The Contemporary Austin
Gwendolyn Mesa currently serves as the Senior Manager of Creative & Brand at The Contemporary Austin since July 2022, following a lengthy tenure at Eaton Fine Art, Inc., where Gwendolyn held various roles including Director of Projects and Creative Team Leader from September 2006 to July 2022. Gwendolyn specializes in managing custom, curated artwork programs for the commercial and hospitality sectors, consistently exceeding client expectations. Previous positions include Project Designer and Creative Services Coordinator at Whole Foods Market, as well as contracting roles in graphic design at Publishers Resource Group. Gwendolyn's early career included roles at the University Co-op and GSC Architects. Gwendolyn holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts with a focus on Communication Design from Texas State University, supplemented by experience at The University of Texas at Austin.
The Contemporary Austin
Our Mission We invite you to discover contemporary art in settings that provoke thought and joy. Our programs join art with place in a pursuit of a deeper experience, a bigger conversation, and a closer community. Our Vision We believe in the capacity of art to transform lives. We dream of a future where more eyes, ears, hearts and minds are opened by contemporary art in all of its forms. Our Values Extending the Welcome – We want every person to feel like they belong here. Our invitation is completely open and inclusive. Always Caring - We know that details matter. We care deeply about the quality of our work and about the experiences of our guests, the artists we collaborate with, our staff, and all those we have yet to meet. Socially Mindful - We believe that contemporary art is a way for people to connect their personal experiences with the broader social and cultural dialogues of our place and time. Staying Curious - We observe closely, listen intently, and inquire sincerely because we have a boundless fascination with people, art and ideas. Making Progress - We always want to be better—to inspire more deeply, to engage more openly, and to serve more joyfully. We are mindful of feedback and committed to ongoing reflection and iteration. Being Here - A place can transform your experience of art, and art can transform your experience of a place. We activate our downtown exhibition space and our lakeside sculpture park in imaginative ways to serve Austin. Trying New Things - We believe in the importance of experimentation, play, and the surprise that often results from trying something new. We know that progress comes through both bravery and vulnerability.