The Coppini Academy of Fine Arts, Inc. was founded in 1945 at Trinity University as the Classic Arts Fraternity by Dr. Pompeo Coppini and his protégé Dr. Waldine Tauch.  In 1950, the Classic Arts Fraternity changed its name to the Coppini Academy of Fine Arts to honor co-founder, Dr. Pompeo Coppini.  The State of Texas granted non-profit charter on February 21, 1952, making way for status as a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization.  The Coppini Academy of Fine Arts is often referred to as CAFA.

The CAFA is centered at 115 Melrose Place in San Antonio, Texas.

Classic, representational art is the focus of the Coppini Academy of Fine Arts.  Its mission is to further the interest in classic, representational art through educational programs, demonstrations, workshops and exhibitions. The CAFA also hosts public exhibition of its artist members’ works.

Management of the CAFA is by an Executive Board elected annually in December for a 1-year term.  The Executive Board meets once a month on the third Sunday in the Board Room.  The daily business of the CAFA is managed by a paid Executive Director and volunteer committee chairs.

Education was very important to both Coppini and Tauch so the Coppini Academy of Fine Arts is an active place of learning.  The studio, where Coppini & Tauch created many masterpieces, is the premier location for classes and group instruction 6 days a week.  The gallery, located upstairs, is opened periodically for exhibitions and workshops.  The board room serves as a meeting room for the board and houses the executive director’s office and the archives.

Scholarships are awarded annually to high school students residing in the State of Texas.  This endeavor reached a new height in 2010 with the establishment of a permanent scholarship fund.  

Coppini Academy of Fine Arts, Inc.

115 Melrose Place

San Antonio, TX  78212

(210) 824-8502

888.625.0065