The Mid Main Gallery in Houston, Texas is a great place to explore the work of local artists. Every first Thursday of the month, the gallery hosts exhibitions where visitors can meet the artists and learn more about art, live music, food and shopping. Project Row Houses (PRH) is an art colony and historic preservation project in Houston's Third Ward. Founded by artist and activist Rick Lowe, the nonprofit organization seeks to create an environment of hope and opportunity for residents through its holistic approach to urban revitalization.
Smither Park is another great spot to discover art in Harris County. It features mosaic-covered sculptures created by a community of more than 300 artists. The park was developed by artist and builder Dan Phillips and art patron Stephanie Smither, in honor of Stephanie's late husband, John H. The park has free street parking, a large covered pavilion for group events, and an auditorium shaped like a monkfish.
The Menil Collection is a must-see for art aficionados visiting Harris County. It showcases a tribute to the works of Cy Twombly (1928-201), an American painter and sculptor renowned for his remarkable calligraphic works. The artist's creations not only filled the space, but also influenced the architecture itself. The architect Renzo Piano designed the building inspired by a sketch made by Twombly.
He also chose where in the building his works would be placed. Piano added soft natural light to the gallery with intricate layers of skylight, canvas and a steel awning. In addition to the artwork, the space is equipped with a complex sound system that reproduces site-specific audio installations. The Menil Collection's range of modern and contemporary art ranges from works by Andy Warhol, such as the portrait of Dominique de Menil in the photo above, to pieces by Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Piet Mondrian and everything in between. This era is not only represented inside the main gallery building, but also outdoors, where the lawn displays sculptures by Mark di Suvero and Tony Smith.
Some of the most remarkable are one of Warhol's Campbell soup cans, abstract pieces by Mark Rothko and several pieces by Pablo Picasso. The collection also presents works created by living artists of the 21st century. While the Menil has an extensive treasure of African art and objects, its most unique indigenous collection is its art and objects from the native peoples of the Pacific Northwest. These objects range in time from around 1200 BC up to the middle of the 20th century and represent a wide variety of native tribes. Combined with the African collection, the Menil houses a wide range of indigenous art that intrigues any anthropologically minded art enthusiast. If we consider that Texas art begins with these mysterious cave paintings, I am convinced that there is no better work of art in the state; it starts from a place of profound cultural importance.
The artwork doesn't commemorate any riots, but for many in Houston, this place and its artwork are inseparable, Escobedo said. It was made possible by the drive and generous support of the Downtown Houston Management District, TotalEnergies, and Harris County District One. Looking at other candidates for best work of art in Texas, they all seem to reflect this vision of art as a central part of life - as necessary as food and medicine. The artist was selected from among her colleagues through a competition created in collaboration with UHD, and a committee of Houston art experts chose her work of art. Visitors to Alexander Deussen Park are greeted by a functional piece of public art that was designed and created by Texan artist David Adickes, known for his enormous works of concrete art. The work of art is representative of the legacy of cowboys and of the fundamental influence and history of Mexican and Spanish cultures in Texas and across America. I agree that these are probably two works of art most associated with Texas by art connoisseurs around the world. By presenting a serene figure (a local adolescent) in a moment of quiet introspection, this artwork invites viewers to delve deeper into complexities and challenges related to mental well-being.
Located in Harris County District Attorney's Office in downtown Houston is Lady Justice who appears with her eyes covered holding scales of justice and a sword ready to serve impartial justice for all. The El Franco Lee statue sculpted by artist Chas Fagan is centerpiece at El Franco Lee Service Plaza which surrounds Harris County Jury Assembly building at 1201 Congress St. Chief Jimoh Buraimoh Nigerian painter and artist installed artwork as part Commissioner Ellis' efforts to place public art throughout Harris County. It was made possible by momentum and generous support Central Houston Management District and Harris County District One. Harris County has become an epicenter for unique artwork that reflects its rich history as well as its vibrant culture today. From ancient cave paintings to modern sculptures created by local artists, there is something for everyone to explore here.
Whether you're looking for something traditional or something more contemporary, you'll find it here - all thanks to generous support from local organizations like Downtown Houston Management District, TotalEnergies, UHD, Central Houston Management District and Harris County District One.
