About

The Beeville Art Museum (BAM) was created and funded by the Joe Barnhart Foundation in 2000 and features rotating exhibits from renowned artists, collections from other museums, galleries, and private collections from across the state.

The Victorian-style house was built in 1910 by Mr. and Mrs. R.L. Hodges and for 72 years the house remained in the family as a private residence. The Foundation acquired the house in 1983 and used it as a gathering place for local artists to paint and explore their craft. The Foundation began renovating the house in 1996 converting the first floor of the house into five gallery spaces. In 2002 a large classroom and meeting space were added to the original structure.  

BAM re-opened to the public in March 2001 with a large-scale sculpture exhibition featuring pieces from established Texas artists including Virginia Fleck, Kathy Hall, Sharon Kopriva, Charmaine Locke, Jesse Lott, Michael Manjarris, James Surls, and Anne Wallace.

Today, BAM continues to reflect Dr. Barnhart’s vision by providing educational programs and activities that stimulate the imaginations of young people throughout Bee County.

Using art education as a positive force, the museum works serves more than 5,000 students annually allowing them to develop creative skills and critical thinking through a diverse combination of programming.

The Joe Barnhart Foundation continues to operate and fund the museum annually allowing for free admission and a variety of free programs throughout the year.