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.

Small Black Museum Residency Project Vol. 3 Opening Reception

Thursday, May 16, 2024 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. RSVP HERE

Join us for the opening of Small Black Museum Vol. 3 from 6-8pm on Thursday, May 16, 2024! We are thrilled to present a group show featuring new bodies of work by our residency artists: Corey Sherrard Jr., Nitashia Johnson, and taylor barnes. Exploring themes of existentialism, spirituality, and earthly connections, the multimedia exhibit will be on display until October 5, 2024.

The Small Black Museum Residency Project was launched in 2021 to further align the Carver Museum’s work with its mission to preserve and exhibit African-American material culture, history, and aesthetic expression. Established by the Museum’s current curator, Carre Adams, this residency supports an ever-evolving ecosystem of Black artists living and working in Central Texas. SBMRP seeks to cultivate early career artists by engaging them in critical conversations about their work, providing mentorship around the business of art, and preparing them to engage with a broad spectrum of institutions.

RSVP HERE

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 Harvé 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