Background
Landmarks is the award-winning public art program of The University of Texas at Austin and one of the most important public art programs at an American university. Presented throughout Austin’s main campus, Landmarks’ collection features modern and contemporary art by some of the most prominent and promising artists of our time. Beyond beautifying campus, the collection encourages critical thinking and dialogue, and fosters a lifelong appreciation of the arts. Most importantly, Landmarks is open to all, 24/7, free of charge.
Landmarks launched in 2008 with an historic, ongoing loan of 28 sculptures from The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Since that time, Landmarks has commissioned or acquired roughly 1-2 new projects per year, expanding the collection to nearly 50 works of art. An extension of the collection, Landmarks Video features a rotating selection of influential video art from the past six decades.
Landmarks provides multiple points of entry for engaging its diverse audiences. Public offerings include monthly tours, music performances, and artist lectures. Its website and mobile app feature scholarly essays, self-guided tours, artist videos, music playlists, and activity guides for all ages.
Robust volunteer and internship programs support learning and growth. The Landmarks Preservation Guild provides opportunities for students to learn conservation and maintenance techniques. A dedicated team of docents give tours throughout the year, building their public speaking skills while bringing the collection to life for broad audiences. Paid interns in Landmarks’ education and communications departments receive training that prepares them for the workforce as the next generation of arts professionals.
By bringing great art to The University of Texas at Austin, Landmarks enriches the lives of students and visitors, engaging thousands of people each day. It is a point of pride for the university and an integral part of the Longhorn experience.