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WAR/PHOTOGRAPHY: Images of Armed Conflict and Its Aftermath

About the exhibition

On Veterans Day 2012, the MFAH debuts an unprecedented exhibition exploring the experience of war through the eyes of photographers. WAR/PHOTOGRAPHY: Images of Armed Conflict and Its Aftermath gathers together nearly 500 objects, including photographs, books, magazines, albums, and photographic equipment.

Images recorded by more than 280 photographers, from 28 nations, span 6 continents and more than 165 years, from the Mexican-American War in the mid-1800s to present-day conflicts. Iconic photographs as well as previously unknown images are featured, taken by military photographers, commercial photographers (portrait and photojournalist), amateurs, and artists.

Plan Your Visit
• Download a map of the exhibition floor plan.
• The photographs in this exhibition may not be suitable for all visitors.

The exhibition examines the relationship between war and photography, exploring the types of photographs created during wartime, as well as by whom and for whom. Rather than being organized chronologically, or as a survey of “greatest hits,” the images are arranged to show the progression of war: from the acts that instigate armed conflict to “the fight,” to victory and defeat, and photos that memorialize a war, its combatants, and its victims. Portraits of servicemen, military and political leaders, and civilians are a consistent presence.

Accompanying the show is a 600-page illustrated catalogue featuring interviews and essays by curators, scholars, and military historians. After the Houston premiere, WAR/PHOTOGRAPHY travels to the Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles; the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC; and the Brooklyn Museum.

Click below for a brief behind-the-scenes preview of this powerful exhibition.

 

Tickets

Admission to this exhibition requires a timed-entry ticket, which also provides general admission to the museum. MFAH Members receive free tickets based on level of membership. For the general public, tickets are $18 for adults; $15 for senior adults (65 and older), students with valid ID, and youth ages 6 to 18. Reduced-rate tickets are available on Thursday, in accordance with the Free Thursday program sponsored by Shell. Audio guides are available at the rate of $5 for adults and senior adults (65 and older); $4 for youth ages 6 to 18; and $3 for MFAH Members. 

The photographs in this exhibition may not be suitable for all visitors.

All tickets are available here.

Groups
Groups of 10 or more may arrange for a visit or tour during museum hours. Evening packages—which include a tour and reception for up to 50 individuals—are also available. Please contact the group sales office at 713.639.7878.

Military Guests
Thanks to generous funding from Chase, admission is free through the run of the exhibition for active-duty military and veterans who present ID, plus one guest. Although admission is free, a timed ticket is required for entry. Military families with ID receive $2 off the price of each ticket.

MFAH Members
Free tickets based on level of membership:

Membership Level	Complimentary Admissions
Student	1
Individual	1
Dual	2
Family	2 adult admissions; admission for children 18 & under living in the same household
Patron	4
Supporting	4
Sponsor	6
Benefactor	6
Leadership Circle	unlimited admissions