Blanton Museum of Art Sets Attendance Record After Renovation

The Blanton Museum of Art at The University of Texas at Austin welcomed 260,899 visitors during the 2024 calendar year. This record-breaking attendance exceeds prepandemic figures and follows a period of significant growth and transformation that included the museum’s grounds renovation — almost 200,000 square feet of redesigned public outdoor space with new architectural features designed by Snøhetta, large-scale artworks, the Moody Patio and the Butler Sound Gallery.

A recent survey by the American Alliance of Museums indicates that half of U.S. museums reported attendance levels below prepandemic figures. In contrast, the Blanton’s attendance last year exceeded previous highs. 

“The new design encourages people to come, explore, and interact with the environment,” said Founding Partner Craig Dykers. “It’s about creating a sense of community and connectivity.”

The grounds project, which opened to the public in 2023 and was completed in 2024, is the most recent initiative to expand the museum’s impact and make it a destination for the arts in Austin. Read more, here.