SRC-JEC S.C.R. 55 78(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.C.R. 55
By: Barrientos
International Relations and Trade
5/15/2003
As Filed


DIGEST

The Legislature of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Mexic-Arte
Museum for its role in the cultural enrichment and education of all Texans
through its presentation and promotion of Mexican and Mexican American art
and culture.  One of the oldest institutions presenting Mexican and
Mexican American art in the State of Texas, the museum is a pioneer in
presenting cultural programs that are deeply rooted in Texas; it has
exemplified the diversity within our state, and it has created important
ties with our neighboring country, Mexico.  Located on Congress Avenue in
the capital city of Austin, Mexic-Arte Museum has for more than 19 years
promoted the artistic heritage of the Mexican and Mexican American
cultures.  The museum was established by the support of businesses,
individuals, foundations, the City of Austin, the Texas Commission on the
Arts, the Mid-America Arts Alliance, the National Endowment for the Arts,
the Consulate General of Mexico in Austin, and the Mexican government
through the National Council on Arts and Culture.  Mexic-Arte Museum
serves as an artistic and cultural bridge between Mexico and Texas through
its exchange programs and by serving as the official Sister Museum of the
Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Studio Museum in Mexico City; moreover, by
agreement with the Mexican government, the museum will host exhibitions of
great art loaned from Mexican museums for extended periods.  This
important resource for cultural enrichment is vital to the economic
development and tourism of the state.  The museum is now in need of a new
facility that will better serve its mission to share with all the people
in the State of Texas the treasures of Mexican and Mexican American art
and culture. 

PURPOSE

Sets forth the following resolutions:

That the 78th Legislature of the State of Texas, recognizing the
uniqueness and significant cultural role of Mexic-Arte Museum, hereby
designate it as the "Official Mexican and Mexican American Art Museum of
Texas" and declare that it also be known as the "Texas State Mexican and
Mexican American Art Museum." 

That a copy of this resolution be prepared for the members of the board of
directors of Mexic-Arte Museum.