The Old Bakery & Artisan Emporium is a historic landmark located in downtown Austin. Local artists and craftspeople keep our artisan shop full of unique, handmade items.
Our Art Gallery features the work of local artists who are 50+ years old. We provide Visitor Center information and have a history exhibit that explores Austin's immigrant history through the Lundberg-Maerki Historical Collection.
Come Check Out Our New Mural!
This is the first mural painted at the historic Old Bakery and Emporium. Entitled “Generational Ties”, the mural visually represents the site’s rich culture and history. The muralist, Ruben Esquivel, is a local Austin-born artist of Latino and Indigenous descent, who was recently voted Austin Chronicle’s Best Muralist 2024.
The mural explores the Indigenous heritage of Austin and the Swedish legacy of the Old Bakery and Emporium. The design prominently features two native women whose braids are intertwined, illustrating the beauty and wisdom that are passed down from generation to generation. The braids are filled with flora, fauna, and the Swedish national flower - the giktgräs. Hummingbirds, believed to symbolize love, joy, and rebirth, and a protective swallow add to the rich symbolism. The background is adorned with a traditional Swedish textile pattern, blending the heritage of both cultures.
The mural is in partnership with the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation's Writing on the Walls program and a partnership with the Austin Parks Foundation and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. An 18-month-long community engagement project ensured the mural project’s success.
Explore Our Artisan Emporium
Extraordinary handmade and one-of-a-kind merchandise celebrating the rich diversity of Austin's cultural heritage.
On Exhibit in Our Gallery
Heritage, culture and art exhibits curated to educate and inspire.
Explore Our Events & Programming
Connect with the community through special events and artistic opportunities.
Learn About the Old Bakery
Austin's colorful past comes alive through the Lundberg-Maerki Historical Collection.
Stay In Touch with the Old Bakery & Artisan Emporium
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