Open House: Thor Harris
Discover the captivating world of Thor Harris at this exclusive Open House event at the Visual Arts Center! Dive into a lecture and hands-on workshop led by this Austin legend—a masterful musician, carpenter, plumber, and craftsman who's rocked stages with avant-garde icons like Swans, Shearwater, Bill Callahan, and his own experimental ensembles Thor & Friends and Water Damage.
Thor draws from his wild journey through music, art, and life's creative chaos to share tips on thriving as an artist in uncertain times. Expect devilish humor, heartfelt mental health insights, and tales from festivals like SXSW, Big Ears, and Levitation. As a hand-built instrument wizard exploring American minimalism with marimbas and vibes, he'll inspire your inner maker.
- Austin creative staple since 1985
- Frontman of rotating-cast experimental rock supergroup Thor & Friends
- Known for viral listicles on touring and frugal living like a king
- Custom percussion builder with a punk rock spirit
RSVP required—don't miss this intimate chance to connect with Thor's open-hearted vibe and unlock your precarious-times creativity!
The Venue
The Visual Arts Center (VAC) at The University of Texas at Austin is a vibrant gallery and creative hub dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and fostering artistic innovation. Located within the College of Fine Arts, the VAC features 13,000 square feet of dynamic exhibition space where national and international artists, as well as emerging student talent, present thought-provoking work.
- Mission: The VAC inspires community engagement and critical conversation by offering a platform for experimentation, collaboration, and risk-taking in visual art.
- Exhibitions & Programs: Year-round exhibitions highlight both solo and group shows, often foregrounding underrepresented artists. The center also presents extraordinary thesis exhibitions, student-curated projects, and collaborative installations that invite the public to interact with current artistic ideas.
- Artist Residencies: Each academic year, the VAC hosts two artists-in-residence who create new works, mentor students, and culminate their residencies with unique exhibitions.
- Student Involvement: Undergraduate students actively contribute through the Center Space Project, where they curate and organize exhibitions, encouraging interdisciplinary creativity and leadership.
- Community & Education: The VAC regularly organizes workshops, lectures, guided tours, and events designed to spark inspiration, deepen understanding of contemporary art, and connect diverse audiences.
- Open & Inclusive: Admission is always free, ensuring accessibility for all art enthusiasts, students, and the Austin community to engage with cutting-edge visual culture.
Explore current and upcoming exhibitions and learn more about programs.