Explore the Art and Beauty of Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville Florida
Nestled on the banks of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida, lies a destination that’s a paradise for art and garden lovers – the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The museum has been captivating visitors with its stunning collection of art pieces and elegant gardens since 1961. Let’s go on a virtual tour of the museum, showcasing its rich history, vast collection, and some of the iconic pieces.
History and Architecture
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is sited on what was once the home of Arthur Cummer and his wife, Ninah. The couple was passionate about art and began to collect pieces from all over the world. Over the years, their collection grew and, in 1958, upon Ninah’s death, they bequeathed their 2.5-acre riverfront garden along with their personal art collection to Jacksonville’s public schools. The museum building was designed by the renowned architectural firm of Marsh and Saxelbye and opened its doors to the public in 1961, featuring Medieval and Renaissance art from the Cummer collection, along with several new acquisitions.
Art Collection
The museum boasts an impressive collection spanning over 5,000 years of art and 5 continents with over 5,000 objects, including significant pieces from John James Audubon and Peter Paul Rubens. The fine arts collection features pieces ranging from Mexican ceramics and pre-Columbian objects to paintings and sculptures by artists like Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer, and Augusta Savage. The museum also houses rare books, manuscripts, and letters by authors such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Gardens
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens boasts 2.5 acres of beautifully landscaped historic gardens along the St. Johns River. The gardens have been modified over the years and offer a diversity of garden styles, including an Italian garden, a water garden, an arboretum, a butterfly garden, and sculptures scattered throughout. Visitors can stroll on a paved path on the riverbank and take in the breathtaking view of the river, Downtown Jacksonville, and the Main Street Bridge.
Education and Events
The museum hosts numerous educational programs, art classes, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages, including school tours, art and garden camps, and lectures/workshops related to current exhibitions. The museum also organizes various events throughout the year, from concerts, tea socials, to garden weddings.
If you’re looking for a place to appreciate art, history, and nature, look no further than the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The museum offers a unique experience, with its rich history, vast collection, gorgeous gardens, and unique events. It’s a perfect destination for a family outing, a date, or a solo exploration. So, next time you’re in Jacksonville, don’t miss this hidden gem that beautiful should not go unnoticed.
4083 Sunbeam Rd #2510,
Jacksonville, FL 32257
