With all the things that Jacksonville, Florida has to offer, make some time to visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The collection of great paintings from the European continent and from the United States is reason enough for many art lovers to visit. The addition of the unusual collection of Meissen porcelain is the proverbial icing on the cake.
There's more! This unique facility also features formal gardens that fit well with the river side setting. Opened in 1961, the museum has its roots in the small collection of Ninah Cummer. In the nearly 50 years since its opening, this collection has grown to include more than 6,000 pieces.
The museum's vision includes emphasis on education and entertainment as well, with regular lectures and concerts added to the educational focus designed to enhance a visitor's time in the facility. Visitors can get a close look at thousands of years of art history through individual and group activities, with some exhibits encouraging physical interaction. Other displays offer a visitor the chance to create something on their own, through several media.
The reception/meeting area of the museum is perfect for presentations as well as for receptions. Businesses often take the opportunity to hold seminars and informal gatherings here as well. Through the nearly five decades of its existence, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens has been the beneficiary of many patrons, whose art gifts have been part of the facility's tremendous growth.
For those with a desire to enjoy outdoor beauty, two acres of formal gardens, the work of Ninah Cummer, add to the attractiveness of the museum. In addition, the museum holds special exhibitions, including Asian art, American art and photography.