Cornell Fine Arts Museum

Situated in the heart of Winter Park, Florida, the Rollins Museum of Art, formerly known as the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, offers an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Located on the picturesque campus of Rollins College, this museum is a beacon of culture and education, housing an impressive collection that spans centuries and continents. As the only teaching museum in the greater Orlando area, it provides a unique blend of historical artifacts, contemporary works, and educational opportunities.

The History of the Rollins Museum of Art

The origins of the museum date back to the early 20th century when Rollins College began amassing a collection of portraits and natural history artifacts. The addition of fine arts to the collection in the 1930s, thanks to donations from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, marked a significant turning point. The first purpose-built museum on the campus, the Morse Gallery of Art, opened its doors in 1941, funded by Jeannette Morse Genius and her husband, Dr. Hugh McKean, who later became the college's president.

In 1976, a generous donation from George and Harriet Cornell facilitated the construction of a new fine arts complex, leading to the opening of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum in 1978. This institution became Florida's first college art museum to be accredited by the American Association of Museums in 1981. A major expansion in 2004-2005 added six galleries and a print study room, enhancing its capacity to display and study its extensive collection.

In 2013, the museum expanded its reach with a satellite exhibition space at The Alfond Inn, showcasing the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. This philanthropic boutique hotel, owned by Rollins College, contributes its proceeds to student scholarships. In 2021, the museum was renamed the Rollins Museum of Art, marking a new phase in its history and signaling the start of a capital campaign for a new state-of-the-art facility in Winter Park.

Exploring the Collection

The Rollins Museum of Art boasts a diverse collection of over 5,000 objects, ranging from antiquities to contemporary pieces. Visitors can explore over 500 paintings from the 14th to the 21st centuries, offering a panoramic view of art history. The museum also houses more than 1,500 prints, drawings, and photographs, as well as over 1,100 ethnographic objects and fragments, some of which were donated by the Smithsonian Institution after a fire in the 1920s.

Among the highlights of the museum's collection are the old master paintings donated by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation in the 1930s, including works by Lavinia Fontana and Francesco de Mura. The 1948 donation of an oil painting by Grandma Moses, Out on the Lake, and the 1950s contributions from Winter Park resident George H. Sullivan, further enriched the collection.

The 1960s saw significant contributions from Rollins alumni Jack and June Myers, who donated works by renowned artists such as Gerolamo Bassano, Jacopo Tintoretto, and William-Adolphe Bouguereau. In 2000, the museum received over 30 paintings and drawings from the Bloomsbury Group, bequeathed by Kenneth Curry. The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts donated 156 photographs and Polaroids in 2008, adding to the museum's contemporary holdings.

One of the most notable additions to the collection is the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art, donated by Barbara and Ted Alfond in 2013. This collection, which includes over 230 works by established and emerging artists from around the world, continues to grow and evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of contemporary art.

Notable Artists and Works

The Rollins Museum of Art's collection features works by a wide range of artists, from old masters to contemporary visionaries. Visitors can admire pieces by Lavinia Fontana, Cosimo Roselli, and Francisco Solimena, as well as modern and contemporary artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

The museum also showcases works by influential artists like Kara Walker, Tracey Emin, and William Kentridge, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic developments across different periods and styles. Other notable artists represented in the collection include Francis Bacon, Albert Bierstadt, Winslow Homer, and William Merritt Chase, ensuring that there is something to captivate every visitor.

Educational Opportunities and Programs

As a teaching museum, the Rollins Museum of Art is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for students and the wider community. The museum offers a range of programs, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours, designed to engage visitors with the collection and foster a deeper understanding of art and its historical context.

The museum's print study room is a valuable resource for students and researchers, offering access to a wealth of materials for study and exploration. The museum also collaborates with Rollins College faculty to integrate its collection into the curriculum, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and unique insights into the world of art.

Visiting the Rollins Museum of Art

A visit to the Rollins Museum of Art is a journey through time and across cultures, offering a rich tapestry of artistic expression and historical significance. Whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply looking for an enriching cultural experience, the museum has something to offer.

The museum is conveniently located on the Rollins College campus in Winter Park, making it easily accessible for visitors. Admission is free, and the museum is open to the public, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore and appreciate its remarkable collection.

In conclusion, the Rollins Museum of Art is more than just a repository of art; it is a vibrant cultural institution that plays a vital role in the educational and cultural life of the community. Its diverse collection, rich history, and commitment to education make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the world of art.