The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB MACC) in Austin stands as a vibrant hub dedicated to celebrating and promoting Latino/a/e/x cultural arts. Each year, the ESB MACC Advisory Board recognizes outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the Latino/a/e/x arts community through the Awards of Excellence. Established in 2009, these prestigious awards highlight the rich tapestry of Mexican American and Latino/a/e/x culture within Austin.
Nominations for the annual Awards of Excellence are a testament to the impactful work being done within the community. Residents of Austin and the Greater Austin Metropolitan area are encouraged to nominate individuals who have shown remarkable dedication to the cultural arts. The nomination period typically runs from late January to late March, offering a window to recognize deserving community members. You can explore the full list of past award recipients from 2009 to 2024 on the AustinTexas.gov/MACCAWARDS website.
Nominate now!
La Mujer Mosaic Mural
The ESB MACC is not just about awards; it’s a living, breathing space filled with art and culture. One of its prominent features is the stunning “La Mujer” mosaic mural. Completed in April 2023, this artwork is located at 600 River Street, where the ESB MACC meets the Ann and Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, near Lady Bird Lake. Easily accessible and viewable from the trail, the “La Mujer” mural is a visual landmark and a celebration of Mexican American artistry in a public space. Mural Location On Google Maps offers precise directions. You can also watch a video showcasing this beautiful mural.
.jpg)
Currently, the ESB MACC is undergoing an exciting Phase 2 expansion and renovation project, part of the 2018 Facility Expansion Plan approved by the City Council. This phase encompasses both the expansion and renovation of the existing facility, alongside site improvements. These changes are designed to better serve the growing needs of the Austin community. To delve deeper into the Phase 2 project, visit the Project Page and explore the comprehensive FAQs provided.
MACC PHASE 2 EXPANSION FAQ’s
ESB MACC Building Closure and Program Relocations
The ESB MACC building is currently closed to the public for these renovations, with closure starting in January 2023 and anticipated to last throughout 2023 and 2024. The grand reopening is projected for Fall 2025. This temporary closure allows for significant upgrades and expansions to better serve the community in the future.
Building Expansion Plans: Enhancing Cultural Spaces
Detailed information regarding the Phase 2 expansion plans, including schematic drawings of the building enhancements, are readily available on the Phase 2 Project Page. For those interested in the historical context of the building plans, the ESB MACC has created an online exhibit titled “History of the ESB MACC Building Online Exhibit,” viewable here. This exhibit is also accessible in Espanol.
Program Continuity During Construction: Culture Without Walls
Despite the building closure, the ESB MACC remains committed to providing its regular programs and events. Throughout 2023-2024, programs are being relocated to various sites across Austin, ensuring that cultural enrichment continues even without the main facility. This approach allows the MACC to reach diverse and potentially underserved areas of Austin, broadening its community impact.
Program locations include Austin Public Library branches, the Dove Springs Recreation Center, the Carver Museum, and the Asian American Resource Center, among others. For the most up-to-date locations for specific programs, please visit the ESB MACC Programs and Events page.
Organizations or individuals interested in hosting an ESB MACC program at their venue are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected] with program details and hosting preferences.
Contacting ESB MACC During Closure: Temporary Office and Contact Information
While the main building is closed, the ESB MACC has established a temporary office at the Dougherty Arts Center, located at 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704. The main phone line, (512) 974-3772, remains active during normal business hours. Voicemails can be left, and staff will respond as promptly as possible.
Pocket Park Enhancements: A Temporary Green Space Refresh
Visitors to the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Pocket Park, situated at 64 Rainey Street, will notice temporary improvements starting in June 2024. This project introduces donated park furniture from Canvus, which will be further enhanced with murals painted by ESB-MACC Caminos students in Fall 2024. This initiative activates the space pending the commencement of construction on the permanent park design, ensuring the space remains vibrant and community-oriented. The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to the original permanent park design. More information about the community engagement process for the Pocket Park can be found at MACC Pocket Park | AustinTexas.gov.
Banner for Holistic Wellness Program
The ESB MACC’s Holistic Wellness Program underscores a commitment to the well-being of the whole person, deeply rooted in Latino/Mexican American cultural identities. This program recognizes that true wellness encompasses physical, social, environmental, financial, intellectual, emotional/mental, occupational, and spiritual dimensions. Reflecting the diversity of the community, the program aims to nourish and cultivate these aspects to enrich individual lives and uplift the collective. The Holistic Wellness Program calendar is available in English and Spanish.
At the ESB-MACC Healing Garden, the community cultivates herbs, fruits, and vegetables for everyday use and health purposes. Gardening enthusiasts are invited to participate in workdays. Information brochures about the Garden are available in English and Spanish, and the Garden webpage can be viewed in English and Spanish. For inquiries, contact [email protected].
Explore previous program offerings through the DIGITAL PROGRAM GUIDE, which includes lesson plans, performances, online art galleries, instructional videos, and details about Signature Events. Share your experiences and feedback by completing the 5-minute Program Survey!
Exploring Mexican American Art and Culture at ESB MACC Galleries
.jpg)
While the physical galleries at the MACC are currently closed for construction, the center is home to two gallery spaces that showcase Latino/a artists from local, regional, and national levels. These include the Community Gallery downstairs and the Sam Z Coronado Gallery upstairs. Explore online exhibits to experience the art virtually during the closure.
ESB MACC Events, Programs, and Services: Engaging the Community
Events, Programs, and Services
.jpg)
The ESB MACC is dedicated to producing annual events, collaborating with community organizations, and co-producing initiatives with Latino organizations, all of which are free and accessible to the public. The Latino Artist Access Program (LAAP) is a key developmental program supporting Latino arts organizations and artists across disciplines in Austin.
Education and Cultural Arts Programs
.jpg)
A wide range of cultural arts classes and camps are offered for both adults and youth. Download the ESB MACC Coloring Book for a fun and engaging way to connect with Mexican American culture. For more information, call (512) 974-3772 or email [email protected].
Caminos Teen Leadership Program: Empowering Young Leaders
Caminos Teen Leadership Program
.jpg)
The ESB-MACC’s Caminos program is dedicated to empowering Austin-area teenagers, guiding them to forge their unique paths within the creative arts.
Rentals & Reservations: Future Availability
.jpg)
Facility rentals at the ESB MACC are currently unavailable due to the Phase 2 expansion and renovation. Rentals will resume upon the public reopening in Fall 2025.
Latino Artist Access Program: Supporting Latinx Creativity
.jpg)
The Latino Artist Access Program (LAAP) at ESB MACC provides vital space and community for Latinx artists across all artistic disciplines to showcase their work. This program supports rehearsals, performances, workshops, and the creation of art. Explore the LAAP Artist Page to discover talented artists.
