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The Brownsville Museum of Fine Art,
  Brownsville, Texas

The museum was founded over 70 years ago by a group of dedicated artists who painted in backyards, churches, even a morgue and was at that time known as the Brownsville Art League. The group of artists grew and was eventually given the "Neale Home," the oldest frame house in Brownsville. Built in the1850s by Englishman William Neale, the home, a historical landmark, served as the league's headquarters and studio and was eventually added on to accommodate the growing group of members.

Thirty-six years ago, league members initiated an International Art Show and a Student International Art Show, as well as an Arts and Craft Exposition. These became annual events that display artworks from across the globe. Today, artwork is shipped from Uruguay, Australia, Korea, Mexico and elsewhere for the event.

In order to provide educational and cultural opportunities, the league began bringing in artists, implementing workshops and raising funds. A number of the artists who participated over the years have become well known. Many of the instructors donated works to the museum or the museum bought their works. Additionally, artworks were purchased over the years as "purchase prizes" of the annual International Show. Eventually, a committee was formed within the league to oversee the selection, acquisition and protection of outstanding works. Combined with donations of art over the years, this practice has led to an outstanding permanent collection that today exceeds 300 works, which include those works by Marc Chagall, N.C. Wyeth, and Alexander Calder to name a few.

In order to house and exhibit the permanent collection and display various shows, the league built the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art (next to the Neale House). At the same time, the league had grown and begun offering classes weekly in different medias. Classes are still taking place every day at the Neale House by professional artists, and the museum hosts special workshops, children's events, exhibits, traveling shows and the permanent collection.

Another historic building, the original Fort Brown Bandstand was given to the league and placed on the complex grounds and is utilized during different events.

The league later had an official name change to what is now Brownsville Museum of Fine Art.

Today classes continue during the week in the Neale House as well as the museum. Outreach to students of all ages is provided. Last year over 4000 at-risk students were served with cultural programming based on a specially designed curriculum developed by museum staff.

Our new museum, a 17,000 square-foot building located in the Mitte Cultural District of Brownsville opened its doors on October 20, 2006. This new building will improve the quality of life for the community and those who visit. Located adjacent to the Gladys Porter Zoo, which has an annual visitor rate of 50,000 persons, the museum will be the only facility of its kind dedicated to Fine Art in South Texas.

Come witness the experience and visit the new Brownsville Museum of Fine Art.