After years of planning, more than a year of construction, and $35 million, the Blanton Museum of Art is unveiling some brand new grounds.

Guests are invited to celebrate the new space tomorrow, so let’s get the low-down on the changes.

The new mural "Verde, que te quiero verde” was commissioned by Cuban American artist Carmen Herrera. | Photo courtesy Blanton Museum of Art

What’s new

The effort fills in the museum’s 200,000-sqft property, bringing an artistic experience outdoors and connecting the main building with Ellsworth Kelly’s “Austin.”

One of the largest changes is at the Moody Patio: a new, shady canopy of 15 petal-shaped structures that looks like art pieces themselves. The patio — which was designed by UT graduates at architecture firm Snøhetta — will also have raised platforms for live music and other performances.

Other additions include:

25,000 new, mostly native plants
Two new murals: One called “Verde, que te quiero verde” by Cuban-American artist Carmen Herrera, and another called "HI" by Kay Rosen
A Butler Sound Gallery with recordings of Texas wildlife and geology
A new, rainbow installation in the lobby titled "Plexus No. 44"

No, it's not a trick of the light — the art piece "Plexus No. 44" is just inside the Blanton's doors. | Photo courtesy Blanton Museum of Art

But it’s not just new grounds — the programming is changing, too.

The Blanton is now open until 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and will shift its free admission days from Thursdays to Tuesdays. The museum will also launch Second Saturdays, which will include public programming and special events.

Stay tuned, because a new cafe is also in the works.

The Blanton's entryway and grounds got a glow-up just in time for summer. | Photo courtesy Blanton Museum of Art

Join the celebration

Stop by the museum at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 for:

Guest speakers and announcements
Live music by Gina Chavez, the Peterson Brothers, DJ Ella Ella, and Adrian Quesada
A one-day printmaking exhibition
Readings by Texas writers
Food for purchase by Flyrite Chicken, Tamale Addiction, Amy’s Ice Creams and more

Events on the Moody Patio are free to attend, but access to the museum and “Austin” installation cost normal admission fees. RSVP here.