With art from all over the world and over 62,000 different pieces under its roof, a visit to the Houston Museum of Fine Arts is a must for all art lovers. The museum houses works that span thousands of years, from antiquity right up to the present day, and includes work by Frenchman Henri Matisse and American John Singer Sargent. The art is housed in several different buildings around the Museum District, together making up the largest and most significant cultural institution in southwest America.
The architecture on display in the museum complex is noteworthy in itself, from the original neoclassical-style building that was built in 1926, to the two further glass-enclosed galleries that were added in 1958 and 1974, both designed by renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Head outside to the sculpture garden designed by Japanese-American artist and landscape architect Isamu Noguchi. This is home to work by some of the world’s greatest sculptors, including Auguste Rodin and Henri Matisse.
Walk through a tunnel to the modern Audrey Jones Beck building. This is where a tour of the museum should begin, as it houses an impressive collection of American art and sculpture alongside notable European masterpieces. These include a rare chance to see work by Monet outside Paris, in his famous impressionist piece “Water Lilies”.
The original buildings in the complex display work from the last hundred years or so, and are also home to the museum’s impressive South American, African and Asian collections, with ornate sculptures, elaborate carvings and precious gold relics. You can refuel at the museum’s charming café, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks that come to the parking lot every day.
Alongside the large permanent collection are a number of temporary international exhibitions, including masterpieces from Madrid’s famed Museo del Prado and a number of priceless Picassos on loan from the Guggenheim in New York. Take a look at the museum’s official website to find out about the exhibits on display during your visit.
Outside of the main museum complex are two further off-site galleries. The Bayou Bend Collection and Rienzi House are located about 8 kilometres from the main campus and showcase select pieces from the museum’s main collection alongside pieces of American and European decorative art.
Located in the downtown Museum District, the Houston Museum of Fine Arts is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Entry is free every Thursday and free parking is available.
