Our History

Founded in 1945 by Pompeo Luigi Coppini, an Italian-born sculptor renowned for his public monuments, the academy was chartered as a nonprofit in 1952. Originally called the Classic Arts Fraternity, it became The Coppini Academy of Fine Arts in 1950. Pompeo Coppini built his studio in 1936 at 115 Melrose Place, which has since become a San Antonio icon for representational art. After Coppini's passing, Waldine Tauch, his protégé and prominent sculptor, became instrumental in teaching and mentoring new generations of artists, reinforcing the academy's mission.

Our Founders

Pompeo Luigi Coppini

1870-1957

An Italian-born sculptor who moved to San Antonio in 1901, Coppini built the academy's distinctive L-shaped studio in 1936 while working on the Alamo Cenotaph. He dedicated his estate to preserve classical art and established the Coppini Charitable Trust to ensure the academy's future. Maquettes of his works, including the Cenotaph, are still displayed in the studio today.

Waldine Tauch

1903-1986

Coppini's student and a noted sculptor in her own right, Waldine Tauch co-founded the organization and taught at the academy for decades. After her death, the academy became the beneficiary of the Coppini Charitable Trust, ensuring its continued operation and mission.