Semmes Gallery
Semmes Gallery, located in the Kelso Art Center, is one of three gallery spaces at the University of the 
Incarnate Word. Frequently hosting students, guest artists, and solo and collective exhibitions, it is a dynamic gallery featuring works as diverse as the artists themselves. At any given time, guests may find paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, photography, digital art and more.
Founders Hall Mural Project
The University of the Incarnate Word is nearing completion for the first few floors of the newly renovated Founders Hall. We invite artists to submit proposals for a three-part mural to bring the space to life. Our hope is that the murals will depict the story of UIW; the past (history), present and future spreading across the first three floors. The story can be seen in its entirety on the second floor; with this in mind all three parts must be connected in some way. The artists or artist selected for this will need to communicate and work together to develop an overarching connection between the murals. The connections do not need to be overt but can be as simple as color theme, various elements or similar style. The murals may also include three-dimensional elements. The deadline to submit proposals is March 31, 2026 as painting is projected to commence June 2026 and conclude by August 1, 2026. We encourage individuals, duos or groups to apply.
*Artists will be compensated
SPRING 2026 Art Exhibitions:
Galactic Warriors Presented by Andy Villarreal
Exhibit on Display: Monday, Jan. 26 - Friday, Feb. 27, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, January 23, 2026, 6 - 8 p.m.
Andy Villarreal is a native of San Antonio, Texas. His experiences traveling in Mexico, especially the Yucatan, coupled with his passion for Mesoamerican indigenous cultures, add energy and intensity to his work. With vivid colors and various techniques, he transforms the cultures into a stylized original art form. Villarreal received his BA from Corpus Christi State University and his MFA from Arizona State University. He is a professor in art at the University of Incarnate Word. His work has been exhibited internationally in museums, universities and galleries and is included in permanent collections across the country.
This exhibition is a collection of works with a nod to ancient Mayan culture through abstract images. These paintings are composed with oils on various textures, including wood, paper and screen-printing screens.
Gallery hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
Kelso Art Center / Semmes and Condos Galleries
(Broadway and Hildebrand on UIW campus)
Free and Open to the Public
SAISD Campuses of Innovation Exhibition 2026
Exhibit on Display: Monday, April 13 - Friday, April 17, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, April 10, 2026, 5 - 8 p.m.
Each year UIW's Art department hosts San Antonio ISD's campuses for an art competition showcasing their best work in photography, drawing, painting, and ceramics for the school year. All campuses have the opportunity to participate ranging from elementary to high school with winners of the competition being announced during the opening reception.
Gallery hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
Kelso Art Center / Semmes and Condos Galleries
(Broadway and Hildebrand on UIW campus)
Free and Open to the Public
Senior Capstone Exhibition 2026
Exhibit on Display: Monday, April 27 - Friday, May 22, 2026
Opening Reception: Thursday, April 23, 2026, 6 - 8 p.m.
In the spring semester of their senior year, Art students have the opportunity to display their work in an exhibit. The Senior Capstone exhibit showcases the art that students have been able to develop and hone during their time at UIW. The exhibit allows students the opportunity to have their work on display in a fully operating gallery before graduating. The experience prepares them for future exhibitions that may interest them to spread their work to a larger audience. The Capstone includes works in various media, such as painting, drawing, photography and ceramics.
Gallery hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
Kelso Art Center / Semmes and Condos Galleries
(Broadway and Hildebrand on UIW campus)
Free and Open to the Public