Amarillo Museum of Art

The Amarillo Museum of Art, known today as AMoA, has been a cornerstone of cultural life in the Texas Panhandle for more than five decades. Established in 1967 through the vision of local community leaders, the museum was originally created to provide quality visual arts programming for residents of the Panhandle, as well as neighboring regions of New Mexico and Oklahoma. Their goal was not only to showcase art but also to build a center for learning, preservation, and dialogue around creativity.

By 1972, this vision became a reality when the museum moved into a striking building designed by renowned architect Edward Durell Stone, situated on the Washington Street campus of Amarillo College. This unique partnership with the college underscored the institution’s commitment to education and accessibility. In 1994, the Amarillo Art Center officially became the Amarillo Museum of Art, reflecting its growth and expanding mission.

Initially founded as a non-collecting institution, AMoA began developing a permanent collection in 1979. Today, it houses more than 1,800 works that include both Asian and Western art, with particular strengths in modern and contemporary American works. This carefully cultivated collection offers visitors a broad perspective on global and regional artistic traditions.

The museum remains particularly focused on temporary exhibitions and educational programming. Each year, it presents around fifteen exhibitions that span all media, periods, and styles, offering something for both traditionalists and those drawn to contemporary innovations. Education is central, with programs ranging from gallery talks and lectures to classes at the Museum School, as well as outreach initiatives that connect with schools, senior facilities, and community groups across the region.

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1979, AMoA continues to uphold the highest standards of excellence. Through exhibitions, collections, and educational opportunities, it enriches lives, fosters community, and ensures that the arts remain an essential part of the Panhandle’s cultural identity.