The Wittliff Collections is home to a series of exhibitions revolving around Southwestern culture and artists, and it is located on the seventh floor of the Albert B. Alkek Library. I visited recently, and although it wasn’t my first time, it was the first time I got to enjoy it on my own.
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The experience
When I walked into The Wittliff, I was greeted and asked to scan my school ID. It was a fast and easy process, and I started viewing the collections very quickly. There was a peaceful ambiance in almost every room, and it almost felt like a maze with all the different rooms I could visit! Visiting was a very calming and informative experience. I recommend all Bobcats visit at least once before they graduate!
The collections
I was particularly interested in Ray Benson’s “Through Her Lens” and “Devotion,” which include Our Lady of Guadalupe photographs. The collections all vary greatly, and one of my favorites is Benson’s interactive collection. Benson is a musician highly influential to Texas music. The Ray Benson exhibit includes video, audio, photographs, clothing, and even a motorcycle! The collection provides a unique way to learn about the artist by surfing through all the artifacts he collected throughout his years of touring around the country. Make sure to visit The Wittliff’s website for information and details on these collections.
The culture
The collections focus mainly on Southwestern culture. As a Mexican woman myself, it was a very proud moment to see people with similar last names as mine represented at my university. These collections are rich in culture. From artists in Mexico to Italy or Hungary, The Wittliff Collections represents various minority artists. One of my favorite smaller exhibits is the tribute to Selena Quintanilla. She impacted and continues to impact the Tejano music culture.
The Wittliff Collections provides free admission to all Bobcats! Make sure to bring your mask and school ID, and you will be ready to explore the wonders of our land. If you want to go more in depth, The Wittliff also offers research opportunities. To look at these artifacts more closely, schedule a research appointment through The Wittliff Collections website! Discover something new by visiting the collections on the seventh floor of the Albert B. Alkek Library.
Gisele Coronado is a digital marketing coordinator student worker in the IT Marketing and Communications office.
