Order up! Whataburger Museum of Art to set up shop in Austin for SXSW

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Whataburger fans have served up plenty of love for the homegrown Texas brand — and that loyalty will be on display with an art exhibition during the 2025 South by Southwest Conference & Festivals.

The Whataburger Museum of Art is an online collection of fan art paying tribute to the burger chain. As the Corpus Christi-founded chain celebrates its 75th anniversary this summer, the Whataburger Museum of Art will set up shop at Wanderlust Wine Co. March 8-9.

The two-day exhibition runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. but days at Wanderlust's downtown location at 610 N. Interstate 35. There are more than 200 original pieces in the collection, which includes murals, sculptures and digital art. Interactive installations and digital displays will also be incorporated into the pop-up.

The event is also encouraging guests to create and dedicate their own artwork. Both SXSW badge holders and members of the public are invited to the pop-up gallery.

The Whataburger Museum of Art Instagram account launched in 2021 and currently has more than 22,000 followers. Officials said this marks the first in-person museum event, after the coronavirus pandemic impeded efforts to develop a physical gallery.

“Sometimes a burger is so delicious, the hospitality so sincere that mere words won’t do. That’s why some of our customers turn to paintbrushes and knitting needles. The creativity of our fans never ceases to amaze us,” Whataburger President and Chief Executive Officer Debbie Stroud said in an event release. “From illustrators and muralists to digital creators, these artists have transformed their love for Whataburger into incredible works of art. The exhibit pays homage to 75 years of goodness, and there’s no better way to recognize our community’s passion than by showcasing these customer masterpieces.”