Menil Foundation, Inc.

Overview

Discover the Excitement of Working at Menil Foundation, Inc.

Houston, Texas is home to a vibrant and diverse community, and nestled within its borders lies the Menil Foundation, Inc. This unique organization is dedicated to fostering a direct and personal encounter with works of art, making it an exciting place to work for individuals passionate about the arts and community engagement.

The Menil Collection, the main building of the foundation, is an art museum that showcases both special exhibitions and a permanent collection. Situated on a sprawling 30-acre neighborhood of art, the museum is a beacon of creativity and inspiration. It is not just a museum, but a campus that also houses three other museum buildings dedicated to single artists, as well as a drawing institute currently under construction.

What sets the Menil Foundation apart is its philosophy of allowing the art to speak for itself. There are no "didactics" on the walls or media in the galleries, creating an environment where visitors can have a direct and personal encounter with the artworks. This approach fosters a deeper connection between the viewer and the art, creating a truly immersive experience.

The Menil Collection is known for its carefully curated displays that showcase artworks in sympathetic settings. The museum's own collection, which is often rotated, features a diverse range of art from various time periods and cultures. From Surrealist and modern European painting and sculpture to Byzantine and medieval art, African and Pacific Islands art, and art from the ancient Americas and Mediterranean, the collection offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression.

One of the most exciting aspects of working at the Menil Foundation is the opportunity to be a part of loan shows and artist projects. These exhibitions provide new perspectives and scholarship, reflecting the institution's artist-centered approach. It is a chance to engage with cutting-edge contemporary art and contribute to the cultural dialogue.

The Menil Foundation is committed to making art accessible to all. In line with its democratic ideals, there is no admission fee, and all public programs are free. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or financial means, can experience the transformative power of art.

The Menil campus itself is a work of art. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the award-winning Menil Collection building is a landmark in its own right. Its design, in collaboration with Dominique de Menil, aims to make the building appear "small on the outside but large on the inside." Natural light plays a crucial role in illuminating the artworks, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

The other buildings on the Menil campus, such as the Cy Twombly Gallery and the Dan Flavin installation, also boast unique and innovative designs. The Twombly Gallery, designed in consultation with the artist himself, features special sunlight baffles and unpainted plaster walls that create an Italianate glow for the paintings. The Dan Flavin installation, housed in a rehabilitated commercial building, showcases the artist's iconic light sculptures.

In recent years, the Menil Foundation has embarked on a new master plan for its campus. This plan emphasizes the importance of green spaces, arts pavilions, and residences, creating a harmonious dialogue between nature and art. The completion of projects such as the Bistro Menil and the gateway landscape and parking lot has already brought this vision to life.

For those seeking a fulfilling and exciting career in the arts, the Menil Foundation, Inc. offers a unique opportunity. The chance to work in a community that values direct encounters with art, fosters new perspectives, and promotes accessibility is truly unparalleled. Join the Menil Foundation and be a part of a vibrant and dynamic organization that is shaping the cultural landscape of Houston and beyond.