In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Briscoe Western Art Museum will present Tejano Legacy: Another American Origin Story, a landmark bilingual exhibition exploring nearly 400 years of Tejano history, culture and identity and the enduring influence of Tejanos on Texas and the American West.

Opening to the public July 24, the exhibition is the most ambitious in the Briscoe’s history and will feature more than 100 rare artworks, artifacts and immersive storytelling drawn from extraordinary private collections, the Briscoe’s permanent collection and institutional lenders from across the United States and Mexico. Several works loaned from Mexican institutions, considered part of the country’s cultural and historical heritage, will be seen in the United States for the first time, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience objects and artworks that deepen and broaden the understanding of Tejano identity and its connection to the story of the American West.

Spanning from the 16th century to modern times, Tejano Legacy traces the evolution of Tejano identity through art, ranching traditions, military service, music, faith and community. Through paintings, sculpture, saddles, textiles, historic objects and contemporary works, the exhibition highlights the resilience, innovation and cultural influence that continue to shape South Texas, San Antonio and the Southwest today.

“Tejano history is American history, and there is no better place to tell this story than San Antonio,” said Liz Jackson. “This exhibition reflects generations of culture, artistry and resilience that helped define Texas and the American West. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, the Briscoe is proud to honor the people, traditions and stories that continue to shape and influence our communities today.”

Presented bilingually in English and Spanish, the exhibition aligns with the Briscoe’s mission to preserve and present the art, history and culture of the American West while expanding the lens through which those stories are interpreted and shared. Lending institutions include Bandera Natural History and Art Museum, Hunter Museum of American Art, Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), Library of Congress Geography and Map Division, Museo de Historia Mexicana, Museo Nacional de Historia Castillo de Chapultepec, Museo Nacional del Virreinato, Museo Regional de Querétaro and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Gabriela Gámez serves as the exhibition curator.