George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center

Through the preservation and exhibition of African American material culture, history, and aesthetic expression, the Carver Museum works to create a space where the global contributions of all Black people are celebrated. We accomplish this by telling stories about our local community and connecting those histories to larger narratives about Blackness. The Carver Museum is free and open to the public. Masks are encouraged inside the museum.

Take a Virtual Reality Tour of the Carver!

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Boyd Vance Theatre renovation closure dates: August 2023 to March 2024 (anticipated). More information here.

For interest in the artifact(s) donation procedure please visit our Donations & Collection Information Page.

Current Exhibitions

Field Order 15: And Other Broken Promises Opening Reception

Artist on stage with with hat look down

On view now through October 14, 2023 at Carver Museum ATX.

An extension of the February 2023 satellite exhibit in collaboration with the Long Center, Field Order 15: And Other Broken Promises examines the paradox of American exceptionalism and the call for reparations. This exhibit engages artists of African descent around the concept of repair. Eleven artists were asked to consider what is required for America to atone for the continued denial of full citizenship to Black people and what repair would feel like in the body. Themes in the exhibit are presented through a series of short film-based vignettes devised around a series of prompts and displayed next to sculptural and two-dimensional works that explore repair, identity, and contradiction. Works by Alexis Hunter, Tia Boyd, Queen Deelah, Elizabeth Hudson, Kemi Yemi-Ese, Chris Hill, Moyo Oyelola, Joe Anderson, Carlton Wilcoxson, Elisha Luckett, and Hakeem Adewumi.

Boyd Vance Theatre Renovation and Carver Improvements

Carver Museum Facility Expansion Plan

Exhibitions

History, culture and art exhibits curated to educate and inspire. The Carver Museum has two rotating art galleries as well as four permanent exhibits honoring African-Americans in Austin and beyond.

Programs and Events

AKIRASH performs during the opening reception of his art exhibit, Majele (Venomous). January 2020.

The Carver provides culture and arts based programming free and for all ages to allow visitors to connect with community through special events and ongoing learning experiences.

Education Programs and Services

Students enjoy HBCU Day 2020.

The Carver offers culture and arts classes and educational programs that will come to you.

Genealogy Center

Front of the Carver Genealogy Center

The Genealogy Center provides genealogy databases, workshops and seminars. All resources are free and open to the public.

Community Garden and Sunken Stage

Community members gathered around garden and empty pool with mural painted inside of it

The Carver community garden and sunken stage has breathed new life into the in the inactive Keeling pool. Recently repainted by Austin artist, Kelv Brown, this space is on its way to housing events in the fall. Renovated and reimagined by Greg Farrar, this space is outfitted by hand-made seating, greenhouses, and concession stands. Master Gardener Harve Franks tends the planter boxes, as we continue to uplift this hidden gem situated directly beside the Freedom Plaza behind the museum.

Learn about what is happening at the Carver from special events, classes, and more.

In the Parks