Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth | Fort Worth

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is a prominent institution dedicated to showcasing modern and contemporary art. Established in 1892, it holds the distinction of being the oldest art museum in Texas. The museum's current home, designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, opened in 2002 in Fort Worth’s Cultural District. The museum building is a masterpiece itself, with its five flat-roofed pavilions that appear to float above a large reflecting pond. The design utilizes natural light through clerestory windows and skylights, creating a tranquil environment for the viewing of art.

Key Features

Architecture:
Tadao Ando's design for the museum is a fusion of minimalism, light, and water. The pavilions are connected by concrete walls, glass, and steel, with large windows framing views of the surrounding gardens. The reflecting pond that surrounds the building not only enhances the museum's aesthetic appeal but also acts as a reflective surface, symbolizing the relationship between the natural and built environments.

Collection:
The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth focuses on works from the 1940s to the present, with a primary emphasis on American and European art. It houses notable pieces in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video. The collection is diverse, reflecting the development of modern art through movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, Conceptual Art, and Contemporary Art.

Some of the significant artists whose works are represented in the museum’s collection include:

Clyfford Still

Agnes Martin

Gerhard Richter

Jenny Holzer

Philip Guston

Anselm Kiefer

Mark Bradford

Richard Serra (notable for his outdoor sculptures)

KAWS (with large-scale public sculptures displayed on the grounds)

Exhibitions:
The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, often showcasing contemporary artists and emerging talent. These exhibitions are rotated, so there is always something fresh for visitors to enjoy. The museum is committed to providing a dynamic space for both established and lesser-known artists, helping to foster new dialogues in the art world.

Hours & Admission

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Saturday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays and major holidays

Admission Fees:

General Admission (18+): $16

Seniors (60+), Active/Retired Military, First Responders: $12

Students (with ID): $10

Children under 18: Free

Fridays (all day)

Sundays (half-price tickets)

During Spring Break (March 17–21, 2025)

Public Programs & Tours

Public Tours:

Thursday: 2:00 PM

Friday: 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Sunday: 2:00 PM

Sunday Family Tour:
A family-friendly tour every Sunday at 2:00 PM, designed with activities for children to engage them with the art in a fun and educational way.

Architecture Tour:
On the first Saturday of each month at 2:00 PM, the museum offers a special architecture tour focusing on the design of the building by Tadao Ando.

Spotlight Tours:
First Fridays at 6:30 PM, these tours offer a focused discussion on specific pieces or artists in the collection.

Slow Art Tours:
Third Fridays at 5:30 PM, these tours allow visitors to slow down and deeply engage with one artwork for a prolonged period, fostering a more intimate connection with the art.

Location & Parking

Address:
3200 Darnell Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Parking:
The museum offers free parking in its dedicated lots. Additional free parking is available on weekends in the UNT Health Science Center garage and other nearby lots. On Friday evenings and weekends, additional parking is available at the Will Rogers Memorial Center garage. Public transportation options include bus routes and services like Uber, Lyft, and Fort Worth Bike Share.

Outdoor Art

The museum is not only a place for viewing indoor art but also hosts outdoor sculptures. Large-scale works by artists such as Richard Serra and KAWS are displayed in the museum’s outdoor areas, adding an extra dimension to the visitor experience.

Educational Initiatives

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth also prioritizes education and offers a range of programs for different age groups, including school visits, community programs, and special workshops for both children and adults. These programs are designed to encourage greater interaction with contemporary art, making it more accessible and engaging for all audiences.