Former Brownsville Museum of Fine Art to transform into cultural hub

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Brownsville is sprucing up its downtown area by bringing new life to a former museum.

On Monday, the city, along with the Mitte Cultural District, announced a new partnership.

The Mitte, a cultural hub of the district and the city, said it will bring community, art, history, and innovation.

This district will invest at least $ 2.5 million in capital improvements. The changes will happen over the next 18 months at the former Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts.

"This is a new hub for community, art, and culture," said the Mitte Cultural District executive director, Daniella Lopez Valdez. "Making sure that we enrich things that make Brownsville beautiful, as well as putting us on an international stage."

The center will include an art exhibition, live performances, and academic programs, such as
music and writing classes. In addition, a multi-use event hall, a catering kitchen, and a visitor center.

The city hopes this brings in more tourism.

"You are going to see this facility transform into a higher quality space," said Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr. "I think they are going to activate outdoor space for more events. It is going to bring a variety of events to bring more people to the arts and culture in Brownsville, increase tourism, and also showcase the local artists."

The Mitte is already embarking on collaborations with local cultural and educational institutions such as the Children's Museum of Brownsville, the Brownsville Historical Association, Texas Southmost College, and Gladys Porter Zoo.

"For us, it is all about collaboration and partnerships, and I think having the Mitte Cultural District and the Mitte Foundation come together with the city to transform this place into an amazing community, I think it just speaks volumes to the leadership that we have," said Mayor Cowen.

The Mitte is set to open in late 2026. In the meantime, the center is calling for artists and community input.