Picasso exhibition opens in Round Rock with art and education partnership

The Museo Casa Natal Picasso opens Nov. 6 in the City Arts Center in Round Rock. The first phase, titled "Dialogues with Picasso," includes about 22 original works by the Spanish artist, along with pieces from his contemporaries and personal collection. The exhibition also includes a recreation of the house in Málaga, Spain, where Picasso was born.

The exhibition is part of an effort by the Texas European Foundation, led by board members Francisco Guitard and Eduardo Galindo. The foundation works with the city of Round Rock and Round Rock ISD on cultural exchange and education. Guitard said Round Rock will serve as a secondary headquarters for the collection tied to the Málaga museum. He said the foundation estimates the exhibition will draw 40,000 people to downtown Round Rock, based on attendance trends for similar events.

Round Rock Chamber President Jordan Robinson said the museum can help attract businesses and families to the area. Robinson said business leaders look for international cultural amenities when deciding where to locate or expand. The city's partnership with the foundation was set up earlier this year.