Austin Newsletter (December 2nd)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

In partnership with

Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Williamson County subdivision standards debated.

  • Texas State extends G.J. Kinne.

  • A deep-dive into the life of Elisabet Ney.

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."

— Mark Twain

Sponsored

The gold standard of business news

Morning Brew is transforming the way working professionals consume business news.

They skip the jargon and lengthy stories, and instead serve up the news impacting your life and career with a hint of wit and humor. This way, you’ll actually enjoy reading the news—and the information sticks.

Best part? Morning Brew’s newsletter is completely free. Sign up in just 10 seconds and if you realize that you prefer long, dense, and boring business news—you can always go back to it.

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Austin event is known for its Christmas light displays and nightly shows during the holiday season?

A) Austin Trail of Lights

B) Zilker Holiday Tree

C) Mozart's Christmas Light Show

D) Luminations at the Wildflower Center

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The street famous for its live music venues and nightlife is D) Sixth Street.

News

💼Business

Developers concerned by potential changes to Williamson County subdivision standards. (link)

Hawaiian Airlines to end Austin-Honolulu nonstop flights in March. (link)

🏒Sports

Texas State, football coach G.J. Kinne agree to contract extension. (link)

Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte talks innovation, fan loyalty and future of college athletics. (link)

🏦Finance

Another tenant inks lease at downtown Austin's The Republic tower. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏉 McCallum Knights vs LBJ Jaguars
3200 Jones Rd, Austin, TX
Tuesday, 3 December 2024 at 5:15 pm | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Soul Man Sam w/ Lindsay Beaver and Brad Stivers
Antone's Nightclub, Austin, TX
Mon • Dec 02, 2024 • 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎵 CupcakKe
Antone's Nightclub, Austin, TX
Tue • Dec 03, 2024 • 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🔴 Art & Yoga
9308 Anderson Mill Rd Suite 200, Austin, TX
Monday, 2 December 2024 at 10:00 am | (more info)

🎪 Wood Carving – Exploring Colors and Textures
1600 W Stassney Ln #B, Austin, TX
Tuesday, 3 December 2024 at 9:00 am | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Futuristic sports arena in Austin hosting a new, invented sport” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Austin Historical Events

1921 - Austin Civic Theatre founded.

In 1921, the Austin Civic Theatre was founded, marking the beginning of a rich theatrical tradition in the city of Austin. Originally known as the Austin Little Theatre, the company officially incorporated in 1932 and later changed its name to Austin Civic Theater in 1949. The company's debut performance took place on June 3, 1921, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, featuring three one-act plays. Over the years, the company grew more ambitious in its play selection, contributing to the vibrant arts and culture scene in Austin.

The Austin Civic Theatre has played a significant role in providing theatrical performances and educational experiences for the Austin community. With a history spanning over a century, the theater has evolved and expanded its repertoire, showcasing a diverse range of productions and engaging audiences with compelling storytelling. The theater's contributions have helped shape Austin's vibrant tapestry of arts and music, celebrating the richness of representation and creativity in the city.

Today, the legacy of the Austin Civic Theatre lives on, contributing to the cultural fabric of Austin and inspiring future generations of theater enthusiasts. The theater continues to be a vital part of the city's artistic landscape, offering a platform for local talent and providing captivating performances that resonate with audiences from all walks of life.

Famous People From Austin

Elisabet Ney - Renowned sculptor

Elisabet Ney: 1833-1907

Elisabet Ney, a renowned sculptor, was born in Prussia in 1833 and left a lasting legacy through the statues she carved and the institutions that honor her life's work. She became the first woman admitted to Munich's celebrated Academy of Fine Arts to study sculpture and achieved fame as an artist, sculpting royalty, politicians, and celebrities throughout Europe.

Ney's Early Life and Artistic Ambitions

Elisabet Ney was born in Münster, Westphalia, Prussia (now Germany) on January 26, 1833, to Johann Adam and Anna Elizabeth Ney. Despite the societal expectations for women at the time, Ney pursued a career in art and became the first woman admitted to Munich's Academy of Fine Arts to study sculpture. Her ambition and talent quickly propelled her to fame as an artist, and she traveled through Europe sculpting portraits of notable figures.

Move to Texas and Legacy in Austin

In 1872, Elisabet Ney and her husband, Scottish doctor Edmund Montgomery, moved to Texas and established a home at Liendo Plantation near Hempstead. Ney's unconventional lifestyle and dedication to her craft made her a prominent figure in the artistic community of Texas. Her home and studio in Austin, now known as the Elisabet Ney Museum, house many of her works and serve as a testament to her enduring legacy.

Artistic Contributions and Recognition

Elisabet Ney's sculptures are housed in various locations, including the Elisabet Ney Museum in Austin and the Texas State Capitol, where she completed commissions for statues of Stephen F. Austin and other notable figures. Her work reflects her skill in capturing the essence of her subjects and has earned her recognition as a pioneering sculptor in Texas and beyond.

Connection to Austin and Lasting Impact

Elisabet Ney's connection to Austin is evident through the preservation of her home and studio as the Elisabet Ney Museum. Her contributions to the artistic and cultural landscape of Texas continue to inspire and educate visitors, ensuring that her legacy as a groundbreaking sculptor endures for future generations.

Key Achievements of Elisabet Ney:

  • First woman admitted to Munich's Academy of Fine Arts to study sculpture.

  • Sculpted portraits of royalty, politicians, and celebrities throughout Europe.

  • Established the Elisabet Ney Museum in Austin, Texas, preserving her artistic legacy.

  • Completed commissions for statues at the Texas State Capitol, showcasing her skill and artistry.

  • Pioneered a path for women in the field of sculpture, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.

Elisabet Ney's story is one of artistic ambition, dedication, and pioneering spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sculpture and the cultural heritage of Texas. Her legacy as a trailblazing sculptor continues to inspire and captivate audiences, ensuring that her contributions to the art world are celebrated for years to come.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons

Poll

What did you think of today's newsletter?

We are always looking for feedback. Give us your honest thoughts.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.