Finding a place right in the city where you can feel a sense of calm is exactly what the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum is all about. The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum represents so much that is typical Austin: superb art casually set in a shady garden of native Texas plants, a natural oasis near Barton Springs and only blocks away from the heart of a capital city.
Since its founding just over 30 years ago, the UMLAUF has been focused on art education in the local Austin area. As their collection and grounds have grown, so have their ambitions. This place is a beautiful and accessible garden with a number of programs and classes that make the UMLAUF a top destination in Austin.
This garden and museum is a 25-minute walk from the North Lamar Apartments at AMLI 300—just hop on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike trail over the Colorado River via the Pflueger Pedestrian Bridge and follow Barton Creek right to the gardens. Let’s take in the culture at this must-see oasis of art and nature in Austin!
Permanent collection
Always on display in the gardens are Charles Julius Umlauf’s sculptures that were created beginning in 1939 all the way until 1985. The garden describes the sculptures as ranging “from haunting expressionism to detailed neoclassical realism to lyrical abstraction.” The materials used include exotic woods, terra cotta, cast stone, bronzes and alabasters. These sculptures have won a number of prestigious awards and are truly a sight to be seen.
Specialty exhibitions
Every few months, new specialty exhibitions arrive at the UMLAUF, so there is always something new to see. You can view other artist’s sculpture work and reflect on the different designs all in a tranquil setting.
Education and programs
This museum offers a wide range of programs, tours, classes and educational workshops to enhance your knowledge of Umlauf’s legacy and the art of sculpture. All ages are invited to explore the collections, participate in programs and create their very own works of art! There are night tours, yoga in the garden classes, family days, excursions to other art museums, local art classes and much more.
Volunteering
Not only is the UMLAUF a great place to explore, but also a rewarding place to give back to your community. There are opportunities to help the museum by handling admission or answering visitor questions. There are also garden cleanup days where you can get your hands dirty to keep the grounds in beautiful condition.
Visit the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum at:
605 Azie Morton Road
Tuesday to Friday: 10am to 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: noon to 4pm
Monday: Closed
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