There were shouts of “wow” and “look, papa, look” chiming out again and again. My daughter had discovered a final home: the sarcophagus of Pedi-Osiris. She came back to it several times, and to the curator's chagrin, she wanted to press against the glass of the case to take a closer look. My son headed over to the Impressionists works, specifically a Monet. He stared at the little Japanese bridge striding over those water lilies. I was drawn to some contemporary works. Figures looking like they belonged in a Day of the Dead procession caught my eye, but it was the flowers on stems in space that drew me into their world.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston is free every first Sunday of the month. Target sponsors the event, as they do in many other cities. It is almost like a big party for kids. There are so many stations were kids can partake of their own art projects, but the performances are range from music to theater. It is a great time to introduce your children to the arts (and arts programs for kids in Houston).
I was most intrigued by a simple set up in front of the doors of one building. The affair was overseen by a local artist, who had rolled out sheets of red paper held down with painters tape. Markers were set on the side. Kids of all ages grabbed a marker to draw their own visions for the world to see. I strolled around the scene, picking out the separate images. I found three main themes: flowers; portraits, and places to live. Here were homes or apartments drawn out by kids and adults. Everyone wants a place to live, which bodes well for my business.
I like driving and walking around the museum district and around the university. Houston does not honor its past often. We are quick to tear down to build-up the new, which makes for an interesting mix of homes and apartments in this part of town. A Modernist design placed next to the latest design of fifties and earlier can be seen. I love modernist elements in a home, but I noticed that most people do not use this style to its most intriguing views. Most settle for a variation of the basic box; however, you can come across some elegant forms here. I also enjoy the smaller older cottages. The graceful arches which adorn the entrance ways, and the sun rooms or porches draw you into the homes. The gardens are filled with inspiration. I hate the idea of an older home being torn down, but it is great to see the love owner's show their homes in this part of the city.
Go to the museum on the first Sunday next month, but then wander through the neighborhood. Be inspired for your own home.
Frank Schulte-Ladbeck
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