Rockport Center for the Arts

Situated in Rockport, Texas’ downtown waterfront, the Rockport Center for the Arts (RCA) is more than just a gallery—it’s a creative hub for the Texas Gulf coast. For nearly five decades, this multidisciplinary arts center has been a magnet for arts and culture enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of exhibits, programs, festivals, and performances.

After weathering the devastation of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, RCA reemerged in 2022 with a striking new 22,000-square-foot campus, a testament to Rockport’s commitment to local arts. Four light-filled galleries draw visitors to regular art exhibitions by Texas-based and nationally recognized artists. Sculpture installations, thought-provoking mixed-media pieces and vibrant paintings line the walls, as guests mingle for monthly openings or casual drop-bys.

Just steps away, the RCA’s lush sculpture garden is a tranquil retreat for viewing fascinating contemporary works against the natural beauty of the Texas coast.

Beyond exhibitions, RCA pulses with activities for visitors of all ages. Kids and caregivers find plenty to do on Free Family Saturdays, where young folks can complete a new DIY activity each week, including miniature pet portraits or homemade comic books. Adults aren’t left out of RCA’s programming. The arts center offers workshops and masterclasses led by experienced artists, creating opportunities for both beginners and seasoned creatives.

Performance and culinary arts round out RCA’s offerings, making it a comprehensive cultural destination for locals and visitors. The Spring Music Series fills the performance hall with the sounds of Texas musicians, while visiting speakers bring compelling lectures on timely topics. The RCA is even a host for the international punchy slide presentations on innovative ideas known as PechaKucha. In the kitchen, the Young Chef Series introduces local youth to the art of cooking, empowering them with both tasty life skills and a deeper appreciation for healthy food.

Throughout the year, RCA’s signature events bring together makers and culture hounds. The Rockport Art Festival draws nearly 10,000 attendees every July for a curated selection of more than 120 visual artists. The well-regarded Rockport Film Festival, held in November, screens more than 40 independent films from across the country, while also fostering the next generation of filmmakers through high school workshops. And for those who appreciate art and music in equal measure, the Guy Clark Festival celebrates the iconic Rockport singer-songwriter with live performances in his honor and an exhibition inspired by his legendary storytelling.

Supporting working artists remains a core mission of RCA. Its residency program invites creators from across the country to spend a month in Rockport, producing new work and engaging with the community. Each year, more than $200,000 in art sales flow directly back to artists, strengthening Rockport’s standing as one of the nation’s premier coastal art colonies.

With its inviting campus and innovative programming, RCA helps define Rockport as a must-visit arts destination.