Austin, Texas.

“Jesús was a talented sculptor with an amazing spirit,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. “His untimely passing due to an automobile accident was a shock to the art world and to Rockport, the community he called home. We are so pleased to be able to showcase his striking pieces, in the form of sculptures along with five of his granite benches that will also be part of the new RCA sculpture garden. An enduring testament to his creative genius.”  

Known for his monumental granite sculptures, The Corpus Christi native wanted viewers not only to observe his work but also to touch the different surfaces. Using diamond saws to cut the stone, creating both polished and natural granite surfaces in his pieces, Moroles described his work as a "harmonious coexistence” and a "discussion" of how man interacts with nature.

“I am honored and very fortunate to have worked with my brother for 28 years prior to his passing in 2015,” said Suzanna Moroles. “Moroles Art Co. strives to protect, preserve and keep alive Jesús Moroles' prolific legacy, and my partner Kurt Kangas and I are proud to be fulfilling our mission to conserve the Moroles art collection.”

In 2007, Moroles was awarded the Texas Medal of the Arts, and in 2008, he received the National Medal of the Arts, considered the highest honor given to artists and arts patrons by the U.S. government. More than 2,000 of his works are held in public and private collections in the United States, China, Egypt, France, Italy, Japan, and Switzerland, including corporate offices, museums, and public displays such as CBS Plaza in New York City; the Smithsonian American Art Museum; Museum of Contemporary Art in Osaka, Japan; Dallas Museum of Art; Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth; and Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.

Growing up, Moroles was a student in the Dallas Independent School District, and in 2021, the district honored him by renaming the elementary school he attended Jesús Moroles Expressive Arts Vanguard, now an arts magnet school with opportunities for students to pursue visual arts, dance, music, and theater.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: 

Moonscape Dimensions
6' 1/8" H x 41 3/4" W x 20" D
Top circular dimensions: 40 1/8" H x 41 3/4" W x 7 1/2" D
Bottom base dimensions: 32" H x 20" W x 12" D
Total weight: 1,400 lbs.

A GARDEN DESIGNED TO GROW IMAGINATION AND INSPIRATION

 
Sculpture installation begins in new Rockport Center for the Arts’ Sculpture Garden

 

ROCKPORT, Texas (Oct. 3, 2022) — Gardens come in all shapes and sizes, including the Patricia Bennett Moore Sculpture Garden, part of the new 1.2-acre Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) campus slated to open in November. The 16,000-square-foot garden has recently begun blooming with the installation of sculptural works from the RCA permanent collection, along with granite benches designed and created by Jesús Moroles. 

A total of eight sculptures from artists with state, national, and international recognition, will grace the garden, which also includes greenery, water features, and the five Moroles benches, making the space suitable for relaxation and contemplation. The general contractor for the new RCA, Teal Construction Company of Houston and Corpus Christi, and Moroles Art Co. of Rockport are handling the installation and garden work, which is expected to be completed in October.

Merry Time Romance by Kent Ullberg

“The Sculpture Garden concept was established at RCA back in 2000 with the acquisition of our first piece, Rites of Spring by Kent Ullberg,” said RCA executive director, Luis Purón. “The acquisition was made possible through a generous grant from the Margaret Sue Rust Foundation, before the passing of Mrs. Rust.  The sculpture was unveiled on her birthday. Since that time, we have continued to collect amazing works, 18 in all, by some of the art world’s most renowned sculptors.”

The first sculpture to be installed on Sept. 9 was Merry Time Romance, 2021, a scaled-up sculpture by the Swedish master Kent Ullberg and a key piece of the RCA permanent collection, followed in late September by Man’s Best Friend, 1999, by Michael Atkinson. Next will be Lighthouse Fountain 2002, by Jesús Moroles, scheduled for installation Oct. 6–7.

The remaining five sculptures will be Uccelli (Birds of St. Francis), 1972, by artist Charles Umlauf; Walking White Flower, 2011, by artist James Surls; The Inevitable Question, The Lure of Simple Inclinations, and The False Shadow of Transformation, 2016, by Danville Chadbourne; Interlocking, 1985, by Jesús Moroles; and Days, 2009, by Mark Williamson.

Two of the pieces, previously on long-term loan, were returned in time for placement in the new garden: Uccelli, from the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum in Austin where it had been since 2017, and Walking White Flower, displayed in City of San Antonio’s Mahncke Park since 2019.

An additional three RCA sculptures, strategically placed along S. Austin St., help beautify the downtown area and create a dialogue that ties-in to the sculpture garden in the new campus. They include Austin Street Red, 2021, and Spirit of Rockport, 2019 by Nic Noblique; and Beach Day, 2022, by Kathy Wardle.

