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.