I loved statistics when I was growing up (surprise…), and was always proud that Houston (Texas’ largest city) was one of the ten largest cities in the United States. I never really stopped to think why it was so big, since it didn’t have a lot to offer climate-wise (but April will be lovely!), or topographically. But perhaps Houston encourages migration from everywhere, not unlike New York, and a kind of promise of possibility that cities developing after World War II seem capable of delivering.
But the lack of a definite profile (and zoning) also makes it fun. When you visit, you’ll see vestiges of Western-Southern-New South-Red State-all tied up in a modern package that may look more like a city in the burgeoning Far East or modern Arab capitals than the US. Perhaps it’s no coincidence, since oil and energy and the monies they generate rule the roost there.
Like many cities
created over a short period, there is a lot of pride there-and generosity of
spirit, as exemplified by the recent bequest of one woman who left her entire
estate to the MFA, Houston. I have no doubt that the Texas chapter is
prepared to capitalize on this spirit, so I hope you’ll join me in seeing what
the future can bring, not only for our profession but in a city that
personifies the 21st century.
Fifth in a series of personal reflections on Houston.
_____________________________
Milan R. Hughston
Chief of
Library & Museum Archives
The Museum
of Modern Art
11 W. 53rd St.
New York, NY 10019
212/708-9409;212/333-1122 (fax)
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