The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens & Museum is burgeoning with history and authenticity. The artwork, its people, architecture, and the tranquil setting strike a pleasant impression, but the genuine hearts behind giving back is what makes this a sacred place.

About UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens

Located right off of Barton Springs Road and across from Zilker Park, this safe haven, known as The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens, is home to the largest collection of Charles Umlauf’s work.
Charles Umlauf was my paternal grandfather. He was a sculptor and painter and was most widely known for his bronze work. He established the art department at the University of Texas at Austin and taught there for over 40 years. In the 1940’s, he and my grandmother Angeline bought the property above the current museum location and lived there until their passing.
I’m sharing this story because The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens has played a huge role in my life. I was 16 when my grandparents made the decision to gift their property to the City of Austin, and today I serve as Chairman of the Board.

Carla Umlauf - UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens Garden Party
Carla Umlauf and her family. L to R: Sophie Cheesar, Cass Cheesar, Carla Umlauf, and Ella Cheesar

At a very young age, my grandfather was greatly influenced by his teachers, which led to his career as an educator and his desire to impact other students’ lives as well. In 1985, my grandparents decided to gift their home, his studio, and 168 bronze sculptures to the City of Austin for public education and enjoyment, which became The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens & Museum.
The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens now provides scholarships, free school tours, after school programs and more. The establishment of this non-profit charitable organization helped spark the beginning of the arts and culture movement in Austin.

Garden Party: Austin’s Best Party

Each year, The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden hosts the Garden Party which is our biggest fundraiser of the year and it’s a blast! The proceeds from this event support the operation of the Gardens, fund various educational programs, and provide free admission and tours to more than 4,500 Central Texas school children. Check out pictures of the 2017 Garden Party from Culturemap.
Giving back to the community I work in has been pivotal in helping me become the person I am today and has helped me develop my business as a residential real estate agent. My involvement with The UMLAUF Sculpture Gardens has opened so many doors, and has led to both personal and professional fulfillment. I encourage you to find a cause you believe in and pursue volunteerism if you can because what you receive back in return is always more plentiful than what you give. Making the world a better place is our responsibility.
About The Author: Carla Umlauf

Carla Umlauf is a second generation Austinite and is highly involved in the culture, business, and development of this city. She has been a Platinum Top 50 Realtor®, a member of The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Million Dollar Guild, the Luxury Home Division at Keller Williams, and has multiple certifications including ABR, GRI, and CNE. The foundation of Carla’s success is a relentless work ethic, knowledge of residential construction & design, strong negotiation skills and an extensive network of friends and colleagues. She strives to give each client honest advice and personalized attention and takes pride in her platinum level of customer service and attention to detail on each transaction. See here for more information.