Program Series
Whether for a performance, lecture, artist conversation, or film, the Visual Arts Center invites the public to activate our space while energetically discovering fresh perspectives in contemporary art. Through auxiliary programming, the creative community at large is encouraged to intersect with the visual arts in unexpected and inspired ways.
The Visual Arts Center’s public programming is made possible in part by the generous support from Texas Performing Arts. Texas Performing Arts (TPA) presents an international season of music, theatre, dance, and conversation in multiple venues, as well as the best in touring Broadway productions and concert attractions. As a university-based arts center, TPA is also committed to serving the academic mission of the College of Fine Arts by supporting the work of our students, faculty and staff on our stages, classrooms, studios and production shops; and in the educational outreach programs we provide for the Austin community.
Art in Practice
Art in Practice is a series of panel discussions that provide guidance and insight into the professional world to students preparing for careers in the arts. Varying topics of conversation range from a nuts-and-bolts approach to gaining valuable job skills, to broad issues relevant to creative culture as a whole. Led by committed art administrators, enterprising gallerists, and established artists, these talks engage audiences in constructive exchanges about the multifaceted field of contemporary art.
Fade In
fade in |fād in|: A gradual increase in the visibility of a scene.
Fade In is a series of specially curated videos remarkably projected from within the VAC to audiences outside the building. As dusk approaches, the VAC retains its pulse as work is screened outwardly onto the landscape of the university. Acting as a silent beacon, Fade In captures the curiosity of passersby and invites them to continue their contemporary art investigation during daytime hours.
Lunch Break
Lunch Break presents a daytime series of carefully selected films that will satisfy your hunger for fresh perspectives on the exhibitions on view. Especially created for students, faculty, and staff of the University of Texas at Austin campus, Lunch Break is open to anyone looking for a little mid-day cinematic respite. Bring your lunchtime goodies and join the VAC for a variety of films sure to stimulate conversation throughout the rest of your workday.
B.Y.O.L. / Drinks provided
Sound + Vision
Sound + Vision promotes experiments in sound, video and performance. Each program is designed to complement and enrich the contemporary art experience fostered by the VAC. Collaborating with students, faculty, and alumni of the College of Fine Arts, as well as outside organizations, Sound + Vision provides a forum in which artists are able to present performances that otherwise might not be realized. By offering a unique encounter with the art on exhibit, Sound + Vision will present an enriching experience for visitors, in addition to opening up new avenues for creativity.
Two Ships Passing
Two Ships Passing is presented in collaboration with the art publication Pastelegram. Often said of two people who meet for a brief but intense moment, this conversation series explores pertinent topics within the creative community. In each edition of Two Ships Passing, one speaker will be invited and prompted to request the company of a committed colleague, mentor, or perhaps even a new acquaintance, creating a unique pairing for a dialogue. This remarkable event aims to establish a reactive space where ideas will be exchanged and unexpected conclusions will be gained.