Welcome, art enthusiasts! Are you in search of a place that flawlessly combines art and nature? Look no further than Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This hidden gem is nestled in the heart of Jacksonville, Florida, and boasts a collection of over 5,000 works ranging from impressionist paintings to contemporary sculptures. The museum is not just limited to art, as it is also known for its stunning gardens that offer a serene escape to visitors from their busy lives. This spectacular museum is an excellent destination for anyone seeking a day of serenity and enchantment.
Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: A Must-Visit Destination for Art and Nature Enthusiasts
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the most beloved cultural institutions in the region. Comprising over 6,000 works of art, spanning several millennia and originating from various regions of the world, the museum offers visitors the chance to experience a diverse range of artistic movements and styles throughout history.
But the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is not just a place for art enthusiasts. The museum also boasts an enchanting garden, a place of tranquility and beauty that covers 2.5 acres of land and features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. With its fountains, sculptures, and a reflecting pool, the garden is the perfect place to escape from the bustle of everyday life and immerse oneself in the natural world.
A Brief History of the Museum and Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens was founded by Ninah Mae Holden Cummer, a passionate art lover, in memory of her husband, Arthur Cummer, who was an avid art collector. The museum was originally established as a small gallery in the family’s riverside home in 1961, but it soon outgrew its original space and moved to its current location in 1962.
Over the years, the museum has gone through several renovation and expansion projects, with the most recent being a $20 million restoration and enhancement project that was completed in 2011. The project included the construction of an education center, a new pavilion, and additional galleries for the museum’s growing collection of artworks.
Art Collections and Exhibitions
Visitors to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens will undoubtedly be impressed by the vast array of art collections and temporary exhibitions featured at the museum. The museum’s permanent collection includes nearly 1,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity.
Among the highlights of the permanent collection are the museum’s holdings of European and American paintings, with works by such renowned artists as Thomas Cole, Frederic Church, Edgar Degas, and Renoir. Visitors can also admire the museum’s impressive collection of Meissen porcelain, one of the finest in the world.
The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works by local and regional artists as well as traveling exhibitions from other museums. Recent exhibitions have included “Nature and Opulence: The Art of Martin Johnson Heade,” “LIFT: Contemporary Expressions of the African American Experience,” and “Robert Henri and Spain.”
Outdoor Spaces and Landscaping
The gardens at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens are a true oasis of beauty and tranquility, offering visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the natural world.
The gardens were originally designed by landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman in 1932 and were later expanded and enhanced by Thomas D. Church in the 1960s. Today, the gardens encompass several distinct areas, including the Olmsted Garden, a space designed in the style of Frederick Law Olmsted, and the Italian Garden, complete with a reflecting pool, pergola, and traditional Italianate planting schemes.
The Cummer Oak, a majestic tree that stands at the entrance to the museum’s gardens, is believed to be over 200 years old and is a popular spot for visitors to the museum. Other highlights of the garden include a fountain garden, a butterfly garden, and a native plant garden that showcases Florida’s distinctive flora and fauna.
Overall, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is an exceptional cultural institution that combines the beauty of art and nature in a unique and unforgettable way. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and diverse cultural traditions of human creativity.
Visiting the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: Practical Information and Tips
Tickets, Hours, and Location
If you are planning to visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, it is essential to know the practical information before arriving. It is located at 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204, USA. The museum is open on Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 9 PM and on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays and major holidays. However, the garden is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on major holidays.
The ticket prices are $10 for adults, $6 for seniors, military, and students with valid IDs. Children under five years old can visit the museum for free. Members of the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens can enjoy free admission, as well as some discounts on special events and art classes. If you plan to visit the museum regularly, joining as a member would be an excellent investment.
The museum provides various options to get to its location. You can drive there, and paid parking is available. If you plan to come by public transportation, consider using the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) buses that stop near the museum. Another option is taking a bike through the Jacksonville bike-sharing program.
Guided Tours and Events
If you want to explore more about the museum and get the most out of your visit, joining a guided tour is a great option. The museum provides docent-led tours that explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions, the gardens, and the history of the Cummer family and their collection. The tours are available on every Saturday and Tuesday at 2 PM, and included in the admission price.
Additionally, the museum provides various events and programs that cater to different age and interests, such as art classes, concerts, film screenings, and seasonal celebrations. The events are often free or discounted for members, and some require advance booking. Check the museum’s website or contact the visitor center to know more about upcoming events and how to book them.
Amenities and Accessibility
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens provides various amenities and services to visitors. The museum’s gift shop offers a range of art-related gifts, books, and souvenirs. The cafe provides refreshments, snacks, and lunch with indoor and outdoor seating. Restrooms are available in several locations within the museum and garden, and baby changing stations are provided in the restrooms.
The museum is also committed to providing accessible services and features for visitors with disabilities. All public areas and exhibition spaces are accessible by wheelchair, and wheelchairs and walkers are available to borrow. Sign language interpretation for tours and programs can be arranged with advance notice. Service animals are welcome, and several sensory-friendly tools and resources are available at the visitor center.
Overall, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens provides a fascinating and enjoyable experience for anyone who loves art, nature, and history. By knowing the practical information and taking advantage of the different options, visitors can make the most out of their visit to this unique cultural institution.