Bullock Museum Hosts Performances by Local Artists as Part of Summer Third Thursdays Series

JUNE 6, 2023 (AUSTIN, TX) – This summer, the Bullock Museum will host a special series of Third Thursdays evening programs with live music by local artists, fun art-based experiences, and a cash bar. Included in Museum exhibit admission, the events will take place from 5 to 8 pm on Third Thursdays in June, July and August.

Third Thursdays invite the public to experience the Bullock Museum after-hours and connect to Texas through unique interactive experiences each month. Visitors explore exhibitions, enjoy happy hour food and drinks in The Star Cafe, and take part in a wide variety of activities, discussions, performances, and more.

The summer Third Thursdays series connects the public with the Museum’s newest special exhibition, The Harmon and Harriet Kelley Collection of African American Art: Works on Paper, an exploration of the rich history of Black art in America through watercolors, etchings, screen prints and more from the 20^th century to the present. The exhibition is on view through October 1, 2023. The summer series will feature musical performances by Austin artists and fun art activities for adults.

“Our Third Thursdays this summer feature fantastic opportunities to enjoy a laid-back, music and art-focused night after a hard day’s work,” said Margaret Koch, Director of the Bullock Museum. “Take a walk on the Capitol Mall and then cool off with just the right atmosphere for gathering with friends and colleagues at the Bullock.”

The summer events kick off with a performance by The Peterson Brothers on June 15. Texas natives The Peterson Brothers combine infectious energy and modern grooves with jazz, funk, blues and soul to create their unique sound. Additionally, visitors can create their own watercolor painting with Richard Samuel of RichesArt Gallery, who creates vivid, eclectic, and realistic watercolor paintings.

Continuing the series in July, Zach Person will perform on July 20. Austin-based Person has been hailed as the new face of indie rock, with a sound that is loud, raw, and connects with his fans on a primal sonic level. Visitors can also make a collage with local Austin artist Kemi Yemi-Esi, a therapist and visual artist whose art reflects the struggles and triumphs of living with a disability.

Rounding out the series, Austin native Mélat brings her R&B sounds to the Bullock Museum on August 17. A giant of the Austin R&B scene, Mélat’s unique sound is influenced by her parents’ native Ethiopian music, jazz, and the blues. Guests can experience screen printing with Flatbed Center for Contemporary Printmaking, a collaborative printmaking studio dedicated to creating and promoting the art and craft of the original print.

At each event, visitors will also be able to create sketches inspired by African American poetry, experience poetry writing inspired by the exhibition with Austin Public Library’s Badgerdog program, and create a photo memory against a beautiful floral backdrop.

Summer Third Thursdays will also feature beverages provided by Rambler Sparkling Water and Big Hat Spirits. Guests can grab a free can of refreshing sparkling water and, at the June 15 event, Big Hat Spirits will offer complimentary spirits samples. Program sponsors KUTX 98.9 will also be on hand to support the event.

Performances and activities are included with Museum exhibit admission. Exhibition access is free for Museum members and $9 to $13 for general audiences. Complimentary parking is available in the Bullock Museum garage after 5 pm. For more information, visit TheStoryofTexas.com.

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Third Thursdays are sponsored by KUTX.

Third Thursdays are sponsored by Rambler Sparkling Water.

The June Third Thursday is sponsored by Big Hat Spirits.

The exhibition The Harmon and Harriet Kelley Collection of African American Art: Works on Paper was organized by Landau Traveling Exhibitions, Los Angeles, CA.
Sponsored by the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Hall Fund.

The Bullock Museum, a division of the Texas State Preservation Board, is funded by Museum members, donors, and patrons, the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and the State of Texas.

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​​The Bullock Texas State History Museum, a division of the State Preservation Board and an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums, creates experiences that educate, engage, and encourage a deeper understanding of Texas. With dynamic, award-winning exhibitions that illuminate Texas history, people, and culture, educational programming for all ages, and an IMAX® theater with a screen the size of Texas, the Museum collaborates with more than 700 museums, libraries, archives, organizations, and individuals across the world to bring the Story of Texas to life. For more information, visit www.TheStoryofTexas.com or call (866)369-7108.