Orlando Museum of Art | Orlando

Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) – In Detail

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is one of Central Florida’s premier cultural institutions, providing a platform for both regional and international artists. The museum offers a rich mix of contemporary art, traditional works, and exhibits that explore cultural narratives and history. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can expect during your visit:

🏛️ Museum Overview

Location: 2416 North Mills Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803

Established: 1924

Mission: The Orlando Museum of Art aims to inspire creativity and intellectual curiosity by connecting people of all backgrounds to compelling art and new ideas. The museum achieves this through diverse programming, exhibitions, and community outreach. It serves as both a cultural hub and an educational space.

Facilities: OMA is housed in a modern, spacious building located within Loch Haven Park, a beautiful green space in Orlando. The museum features a variety of galleries, event spaces, and outdoor areas for performances and art installations.

🖼️ Key Exhibitions & Collections

The museum boasts an array of permanent and rotating exhibitions that explore everything from local to international artists, historical artifacts to contemporary works, and much more. Some of the key exhibitions include:

1. Current & Upcoming Exhibitions

Edouard Prulhière: The Inverted Sound of Painting (Jan 25 – May 2, 2025)
This solo exhibition features the work of French-American artist Edouard Prulhière, focusing on his transformative period from 1995 to 2005. His abstract paintings play with the notion of sound and silence, blending colors and forms in powerful ways.

Art Style: Abstract painting with an emphasis on movement and sound.

Importance: Showcases a major international artist and provides insight into the world of abstract expressionism.

Material World: Transcending the Object in Collage and Assemblage (Now – May 4, 2025)
This exhibition explores the transformative use of everyday materials in the making of art. Collage and assemblage artists often take discarded materials or mundane objects and elevate them into works of art, questioning the nature of what art can be.

Focus: The use of mixed media to create complex, layered visual stories.

Artists: The exhibition includes works by local and national artists who are known for their innovative use of materials.

Relationships: A Love for Collecting (Jan 25 – May 4, 2025)
A celebration of the collection of Dr. James Cottrell and Mr. Joseph Lovett, featuring over 500 works donated to the museum. This exhibit showcases their personal collection and highlights the museum’s ongoing effort to cultivate a diverse and rich collection.

Art: Works span from American realism to contemporary art.

2. Permanent Collections

American Art: This collection spans from the 19th to the 20th century, featuring iconic works of American artists like Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran, and others.

Contemporary Art: The museum has a strong focus on contemporary art, with rotating exhibitions that explore the works of living artists.

African Art: The museum also features African art, including traditional sculptures and textiles.

Florida Art: Focusing on the visual legacy of Florida, this collection celebrates the work of artists from the state.

📅 Hours of Operation

Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Closed on Mondays and major holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the Day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.

Extended Hours

The museum stays open later on the third Thursday of each month for “Access for All at OMA” from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., offering free admission and special programs.

💰 Admission Fees

Adults: $20

Seniors (60+): $12

Students: $10 (with valid student ID)

Children (6–17): $8

Children under 5: Free

Active-Duty Military and Veterans: Free (with valid ID)

Museums for All: $3 (with valid SNAP EBT card)

Family Bundle: $45 (includes 2 adults and up to 3 children)

Bank of America/Merrill Lynch "Museums on Us" Program: Free admission on the first full weekend of each month for cardholders.

🏛️ Special Programs & Events

OMA After Hours (Third Thursdays): This monthly program is designed to engage the community with extended hours, live performances, local food, drinks, and interactive art-making activities. It's a great opportunity for both art enthusiasts and newcomers to experience the museum in a social setting.

Art Education Programs: The museum offers educational programs for all ages, including:

Workshops: Various workshops designed to foster creativity and art-making.

Family and Children’s Programs: Hands-on art-making and storytelling for younger visitors.

Artist Talks and Lectures: Periodic lectures and discussions by artists and art historians.

Art in the Park: The museum hosts outdoor art events at Loch Haven Park, which are often free and open to the public, featuring installations, performances, and more.

School and Group Tours: Special tours can be arranged for schools and groups, focusing on specific exhibitions, art history, or creative workshops.

🌿 Museum Location and Facilities

Parking: There is free parking available in the museum’s lot, with additional parking in the surrounding area. The museum is located within Loch Haven Park, a green space that includes the Orlando Science Center, the Mennello Museum of American Art, and the Orlando Repertory Theater. It's a lively cultural district perfect for a day of exploring.

Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible to people with disabilities, and complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also accessible restrooms and parking spaces available near the entrance.

Gift Shop: The museum features a gift shop that sells unique items, from art books and jewelry to local handmade crafts and artwork inspired by the exhibitions.

Café: While there is no café within the museum, there are a number of nearby dining options in Loch Haven Park and throughout the Winter Park and Mills 50 districts. These neighborhoods are filled with great eateries, cafes, and food trucks.

🎨 Why Visit the Orlando Museum of Art?

The Orlando Museum of Art is a great place to experience a variety of artistic expressions, from traditional American works to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. Whether you're a local resident, a tourist, or an art lover, the museum offers something for everyone. The rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community involvement make OMA a dynamic part of Orlando's cultural scene.

Whether you're looking to explore thought-provoking art, enjoy a quiet afternoon, or participate in community events, the Orlando Museum of Art provides a welcoming space for creativity and inspiration.