In the heart of Jacksonville, Florida, lies a cultural gem that beautifully marries art and nature: the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This enchanting destination, founded in 1961, offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, art, and horticulture, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
The Cummer Museum owes its existence to the vision of Ninah Cummer, who, along with her husband Arthur, began collecting art in the early 20th century. The couple's first acquisition was a painting titled Along the Strand by Paul King, purchased during their honeymoon in 1906. Following Arthur's death in 1943, Ninah dedicated herself to expanding her collection, amassing over 60 pieces by the time of her death in 1958. Her dream was to create a center of beauty and culture for the community, a vision that came to fruition with the establishment of the museum.
Today, the Cummer Museum boasts a permanent collection of over 5,000 works of art, spanning from 2100 BCE to the 21st century. The collection is particularly strong in European and American paintings, featuring masterpieces by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran, Norman Rockwell, and Romare Bearden. Additionally, the museum houses the renowned Wark Collection of Early Meissen Porcelain, a stunning assemblage of over 700 pieces donated by Ralph Wark in 1965.
For those eager to engage with art on a deeper level, the museum's award-winning education center, Art Connections, offers a variety of interactive educational installations. This innovative space serves underprivileged and special education students, providing them with unique opportunities to explore and create art. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious novice, Art Connections promises an enriching experience for all.
Beyond its impressive art collection, the Cummer Museum is also renowned for its exquisite gardens. The museum grounds feature three distinct gardens, each with its own unique charm and history. The oldest of these, the English Garden, dates back to 1903 and was designed by the landscape architects Thomas Meehan & Sons. In 1931, Ellen Biddle Shipman, another prominent landscape architect, created the Italian Garden, adding a touch of Mediterranean elegance to the property. The Olmsted Garden, designed by the Olmsted Brothers, completes this trio of horticultural delights.
Walking through the Cummer Gardens is like stepping back in time. The gardens have preserved their original layout for over a century, and many of the original trees, now towering giants, still stand. As you wander through the lush greenery, you'll encounter a variety of reflecting pools, fountains, ornaments, and sculptures, each adding to the gardens' serene beauty. Keep an eye out for the numerous lion motifs scattered throughout the gardens, a personal symbol adopted by Ninah Cummer.
One of the museum's most charming features is the Tudor Room, a preserved section of the original Cummer home. This room offers visitors a glimpse into the personal life of Ninah and Arthur Cummer, complete with historic furnishings and paintings from their original collection. Portraits of the couple and a needlepoint by Ninah depicting her beloved Italian Garden add a personal touch to this intimate space.
The Cummer Museum's collection of sculptures is thoughtfully integrated into both the indoor and outdoor spaces. Notable pieces include Janet Scudder's Running Boy, displayed in the courtyard, and Riis Burwell's Entropy Series #26, which overlooks the Italian Garden. The Olmsted Garden features a striking sculpture of Mercury, while the upper tier of the gardens is home to Anna Hyatt Huntington's Diana of the Chase. These sculptures, along with the many others scattered throughout the museum and gardens, enhance the overall aesthetic and provide visitors with a harmonious blend of art and nature.
The Cummer Museum also boasts several special collections that are sure to captivate art enthusiasts. The Eugène Louis Charvot Collection, for example, features over 200 works by the French doctor, army officer, and painter. The Joseph Jeffers Dodge Collection includes 230 works by the American realist artist, while the Dennis C. Hayes Collection of Japanese Prints comprises 190 prints from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also holds one of the largest collections of works by James McBey outside of Scotland, as well as the Eugene Savage Collection, which depicts Seminole traditions in the 1930s.
Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply someone looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by beauty, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens offers something for everyone. With its rich history, diverse art collection, and stunning gardens, this Jacksonville treasure is a testament to Ninah Cummer's enduring legacy and a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
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