United States of America

Austin

The building simply called "Austin" is one of the most extraordinary pieces of art in Texas, and it almost didn't exist. Ellsworth Kelly, one of America's most important abstract artists, designed it as a standalone work combining architecture, sculpture, and light into a single experience. He gifted the design to the Blanton Museum of Art in 2015. He died that December, at 92, without ever seeing it built.

The building opened on February 18, 2018, and it is the only freestanding structure Kelly ever designed. At 2,715 square feet, it's a stone chapel-like space with no religious affiliation, meant purely as a place to experience colour and light. Thirty-three windows of coloured glass (in deep reds, blues, greens, and yellows) cast shifting patterns across the white interior throughout the day. Black-and-white marble panels and a totem-like wooden sculpture complete the space.

Kelly described the project as a "totality of architecture, sculpture, and light." Walking inside, especially on a sunny day, you'll understand what he meant. The light changes constantly, and no two visits look the same.

"Austin" is free to visit as part of the Blanton Museum's general admission (free on Thursdays). If you're exploring Austin on a Questo quest, this is a stop where the challenge might be to slow down and really look.

"Austin" by Ellsworth Kelly

The Littlefield Fountain sits at the south entrance of the UT Austin campus on Guadalupe Street as a tribute to American sacrifice and valor. Designed by acclaimed Italian sculptor Pompeo Coppini and unveiled in 1933, this magnificent fountain was commissioned by Major George Littlefield to honor American involvement in World War I. The fountain's composition features a striking central figure: Columbia, representing America, positioned prominently on the prow of a ship. She is flanked by allegorical figures representing both the Army and the Navy, creating a powerful tableau of American military strength and unity. This enduring monument continues to inspire visitors with its artistic beauty and historical significance.

Littlefield Fountain

The Barbara Jordan statue by sculptor Bruce Wolfe stands at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, honoring one of Texas's most influential political leaders. Barbara Jordan (1936-1996) was a trailblazer who made history as the first African American elected to the Texas State Senate in 1966. Four years later, she became the first Southern African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1972. Her powerful voice during the Watergate impeachment hearings in 1974 earned her national recognition and respect. Jordan's legacy of courage and eloquence was recognized with her induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame. The statue captures her dignified presence and serves as an inspiration to all who pass through Austin's airport.

Barbara Jordan Statue by Bruce Wolfe

The Texas State Capitol Building stands as a bold architectural declaration of Texas pride and power. Designed by Elijah E. Myers and constructed between 1882 and 1888, this stunning structure surpasses the United States Capitol in Washington DC, reaching an impressive 302.64 feet in height. Built from Texas Sunset Red Granite quarried from Granite Mountain and generously donated to the state, the capitol was constructed with help from 86 skilled granite cutters brought from Scotland. The building's complexity is staggering: 392 rooms, 924 windows, and 404 doors. Over 20,000 people attended the dedication week celebration. Crowning the dome is a Goddess of Liberty statue made from 80 welded zinc pieces. Remarkably, the construction was largely financed through the sale of over 3 million acres of Texas Panhandle land.

The Texas State Capitol Building

The Texas Governor's Mansion is the oldest continuously occupied building in downtown Austin, and it has been home to every Texas governor since 1856.

Built between 1854 and 1856 in the Greek Revival style, the mansion was designed by Abner Cook, one of Austin's most prominent early architects. At 10,500 square feet, it was grand for its time, and Sam Houston was the first governor to call it home.

The mansion's history has not been entirely peaceful. In June 2008, someone threw a Molotov cocktail through a window in the early hours of the morning, causing a devastating fire that gutted much of the interior. The arsonist was never identified. A meticulous four-year restoration followed, and the mansion reopened in 2012, with many of its original features painstakingly recreated.

Over its lifetime, the building has hosted presidents, foreign dignitaries, and countless state events. It sits just south of the Capitol on Colorado Street, surrounded by gardens that have been tended for more than 160 years.

Free public tours are available on select days. And if you're on a Questo quest through Austin, the mansion and its surroundings have stories that go well beyond what you'll find on a plaque.

The Texas Governor’s Mansion

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin is a world-class cultural institution and the largest university art museum in the United States. Its impressive collection encompasses nearly 21,000 works spanning diverse periods and styles, making it a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. The museum is particularly renowned for its exceptional holdings in Latin American art, Italian Renaissance masterpieces, and modern and contemporary American works. Whether you're a seasoned art collector or simply curious about creative expression, the Blanton offers an inspiring journey through centuries of artistic achievement.

Murder Mystery: Death in the Shadows in Austin

Explore the Blanton Museum at UT Austin. Largest university art museum in US with 21,000 works. Strong Latin American and Renaissance collections.

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