The garden also serves as a visually inspiring transitional space between the new two-story, 14,000-square-foot visual arts and education building and the adjacent one-story, 8,000-square-foot Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC), which is also part of the RCA campus in the heart of downtown Rockport.  The garden area will also be utilized for special events hosted by RCA, as well as those booked by private entities through The ROCC for after-hours enjoyment.

Award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi designed the new coastal contemporary facility, including the garden.

“The Sculpture Garden really serves as an outdoor living space and a stunning visual feature for the new facility,” said architect David Richter, FAIA. “A courtyard leading guests into the garden is actually nestled into the main building and serves as a focal point, drawing the eye into the garden, clearly visible even to passersby on the street.” 

With the opening of its new campus, RCA says it plans to continue expanding its collection. “Additional sculptural acquisitions are currently underway,” said Purón. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Thirteen of the sculptures from the RCA Permanent Collection, as they appeared previously installed in the former RCA Sculpture Garden, can be viewed on the RCA website.

 

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS ANNOUNCES NEW CONFERENCE CENTER MANAGER

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS ANNOUNCES
NEW CONFERENCE CENTER MANAGER

Paulette Kluge to oversee business tourism for The Rockport Conference Center;
November opening planned

ROCKPORT, Texas (September 16, 2022) — Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) announced longtime hospitality executive Paulette Kluge as venue manager for the conference center portion of the new RCA campus, which is now in the final phase of construction. Kluge is responsible for developing new business for RCA, including events, business meetings, and convention sales.  

A veteran of the hospitality industry, she has more than 40 years of experience catering to various market segments while working with hotels of varying sizes, cultures and locations. Her past duties include CEO of the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Director of Sales and Marketing for several hotels in the United States, and Vice President of Sales and Marketing for a handful of groups including Regent Hotels International.

“Paulette is a creative, enthusiastic and relationship-driven professional,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “We are fortunate to have lured her out of retirement to help The ROCC at the Rockport Center for the Arts open brilliantly and to deliver near perfectly executed meetings and events for our clients.”

RCA is preparing for the completion and November opening of its new 1.2-acre campus in downtown Rockport, featuring 14,000 square feet of state-of-the-art space for art exhibitions and education, as well as the 8,000-square-foot conference center which Kluge will oversee. Her responsibilities include development of the new tourism and revenue-generating operation, including marketing the venue to prospective clients, executing all aspects of the sales process, and event management. 

 

"Being on the campus of the Rockport Center for the Arts is so fantastic and offers guests so many exciting options,” said Kluge. “The rooms are fabulous. The acoustics are amazing. The audio-visual capabilities are the best. I’m so looking forward to introducing this wonderful space to our many potential customers."

 

For information on RCA event space, or to book an event, contact Paulette Kluge at (361) 960-2090.

NEW $12.5 MILLION ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS FACILITY NEARS COMPLETION

NEW $12.5 MILLION ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS FACILITY NEARS COMPLETION

Grand opening fall 2022 five years after destructive hurricane; Conference Center bookings underway

 

ROCKPORT, Texas (September 13, 2022) — Construction crews are now putting final touches on the new 22,000-square-foot Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) with primary work slated for completion sometime in October and a grand opening to follow. Work began Feb. 23, 2021, on the 1.2-acre site located only a few yards from Aransas Bay in the heart of downtown Rockport. It is the first original facility to be built for the celebrated 53-year-old non-profit organization. 

The new $12.5 million campus —$9 million of which is construction — will more than double the space of the former RCA facility which was destroyed by Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, forcing RCA to operate in temporary locations ever since. The new RCA will be home to hallmark programs in the 14,000 square-foot visual arts and art education complex and also includes The ROCC (Rockport Conference Center), encompassing 8,000 square feet, including a 4,500-square-foot ballroom, which can be configured into four smaller breakout rooms, a 1,400-square-foot foyer and a flexible catering and culinary arts education kitchen. In addition, there is a 16,000-square-foot outdoor sculpture garden that will house 10 sculptural works by artists with state, national and international recognition.

Award-winning Richter Architects of Corpus Christi designed the new coastal contemporary facility with industrial indoor finishes, with Teal Construction Company, of Houston and Corpus Christi, serving as the general contractor for the project. Both companies were hired through a competitive process.

“Our membership and our community are eagerly anticipating the opening of the new Rockport Center for the Arts, which is something we have been planning for since 2014. Hurricane Harvey destroyed our original harbor front facility on August 25, 2017, nearly five years ago,” said Luis Purón, executive director for RCA. “Substantial completion of construction should be done in early October and then it’s on to the finishing touches, fixtures and furnishings to arrive prior to the Certificate of Occupancy from our partner in the project, the City of Rockport.  Once the Certificate is received we can open to the public.”

