When Waller Creek Conservancy previewed its newest creekside art installation Thursday, it had surprise in store. In addition to officially opening Orly Genger’s Hurlyburly—colorful, interactive, pathside sculptures—the hair of the Edward and Betty Marcus Foundation announced a $1.1 million gift to The Contemporary Austin for future art programming along the creek.
The foundation has a had a productive role in Texas arts in recent years. A 2013 gift to The Contemporary made possible the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park on the grounds Laguna Gloria, marking a significant leap forward in the museum's collection.
Its new gift will allow The Contemporary to collaborate with the Conservancy on projects along the downtown stretch of Waller Creek that is currently undergoing major renovation.