In 2007, Linda Pace made her dream come to life when she founded Ruby City, a museum housing her extensive art collection. The building itself is a beautiful work of contemporary art that stands out as the shining red jewel of San Antonio. 

Ruby City is a part of a campus that includes a one-acre park and sculpture garden and an auxiliary exhibition space known as Studio. Together, Ruby City, Chris Park, and Studio provide a space to create, receive, and understand innovative expressions of art. By showcasing the work of locally and internationally acclaimed artists, hosting community events, and offering workshops, Ruby City remains committed to Pace’s vision that contemporary art is essential to a dynamic society. 

Although the sheer variety of art and activities offered by Ruby City is impressive in and of itself, the impact it leaves on visitors and the broader community is unbeatable. Every other Saturday this June and July, Ruby City hosted Morning Grounds, a gathering in Chris Park with coffee and creative opportunities. Chris Park is also the platform for meditation groups, yoga classes, art exhibitions, and musical performances that are all free and open to the public. 

In Ruby City’s Dreamwork Workshop, a professional dream interpreter guides participants as they explore their dreams, learn to recognize symbols, and gain new techniques to understand their subconscious as a source of creativity and self-awareness. 

Contemporary art can feel intimidating to many people, and some may find conceptual art, digital art, hyperrealism, and installation art inaccessible. But Ruby City’s attention to detail and focus on the guest experience makes every visitor feel like they belong. It is walkable, quiet, and designed with Pace’s belief in curating spaces for creativity in mind. 

In addition, the fact that activities, events, and exhibits are free and open to the public should not be taken for granted. Education, global connection, and bridges to community are the pinnacles of a multifaceted society. Without art, we would be lacking an international language that has the power to bring us all together. 

Whether you are a native San Antonian looking for a new adventure or a weekend visitor, Ruby City is an architectural and cultural jewel that should not be missed. 

To learn more, listen to the latest Tripod episode, “Ruby City: Dreaming and Believing,” check out Linda Pace’s book Dreaming Red: Creating ArtPace, and visit the Ruby City website for upcoming events, exhibits, and experiences. 

By Lily Brennan