Mennello Museum of American Art | Orlando

The Mennello Museum of American Art, located in Orlando, Florida, offers a rich and diverse experience for art enthusiasts. Here's a more detailed look at what the museum has to offer:

History and Background:

• Established on November 22, 1998, the museum is owned and operated by the City of Orlando.
• It is housed in the former private home of Howard Phillips, son of local philanthropist Dr. Philip Phillips, situated in Loch Haven Park next to Lake Formosa.
• The museum's foundation lies in the vision of former Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood, along with Marilyn L. and Michael A. Mennello.
• The initial aim was to preserve and exhibit the paintings of Earl Cunningham, a self-taught American folk artist known for his vibrant harbor scenes. The Mennellos donated their significant collection of Cunningham's work.

Mission and Vision:

• Mission: To enrich the public through exhibitions, education, programs, and publications that celebrate the diversity of American Art. 1   
• Vision: To be a distinguished and thriving institution recognized as a local and national treasure, building on its city support through strong community relationships.

Permanent Collection:

• The core of the permanent collection is a significant body of work by Earl Cunningham (1893–1977). His paintings are characterized by bright colors, flat perspectives, and depictions of landscapes and marine scenes.
• The museum also holds other works of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and hand-blown glass pieces.
• Selections from the Michael A. and Marilyn L. Mennello Foundation are also frequently on display, showcasing a broader range of American art, including Impressionism.

Exhibitions:

• The Mennello Museum presents a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions featuring traditional and contemporary American artists across various genres and time periods.
• These exhibitions aim to reflect the rich diversity of American art.
• Past exhibitions have included works by artists such as Sally Michel, Mark Messersmith, John James Audubon, and self-taught Black artists from the American South.
• Current Exhibitions (until May 25, 2025): "The Original Influencers: Mernet Larsen, Steve Lotz, and Bruce Marsh," which explores the legacy of these Central Florida artists and educators.
• Upcoming Exhibition (June 6 - September 28, 2025): "Pool Party: The Pool in American Art," examining the symbolism of the pool in American culture.

Marilyn L. Mennello Sculpture Garden:

• The museum boasts a beautiful lakeside sculpture garden that is always open to the public.
• It features abstract sculptures by artist Alice Aycock and other notable pieces.
• The garden also includes walking paths and a significant 350-year-old live oak tree, affectionately known as "The Mayor," draped in Spanish moss, providing a unique blend of art and nature. It's a popular spot for picnics.

Programs and Events:

• The museum offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including workshops and camps.
• Free Family Funday takes place every second Sunday of the month, offering free admission, docent-led tours, and hands-on art projects.
• Music & Story Time is a monthly program for young children that combines storytelling and music related to the exhibitions.
• The museum hosts various special events, such as the annual Indie-Folkfest, painting workshops, and lectures.
• They also offer docent-guided tours for a nominal fee.

Affiliations and Collaborations:

• The Mennello Museum is a Smithsonian American Art Museum Affiliate, allowing them to host exhibitions organized by the Smithsonian.
• They have collaborated with other local institutions like the Orlando Museum of Art.

Visitor Experience:

• The museum is described as quaint and intimate, offering a more personal art viewing experience.
• It is wheelchair accessible.
• Located in the Loch Haven Cultural Park, it is close to other cultural attractions like the Orlando Science Center and the Orlando Museum of Art.

In essence, the Mennello Museum of American Art provides a welcoming space to explore a diverse range of American art, anchored by its significant collection of Earl Cunningham's paintings, complemented by engaging temporary exhibitions, a beautiful sculpture garden, and a variety of educational and community-focused programs.