“Max Neuhaus: Circumscription Drawings” is now open at the Menil. Born in Beaumont, Neuhaus is a leading creator of “sound installations,” artistic pieces in which sound (and sound would be a more apt term than music to describe the minimalist percussion conks and electronic bleeps of his work) plays a central role.

“Circumscription” is a philosophic doctrine stating that everything is as expected unless there is a reason to think otherwise. (Yes, someone needed to concoct a doctrine to state that.) Neuhaus’s “circumscription drawings” are usually blueprints for the often self-made instruments that provide the sound for his installation, along with text describing how it works. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays. Through August 10. 1515 Sul Ross Street. For information, call 713-525-9400 or visit www.menil.org. Free.

Wednesdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Starts: May 4. Continues through Aug. 4, 2008

This article appears in May 15-21, 2008.