Learning & Interpretation


Art Is for Everyone

The MFAH is founded on one simple belief: Art is for everyone. The mission of the learning and interpretation department is to offer programs, tours, resources, and materials that teach and engage adults, children, educators, and students in the world of art. The goal is to create experiences that embrace the importance of art and the Museum; to position art and the Museum as a meaningful part of a well-rounded life; and to work with partners who support the community through shared values and interests.

History

Since 1900, when the MFAH opened as an art education project in the public schools, the institution has maintained its mission of bringing art to people wherever they live, play, and learn. This commitment has established the MFAH as A Place for All People, an initiative that began in the 1990s with the support of the Wallace Foundation. Contact outreach@mfah.org to learn more.

Kinder Foundation Education Center

The Kinder Foundation Education Center (KFEC)  is the central source of information on art for visitors of all ages at MFAH. A physical space within the MFAH campus, a hub of resources and materials, and curriculum support for educators, KFEC is the heart of the learning and interpretation department and the driving force that helps the Museum achieve its mission of being A Place for All People.

 

Programs for Adults

The Museum offers a wide range of lectures, guided tours, gallery talks, concerts, readings, performances, book club meetings, and symposia throughout the year. Learn more

Programs for Families

The MFAH is a place for families, featuring a variety of dynamic programs free with Museum admission. Visit the Families section for a look at all the offerings for adults and kids, including art workshops, family days, homeschool programs, drop-in gallery activities, and Glassell Junior School art classes. You'll find printable activities and handy tips for visiting, too!

Programs for Educators & School Groups

Make the Museum your classroom with a free visit to the MFAH, and expand your professional development with a selection of teacher workshops. Looking at, thinking about, and sharing ideas on art support personal growth and reinforce cognitive skills needed for success in all subject areas. Learn more about MFAH resources, activities, and workshops for teachers and students of all ages.

Programs for Colleges & Universities

Find out more about the Museum’s offerings for college students and instructors, including guided tours, internship opportunities, and educational resources.

Accessibility Resources & Programs

The Museum strives to accommodate everyone. We offer options and programs for guests who are blind or have low vision; those with Alzheimer’s or dementia; deaf or hard-of-hearing guests; and those with limited mobility. Learn more about how we can assist you on your visit.

MFAH Learning and Interpretation and Education programs receive generous funding from:

Jerold B. Katz Foundation
Institute of Museum and Library Services
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Sharon G. Dies
Sterling-Turner Foundation
Houston Junior Woman’s Club
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Samuel H. Kress Foundation
The Brown Foundation, Inc.
Susan Vaughan Foundation
CFP Foundation
Joe Barnhart Foundation
Cockrell Family Fund
Ann and John Bookout
Tilman Fertitta Family
Mrs. Denise D. Monteleone
William A. and Madeline Smith Charitable Trust
Claire and Theodore Morse Foundation
The Junior League of Houston, Inc.
Learning Ninjas
Texas Commission on the Arts
Mr. and Mrs. Dan English III
Humanities Texas
Mrs. Nancy Glanville Jewell
Marilyn G. Lummis
Mary Lynn and Steve Marks
John L. Nau III
Strake Foundation
The Summerlee Foundation
Isla Carroll Turner Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wheeler
Christine and Jaime Yordan Foundation
International Fine Print Dealers Association
Polly and Murry Bowden
Nancy and James Gordon
Lubrizol Foundation
and additional generous donors.

All Learning and Interpretation programs at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, receive endowment funds provided by Louise Jarrett Moran Bequest; Caroline Wiess Law; the William Randolph Hearst Foundation; Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff; the National Endowment for the Humanities; the Fondren Foundation; BMC Software, Inc.; the Wallace Foundation; the Neal Myers and Ken Black Children’s Art Fund; Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Ballard; Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Tate; the Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation; Virginia and Ira Jackson; the Favrot Fund; Neiman Marcus Youth Arts Education; gifts in memory of John Wynne; and gifts in honor of Beth Schneider.