Austin is a city defined by its creative heart, individual soul and eccentric spirit. Its inhabitants are at its expressive and ever-evolving core, and they wear “weird” as a proud badge of their citizenship. The city and its people exist in a symbiotic relationship, each thriving off the creative energy of the other. Austin has an inspirational vibe that is fueled by the enthusiasm of its people, who are notorious for their active lifestyles, free thinking and love of all things art and media. No wonder, then, that Austin’s visitors are eager to take part in its culture and bring back a part of that unique atmosphere to relive and reflect upon, at home.

Arguably the artistic epicenter of Austin, downtown is alive with the spirit of creation. It is known for its pervasive music scene, diverse performing arts venues and, of course, its eclectic offering of visual arts. From Sixth Street to the Warehouse District, South Congress to The Drag, the streets of downtown are a hive of activity for the visual arts, be it painting, glass, sculpture- even those Austin originals that defy the traditional classifications of artistic media.

Art is everywhere you look, so if you’re in the market to take home a little slice of Austin life, your search will not be a difficult one. The diversity that personifies Austin is reflected in the sheer scope of selection to be had. The streets of downtown offer every genre of art for purchase, in any imaginable setting. Large selections of fine contemporary art hang quietly in peaceful and austere museum-quality settings. Roomfuls of unique sculptures and glasswork are tucked carefully away in tiny antique houses turned galleries. Austin’s offerings also run the gamut of Texas art, whether it’s quirky cowboy-kitsch or sweeping Southwestern-style murals.

In addition to the galleries and museums peppering the downtown and hill country scene, there are numerous festivals and exhibitions throughout the year to expand buying opportunities. One of the highlights includes Art City Austin, occurring over the last weekend in April 2010. Each year, hundreds of emerging and independent artists spread themselves out over the rolling hills and streets surrounding Austin City Hall to sell their creations to thousands of eager art enthusiasts.

For even more of the flavor of Austin, head down to 6th Street in either May or September for the bi-annual Old Pecan Street Arts Festival, a 30-year Austin tradition. The Pecan Street Festival is a smorgasbord of local music, food and arts & crafts.

Visitors arriving in Austin early in the month can catch First Thursday on South Congress. Affectionately referred to as SoCo, this hip, bohemian section of downtown plays host to a wide variety of events and activities, including arts & crafts vendors, street performers and plenty of people watching. Local stores keep their doors open until 10 p.m. or later, and welcome you in with a cold beer and a smile.

Artworks carries fine art, sculpture, jewelry, murano glass, custom mirrors, vintage stemware and much more.

Art on 5th is a 6000 sf gallery full of fantastic original art pieces.