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Introduction
Houston, Texas is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. One of the crown jewels of this scene is the Art Museum Houston. The museum is home to a diverse collection of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary works. If you are planning a visit to Houston and are interested in exploring the city’s art scene, the Art Museum Houston is a must-see destination.
History of the Art Museum Houston
The Art Museum Houston was founded in 1900 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most respected art museums in the country. The museum’s collection began with a gift of 20 European paintings from a local businessman, and has since grown to include over 70,000 works of art from around the world. The museum has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years, including the addition of the Audrey Jones Beck Building in 2000.
The Beck Building
The Audrey Jones Beck Building is a stunning addition to the Art Museum Houston. The building was designed by renowned architect Rafael Moneo and features a striking exterior of glass and steel. Inside, visitors will find a wide range of galleries showcasing modern and contemporary art from around the world.
The Caroline Wiess Law Building
The original building of the Art Museum Houston, the Caroline Wiess Law Building, is just as impressive as the Beck Building. The building was designed by William Ward Watkin and features a beautiful neoclassical facade. Inside, visitors will find galleries showcasing art from around the world, including ancient art from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Collections at the Art Museum Houston
The Art Museum Houston is home to a vast collection of art from around the world. Here are some of the highlights:
American Art
The American Art collection at the Art Museum Houston features works from the 18th century to the present day. Visitors can expect to see works by artists such as Winslow Homer, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol.
Latin American Art
The Latin American Art collection at the Art Museum Houston is one of the largest in the country. Visitors can expect to see works from Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. The collection includes works by artists such as Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Fernando Botero.
European Art
The European Art collection at the Art Museum Houston includes works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can expect to see works by artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
Contemporary Art
The Contemporary Art collection at the Art Museum Houston features works from the 1960s to the present day. Visitors can expect to see works by artists such as Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, and Cindy Sherman.
Visiting the Art Museum Houston
The Art Museum Houston is open seven days a week and offers a variety of admission options. General admission is free on Thursdays, and there are also discounts available for students, seniors, and military personnel. Audio tours are available for an additional fee, and guided tours are available by appointment.
Getting There
The Art Museum Houston is located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation. There are several parking garages located near the museum, as well as several public transportation options including buses and light rail.
Conclusion
If you are interested in exploring Houston’s rich arts scene, the Art Museum Houston is a must-see destination. With its vast collection of art from around the world, stunning architecture, and convenient location, the museum is a true gem of the city. Whether you are a seasoned art lover or just looking for a fun and educational day out, the Art Museum Houston is sure to impress.
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