The mission of the Center for Contemporary Arts is to encourage, empower, and inspire artists, children, and the community through the arts.

The Center for Contemporary Arts was founded in 1989 with the support of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council to provide enriching and educational experiences for the region’s communities through the promotion and support of artists.  

The Center has its roots in an artists' collective that was called The Artists League of Texas. The brainchild of international photographer Bill Wright and local arts supporter Lynn Barnett, the League began in 1984 and provided a place in Abilene where artists could work, commune, inspire, and present their original works. 

Five years after it began, with a desire to expand their space and their influence, the group formed the not-for-profit corporation, The Center for Contemporary Arts. About the same time, a local native who had made it big in the New York art world came back home. Artist Clint Hamilton's unique style and experience in the world of pop art brought an energy and excitement that was infectious. Clint’s art and style were something of a phenomenon here in Abilene and brought attention to the Center that helped it expand its influence.

In 1993, the Board of Trustees renovated an historic building located in the downtown cultural district into classrooms, artist’s studios, and created 4,653 square feet of gallery space.  In 2002 additional renovations provided improved traffic flow, more visually stimulating galleries and ADA compliance. An art research library strengthens the educational element of the Center's mission and is now online with the Abilene Public Library.

READ MORE

ArtBlog
LIZ BOGARD ARTIST TALK
LIZ BOGARD ARTIST TALK

Liz Bogard artist talk for the exhibit “Abstract Expression in Uncharted Territory.”

Remembering Beloved Abilene Artist Van LeBus
Remembering Beloved Abilene Artist Van LeBus

The Center for Contemporary Arts celebrates the legacy of one-of-a-kind local artist Van LeBus.

Honoring Artists’ hispanic heritage
Honoring Artists’ hispanic heritage

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, The Center for Contemporary Arts reflects on contributions of Hispanic and Latinx artists and the vast wealth of cultural richness and depth these individuals bring to the local and global community.

Remembering Ginger Womack Taylor
Remembering Ginger Womack Taylor

Ginger, who lived to be 95 years old, was an artist member at The Center since our founding in 1989. She was considered the life of the party and profoundly impacted the lives of artists and community members through her beautiful art, loving compassion, and vibrant spirit.

Clint Hamilton: An Artful Legacy
Clint Hamilton: An Artful Legacy

Clint Hamilton’s personal and professional legacy are larger than life. His magnetic personality and storied creative dynamism was a driving force, not only in his hometown of Abilene Texas, but in the bright lights of New York City’s art scene during the 1950’s and 60’s.