The Guess Lawson Collection (GLC)
The Guess Lawson Collection champions the work of artists and artists of color whose practices illuminate identity, resilience, and the cultural narratives that shape American life. Spanning a wide range of mediums and styles, the collection reflects a deep commitment to artists—many of whom were engaged early in their careers and supported over time through lasting relationships.
Works from the collection have been exhibited at leading institutions, including The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, The Afrika Museum Amsterdam, The Belville Museum and the Houston Museum of African American Culture. Select works reside in the permanent collections at The Menil Collection, The Blanton Museum of Art and the Houston Museum of African American Culture. Through these exhibitions, the collection fosters dialogue on race, joy, interiority, public space, and the shifting landscape of contemporary art.
Parade (Diptych) 2007
Enamel on Canvas
96×160″
Donated to the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin, Texas
In Conversation
Xavier Nicholas interview with John Guess, Jr., & Melanie Lawson
Explore the dynamic journey of John Guess, Jr. and Melanie Lawson, two prominent collectors as they delve into their passion for art and culture. In this insightful conversation, John and Melanie share their individual paths to appreciating art – from formative experiences with African Masters to the vibrant world of glass art – and how they evolved as collectors. Together, they reflect on the challenges and joys of curating a meaningful collection, balancing aesthetics with strategy, and discovering a shared love for contemporary and abstract art. This dialogue offers a rich perspective on the transformative power of art in shaping identity and connection.
Read Interview
Art League Houston
Special award introduction from local legend Michelle Barnes, Founder of Community Artist Collective, followed by an interview with John Guess & Melanie Lawson.
The Guess Lawson Collection 