RCA contracted with National Cabling Service of Houston to design and install a $300,000 structured cabling system providing comprehensive telecommunications services throughout the complex, including Wi-Fi integration, state of the art audio-visual capabilities, telephone service, a keycard access system and other security measures. Special attention has been given to other details of the project including new ceramic studio fixtures, furnishings for both buildings, as well as appliances and equipment for the culinary arts kitchen.

“Our new, modern facilities will allow us to expand the breadth of our programs, primarily the performing arts and the culinary arts. These facilities will also serve to attract business tourism to Rockport, during the mid-week timeframe, something that has been lacking in Rockport’s vast array of tourism offerings,” said Purón.  

Identified as an anchor for downtown economic revitalization, RCA worked with Austin-based Legend Labs, a high-profile brand and reputation consulting firm, to help identify strengths and positioning strategies for the organization’s newest brand, The ROCC. The new RCA is creating new opportunities for creatives working in the fields of visual arts, art education, performing arts, cinematic arts, culinary arts, as well as opportunities in business areas such as sales, marketing, administration, convention facility administration and destination management. 

“Rockport was dealt a punishing blow by Hurricane Harvey, but it has been extremely gratifying to see how those in our community have continued to support one another as we rebuild and bounce back,” said City of Rockport Mayor Tim Jayroe. “The new Rockport Center for the Arts is a major step in that recovery and I couldn’t be more proud of everyone that has worked so hard to make this happen.”

Funding for the new RCA facility came from a variety of both private and public sources. Following the 2017 Hurricane Harvey destruction of the original 5,762-square-foot facility near Rockport Harbor, RCA engaged in a silent major gift campaign. A public campaign was started in February 2021, and since inception approximately $7.5 million was raised through major gifts from private, corporate, and foundation contributions through the Imagine Capital Campaign. The City of Rockport and Aransas County Long Term Recovery Team also provided assistance in the effort, partnering with RCA to help secure a $5 million grant from the U. S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). Additional disaster recovery funding for Aransas County came via the State of Texas General Land Office, which was used to construct a generous 60-space surface parking area one block away from the new RCA campus. The parking lot, to be managed by the City of Rockport, is now completed with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for August 31.

“We are thankful to the hundreds of Texas families that have invested in our community and have made a significant investment in the future of the Arts in Rockport,” Purón said. 

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 the staff at (361) 450-8022.

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MEDIA ADVISORY – PHOTO OP

WHAT:     Ribbon Cutting for New Downtown Rockport Center for the Arts Parking Lot
WHEN:    Wednesday, Aug. 31 — 9 a.m.
WHERE:  101 N. Magnolia St., Rockport, Texas

As the final touches continue on the new 22,000-square-foot Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA), the new 60-space parking lot located one block away is now completed with an official ribbon cutting scheduled to officially open the lot. 

Guest speakers for the 9 a.m. ceremony include:

•       Judge C.H. “Burt” Mills, Jr., Aransas County Judge;

•       Mayor Tim Jayroe, City of Rockport;

•       John Besteiro, Grant Coordinator, Texas General Land Office;

•       Karen Ernst, Deputy Director, Rockport Center of the Arts; and

•       Other State and Federal Officials

Made possible through a Community Development Block Grant, administered by the Texas General Land Office, the project is part of a $53.9 million block grant Aransas County obtained after Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

The new parking lot includes overhead lighting, landscaping, an irrigation system, and new sidewalks, supporting the new RCA campus scheduled to be completed mid-September on S. Austin St., as well as other downtown merchants and special events.

Construction started in late February. The project engineer was Hanson Engineering and the contractor was Marshall Construction, both located in Corpus Christi, Texas.

“We are thankful to the leadership of Aransas County for having the foresight to include parking that will support 22,000 square feet of new RCA facilities for convention tourism, multidisciplinary Arts programming, and the many activities that take place in downtown Rockport,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director.

 

 

To coordinate coverage, contact Karen Ernst, RCA Deputy Director

at (361) 450-8022, (361) 729-5519, or karen@rockportartcenter.com

Groundbreaking for New Downtown Rockport Center for the Arts Parking Lot

WHAT: Groundbreaking for New Downtown Rockport Center for the Arts Parking Lot

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 28 — 11 a.m. 

WHERE: Corner of S. Live Oak St. and North St., Rockport, Texas

As construction continues on the new 22,000-square-foot Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA), work will soon begin on RCA’s new 60-space parking lot located one block away on North Street between Magnolia and Live Oak Street. Both projects are scheduled for completion in September 2022. 

Made possible through a Community Development Block Grant, administered by the Texas General Land Office, the project is part of a $53.9 million block grant Aransas County obtained after Hurricane Harvey in 2017. 

