Friends of American Arts

Friends of American Arts is a patron group offering social and educational programming that gives insight into the diverse field of American art. With a particular focus on the rich time period from the 18th century through World War I, programs explore important art movements, as well as craftsmen working across media, from paintings, works on paper, sculpture, and furniture, to ceramics, glass, silver, textiles, and photography. Programming highlights a range of themes during this period, such as Colonial Era and Gilded Age portraiture, the American West, and the Arts and Crafts movement. Events also showcase works by Native American and African American artists to introduce a full range of American art and techniques to group members. Annual patron events include scholarly lectures, exclusive visits to private collections in Houston, behind-the-scenes tours led by conservators and curators, and auction previews. Friends of American Arts supports American art acquisitions at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Past program highlights include:

  • Special lecture with Christie’s Americas on the American art market, followed by an art-inspired wine tasting
  • After-hours private reception and curator-led tour of the exhibition Miss Ima Hogg & Modernism
  • Guest speaker on the extraordinary career of American artist Charles M. Russell, featuring the recent MFAH acquisition of Russell’s Approach of the White Men
  • Exclusive access and discussion with conservators at the Sarah Campbell Blaffer Foundation Center for Conservation on conservation of paintings from the American art collection as well as the science behind the processes

For more information about Friends of American Arts, contact Ashley Powell at apowell@mfah.org or 713.639.7594. Please note that a current MFAH membership is required to join Friends of American Arts. Visit mfah.org/jointoday for information about MFAH membership levels and benefits.

Parking in the Museum’s garages is complimentary during Patron Group events! Members of Patron Groups also enjoy the discounted MFAH member rate when parking during regular Museum visits. Learn more about parking.

Levels

  • Founder
    $5000 FMV: $75

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Friends of American Arts member programs

    Plus:

    • The opportunity to bring guests to programs
    • Private curator consultation by appointment
    • Complimentary catalogues as determined by the program and exhibition schedule
  • Benefactor
    $2500 FMV: $75

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Friends of American Arts member programs
  • Patron
    $1000 FMV: $75

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Friends of American Arts member programs
  • Member
    $500 FMV: $75

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Friends of American Arts member programs
  • Young Member (40 and younger)
    $300 FMV: $35

    Membership for one individual.

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Friends of American Arts member programs