Houston Center for Photography Celebrates 45 Years with Milestone Auction

The auction features works by renowned photographers like Keith Carter and Earlie Hudnall Jr., honoring the center's lasting impact on the arts community.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Houston Center for Photography is hosting its 45th Print Auction this Thursday, February 19, at Hotel ZaZa. The auction, themed "Echoes of the Ordinary," will honor longtime patron Jereann Chaney and acclaimed photographer Keith Carter for their significant contributions to the institution and the broader arts community. The auction features 76 works by over 70 artists, including local, national, and international photographers.

Why it matters

The Houston Center for Photography has played a vital role in championing the photographic arts in the city for the past 45 years. This milestone auction showcases the center's lasting impact and its commitment to supporting both established and emerging photographers, reflecting the diverse talent and perspectives within the photography community.

The details

The auction will feature a live auction with 30 lots, as well as a silent auction with additional works available for online bidding. Collectors can also take advantage of the Bid High Buy Now feature to purchase certain silent auction items outright. Some lots have already sold prior to the event. The auction will highlight the work of renowned photographers like Earlie Hudnall Jr., whose iconic "Flipping Boy, Fourth Ward" image is considered a defining photograph of Houston, as well as up-and-coming artists like Dionne Lee and Minwoo Lee.

  • The Houston Center for Photography's 45th Print Auction is taking place on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • The silent auction will be available for online bidding until 10 pm on Thursday night.

The players

Jereann Chaney

A longtime patron of the arts and an incisive collector who has played a significant role in numerous cultural institutions, including the Houston Center for Photography, through major donations of important works.

Keith Carter

An acclaimed photographer, educator, and author whose poetic and deeply personal body of work has influenced generations of artists. His work has been exhibited internationally and is included in many private and public collections.

Houston Center for Photography

A non-profit organization that has championed the photographic arts in Houston for the past 45 years, hosting exhibitions, educational programs, and this annual print auction.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This milestone auction highlights the Houston Center for Photography's enduring commitment to supporting and elevating the photographic arts, showcasing the diverse talents and perspectives of local, national, and international artists. The center's lasting impact on the Houston arts community is a testament to its ability to adapt and thrive over the past 45 years.