The new parking lot will include overhead lighting, landscaping, an irrigation system, and new sidewalks, supporting the new RCA campus on S. Austin St., as well as other downtown merchants and special events. The new lot will surround three sides of the historic train depot, which was saved by Aransas County through the same block grant, allowing for the purchase of the property and having the depot itself donated to the Rockport Cultural Arts District for preservation. 

Construction is slated to begin in late February. The engineer for the project is Hanson Engineering and the contractor is Marshall Construction, both from Corpus Christi, Texas. 

“One of Downtown Rockport’s needs has been to have parking for citizens and tourists to enjoy the unique offerings of the area,” said Judge “Burt” C.H. Mills. “Aransas County is happy to have obtained the grant to make this project and many others happen.” 

“We are thankful to the leadership of Aransas County for having the foresight to include parking that will support 22,000 square feet of new RCA facilities for convention tourism, programs in all forms of Art, and the many activities in downtown Rockport,” said Luis Purón, RCA executive director. 

For more information about the block grant visit: https://www.glo.texas.gov/the-glo/news/press-releases/2020/may/cmr-george-p-bush-announces-more-than-43-million-in-disaster-recovery-funds-for-aransas-county.html

To coordinate coverage, contact Luis Purón, RCA Executive Director

(570) 702-4032 / luis@rockportartcenter.com

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.


EDITOR’S NOTE: Artist renderings of the new RCA are available at rockportartcenter.com/imagine for media download and use.

To coordinate coverage, contact Luis Purón, RCA Executive Director

(570) 702-4032 / luis@rockportartcenter.com

Relocation of Kline's Cafe Building off Construction Site

Construction is now underway on Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) new 22,000-plus-square-foot facilities on its 1.18-acre campus in downtown Rockport.

RCA’s former home, the historic Kline’s Cafe Building (KCB), was recently moved to its new location to make way for the new project. A joint effort between RCA and its new owner, Upside Ventures LLC, of Austin, Texas, the 1940s-era KCB began its move March 31 from 106 S. Austin St. heading west on North St. and then south on Magnolia. It is now in place to be positioned on the new foundation located at 504 S. Magnolia Street.

Although the four-block journey took an entire day, a time-lapse video of the historic move is viewable below.

Ram House Movers of Sinton, Texas, moved the one-story, 2,000-square-foot building — a slab-on-grade foundation, masonry, cinder block, stucco walls and a wood frame roof — a total weight of 220 tons.

In 2020, RCA retained an architectural historian at Amaterra LLC to prepare historical documentation regarding the 70-plus-year-old structure. Kline’s Cafe is considered significant under Criterion C, architecture, as a good example of Art Moderne at the local level of significance.

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As Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) prepares to begin construction on its new 22,000-plus-square-foot facilities and 1.18-acre campus in downtown Rockport, RCA’s former home, the historic Kline’s Cafe Building (KCB), is ready to begin the journey to its new location.

With deep historic ties to the Rockport community, the KCB most recently served as the home for RCA from December 2017 to December 2019. In preparation for the move, RCA prepared a detailed relocation plan that was approved by the Texas Historical Commission. A joint effort between RCA and its eventual owner, Upside Ventures LLC, of Austin, Texas, the 1940s-era KCB will begin its move March 31 around 9 a.m. from its current location at 106 S. Austin St. The building will move west on North St. and then south on Magnolia to be positioned on the new foundation located at 504 S. Magnolia Street. The four-block journey is expected to take two days.

Ram House Movers of Sinton, Texas, will be moving the one-story, 2,000-square-foot building — a slab-on-grade foundation, masonry, cinder block, stucco walls and a wood frame roof — a total weight of 220 tons.

Ram House Movers has worked on significant projects in Texas, most notably relocating the History Center for Aransas County to its present location on Cedar Ave., as well as moving the Stillman House from Corpus Christi to its present location in Brownsville.

Upside Ventures LLC, who owns and manages commercial interests in Austin and Rockport, plans improvements for the KCB, including ADA accessibility, and beautification of the site through landscaping that once adorned the KCB at its Austin St. location. Once it is set on its new concrete foundation, the KCB will also meet FEMA elevation requirements.

In 2020, RCA retained an architectural historian at Amaterra LLC to prepare historical documentation regarding the 70-plus-year-old structure. Kline’s Cafe is considered significant under Criterion C, architecture, as a good example of Art Moderne at the local level of significance. The documentation can be found at RockportArtCenter.com.

 

 

To coordinate coverage, contact Luis Purón, RCA Executive Director

(570) 702-4032 / luis@rockportartcenter.com

Video credit: Ty Husak & Aransas County Historical Society