Located across Branard Street from the The Menil Collection, a small stone building with an interesting roof showcases works from American painter and sculptor Cy Twombly. Stepping inside the peacefully quiet Cy Twombly Gallery, it seems impossible that you are still in Houston!
The Entrance
Cy Twombly began an interesting career in art in the mid-1950s. With plenty of modern art movements around him in New York City, Cy created his own distinctive brand of art. Words such as “free scribble” and “graffiti” are often used to describe his works. Born in the United States, Twombly chose to live in Europe for the majority of his professional career, dying in Rome in 2011.
In general, you will probably love his art, or you will hate it.
If you struggle to appreciate modern art, try focusing on the calm atmosphere of the exhibition space. Sit on the benches, and look at the colors that Twombly splashes on the larger-than-life canvases.
Untitled Part VI (A Painting in 9 Parts), 1988 – Courtesy of cytwombly.info
One room holds seven works on wooden panels, the suite of “green paintings.” At first glance, you may not see anything. But as you look at the shades of green, you may begin to see familiar images: maybe trees, rivers or mountains? Above is one of my favorite pieces from this collection.
The Roof Structure
The Gallery, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, features a roof of canvas, stationary louvers and movable louvers. The result, pleasant natural light that illuminates the works of art below. The ever-changing light plays on Twombly’s artwork, making the pieces appear different depending on the time of day and weather outside.
The Cy Twombly Gallery is part of the larger Menil Collection. While you are in the area, visit the Menil Collection Main Building, Rothko Chapel, Byzantine Fresco Chapel and Menil Park for the complete experience.
As an added incentive to visit, the entire Menil Collection is free!
Live Oak on the East Lawn
The Menil Collection is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Please note, the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The main parking lot located on West Alabama Street offers free parking.
No photography is permitted in the Cy Twombly Gallery.
Author’s Note: During one of our visits to the Cy Twombly Gallery, it was excessively hot outside. Even the Houston wildlife struggled with the unbearable heat. It’s a good thing the Gallery has air conditioning!
One Hot Squirrel
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