Photo Forum

Founded in 1988, Photo Forum supports the photography department and has made possible the acquisition of more than 500 modern and contemporary photographs. Patrons gain access to the Museum’s curators and renowned collection through behind-the-scenes seminars, special tours and exhibition receptions, artist lectures, and visits to prominent private collections. Members at all levels are also entitled to cast ballots on works proposed for acquisition at the annual “Vote Night,” the celebratory climax of each year’s calendar. This ongoing program of activities provides an enriching experience for collectors and enthusiasts, and through their contributions, Photo Forum members help the Museum bring the very best of the art of photography to a broad public.

Recent program highlights include:

  • Curatorial presentations of the past year’s major acquisitions in photography
  • Photography-centered patron trip to Chicago with an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to the Art Institute of Chicago and visits to private collections in the city
  • Artist talk with photographer Dawoud Bey in the exhibition Dawoud Bey: An American Project

For more information about Photo Forum, contact Ashley Powell at apowell@mfah.org or 713.639.7594. Please note that a current MFAH membership is required to join Photo Forum. 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
    $7000 FMV: $270

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations for two to exclusive Photo Forum member programs

    Plus:

    • Private curator consultation by appointment
    • May invite two guests to each program
    • First priority for Photo Forum trips and private collection visits
    • Four ballots for annual "Vote Night"
    • An inscribed copy of each photography catalogue newly published by MFAH
  • Benefactor
    $3500 FMV: $270

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations for two to exclusive Photo Forum member programs

    Plus:

    • May invite one guest to each program
    • Second priority for Photo Forum trips and private collection visits
    • Three ballots for annual "Vote Night"
    • An inscribed copy of each photography catalogue newly published by MFAH
  • Patron
    $1500 FMV: $270

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations for two to exclusive Photo Forum member programs

    Plus:

    • Two ballots for annual "Vote Night"
  • Member
    $750 FMV: $270

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations for two to exclusive Photo Forum member programs
    • One ballot for annual “Vote Night”
  • Young Member (40 and younger)
    $500 FMV: $135

    Membership for one individual.

    Members enjoy:

    • Invitations to exclusive Photo Forum member programs
    • One ballot for annual “Vote Night”