Learn more about Austin by listening on your phone while you tour the building.

How It Works:

1. Choose one of the tour topics from the list below.
2. Call 512.590.8360 and enter the topic number followed by the # key.
3. Listen and enjoy the tour.

Tour Topics and Numbers (click each topic to listen directly via SoundCloud)

• • 1# WELCOME (1:45)
  • 2# AUSTIN IN AUSTIN (2:37)
  • 3# ABOUT ELLSWORTH KELLY (1:59)
  • 4# KELLY IN PARIS (1:45)
  • 5# PLANNING & CONSTRUCTING (2:01)
  • 6# THE EXTERIOR STONE (1:35)
  • 7# TOTEMS (1:29)
  • 8# STAINED GLASS WINDOWS (2:04)
  • 9# MARBLE PANELS (1:50)

Each topic can also be accessed on SoundCloud below.

Co-published in 2020 with Radius Books, this comprehensive book provides a thorough look at the project, from its inception to its current position as one of the artist’s most important and enduring works. An incisive, thorough essay by Blanton Deputy Director for Curatorial Affairs Carter E. Foster includes archival material, drawings, historic photographs, and nearly all related works Kelly created as he developed the building’s design. The perfect companion to your coffee table art book selection.

The hardcover version is available for purchase online.

The exhibition Form into Spirit: Ellsworth Kelly’s ‘Austin’ on view at the Blanton from February 18, 2018 to April 29, 2018 explored Austin’s conceptual origins from throughout Kelly’s seven-decade career.

In the Gallery Guide below, you can delve into the four sections that illuminate Kelly’s explorations of Austin’s major motifs: Spectrum, Black and White, Color Grid, and Totem. These formal concepts were deeply meaningful to him throughout his career, and he created them in drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture.