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Ruby City is a contemporary art center in San Antonio, TX, dedicated to providing a space for the city’s thriving creative community to experience works by both local and internationally acclaimed artists.
Ruby City is the vision and mandate of our founder and dedicated art collector Linda Pace (1945-2007), who sketched the initial inspiration for the ruby structure after waking from a dream. A sparkling crimson building appeared to Linda in her sleep and then using colored pencil, she sketched the fanciful image and shared it with world-renowned architect Sir David Adjaye OBE. Linda believed strongly in the power of art as a vital social force, a mission the 14,000 square-foot building, two-story building, will further.
Linda Pace commissioned architect Sir David Adjaye OBE to design Ruby City. Born in Tanzania to Ghanian parents, his broadly ranging influences, ingenious use of materials and sculptural ability have established him as an architect with an artist’s sensibility and vision. He founded Adjaye Associates in 2000 and his largest project to date is the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened in the fall of 2016. Adjaye was also named as one of Time Magazine’s Most Influential People of 2017.
We are located near the cross-section of S. Flores St. and S. Alamo St.
The nearest bus station is located at the corner of Camp St. and S. Flores St. and serves the following bus lines: 11, 43, 44, 243 and 251.
Yes, all exhibitions and events are free and open to the public.
Yes! Ruby City welcomes all visitors to our campus! The entire campus is wheelchair accessible, although we do not provide wheelchairs for use. Please note we only allow service animals into our gallery spaces. Visitors with sensory concerns should note that there is a loud air curtain at our front entrance utilized to keep the gallery and artworks protected. There may be loud sounds, various lights, or other sensory triggers throughout the gallery depending on the artwork on view. Visitors with sensory needs are welcomed to bring sensory support tools to enhance their experience at Ruby City. Visitors with specific needs/requests can contact us prior to their visit by calling 210-227-8400 or by emailing visit@rubycity.org
Absolutely! We request that any groups larger than 10 persons make a reservation at least 1 week in advance to ensure that there are no scheduling conflicts.
To make a reservation, please contact visit@rubycity.org.
Public restrooms are located on the second floor of Ruby City as well as in Chris Park and Studio.
Only cellphone photography without flash is permitted.
Any professional photography must be approved ahead of time. For more information please contact communications@rubycity.org.
No food or beverages are allowed with the exception of water bottles to ensure the safety of the artwork.
We welcome visitors of all ages to Ruby City. Because we are exhibiting Contemporary Art, there may be adult content on view. We leave this up to the parent or guardian’s discretion.
Ruby City does not have a retail store or merchandise for sale.
No, but we are lucky to be located in a vibrant part of San Antonio with access to a variety of cafés, restaurants, bars, galleries and more! Check out Southtown Culture and Visit San Antonio for great recommendations!
Service animals are allowed indoors across the campus and leashed dogs are welcome in Chris Park.
No firearms are permitted on the premises. Please refer to Texas penal codes Section 30.06 and Section 30.07 for any further clarification.
Ruby City does not rent out its facilities for private parties and/or events.
Please visit our contact page to find the appropriate staff member for your question.