The history of art museums in Houston can be traced back to the late 19th century, when a group of citizens came together to form the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. The museum was officially founded in 1900 and was the first art museum in the city. Since then, several other art museums have been established in Houston, each playing an important role in shaping the cultural landscape of the city.

The Houston Museum of Fine Arts, also known as MFAH, was founded in 1900 by a group of citizens who were passionate about art and wanted to create a space where the people of Houston could experience and appreciate art. The museum's first building was a small, neoclassical-style building that was located in the heart of the city. Over the years, the museum has grown in size and scope, and today, it is one of the largest art museums in the United States, with over 70,000 works in its permanent collection.

In 1987, the Menil Collection was established by John and Dominique de Menil, who were art collectors and philanthropists. The Menil Collection is known for its collection of ancient art and its Rothko Chapel, which features works by the famous American artist Mark Rothko. The Menil Collection's collection of ancient art includes works from Greece, Rome, and Egypt, as well as a collection of Byzantine art.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Houston was founded in 1972, and it focuses on contemporary art and emerging artists. The museum's collection includes works by some of the most important contemporary artists of the 20th and 21st century, including Cindy Sherman, Donald Judd, and Sol LeWitt. The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions, showcasing works by emerging artists, as well as retrospectives of established artists.

In conclusion, the history of Art museums in Houston is a rich and diverse one, starting from the late 19th century with the establishment of the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, and followed by the Menil Collection, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Houston. Each of these institutions has played an important role in shaping the cultural landscape of Houston and has made significant contributions to the art world. Today, art museums in Houston continue to be an important part of the city's cultural heritage and offer a wide range of opportunities for visitors to explore and appreciate art.