Orlando Museum of Art: The Joy of Gorgeous Paintings
Orlando is arguably the hub of the Sunshine State, bustling with magical theme parks, delicious eateries, and various sideshow attractions. Thankfully, at the Orlando Museum of Art, you can take a break and escape into a relaxing world of soothing brushstrokes and beautifully framed azure skies.
Although one of Orlando’s quieter attractions, the art museum is tailored to the soul rather than for suspense. You’re sure to come away feeling refreshed and inspired. It’s kind of the same feeling you get after watching an episode of Bob Ross’s The Joy of Painting.
What a happy little way to spend the afternoon!
Orlando Museum of Art’s Breathtaking Collections
When you step into the art museum, you’ll notice that it’s divided into several galleries. Each one holds the artwork of a different time period or nation. These strategic groupings give the individual paintings context in which to be appreciated. Then, when viewed as a whole, each gallery can tell a story of shared experiences.
Whether you’re searching for deeper meaning or just taking in the pretty colors as you go, strolling through the galleries is always a pleasant pastime! If you’re visiting on your own it can be a time of quiet reflection, and if you’re with friends, the artwork might inspire some truly colorful conversations!
The American Art Collection
The Orlando Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of classic American artwork, stretching from the Colonial period to the 1960s. (There’s also a sub-collection of Contemporary American Graphics, which goes beyond the 60s with prints by famous pop artists like Andy Warhol.)
A walk through this gallery is a walk through American history. Wannabe time travelers, rejoice!
There’s an array of subjects and styles, from impressionist landscapes to realistic portraits, and even some abstract works. A few pieces I’d personally recommend keeping an eye out for are Nathan Hale and Lily Pond.
Lily Pond is a gorgeous impressionist painting by Frank Benson and an apparent homage to the famous lily paintings of Claude Monet. Painted in 1923, these lily pads still spring to life in vibrant color nearly a century later.
Nathan Hale is a bronze sculpture by Frederick MacMonnies and depicts one of our nation’s legendary heroes. Nathan Hale was a patriot spy who, after being captured, is said to have uttered these words at the gallows: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”1 MacMonnies’ sculpture captures this brave yet humble attitude in striking, lifelike realism. A life-sized version of this sculpture stands in New York City Hall Park today.2
The Art of Ancient Americas Collection
(Photo: Rain0975 via Flickr)
The Orlando Museum of Art houses over 900 pieces of art whose identity also doubles as artifacts. Pottery, carved stone, and intricately woven textiles shed light on the societies of long ago, providing pieces to the puzzle of the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas.
That these pieces have remained intact since the 1500s or earlier is, in itself, absolutely astonishing. The craftsmanship required to create the sculptures and carvings, and done without any of our modern tools, is yet another reason for awe.
The ancient past gains new life in this astoundingly comprehensive gallery, but be forewarned, it still might leave you with more questions than answers!
The African Art Collection
The art museum’s collection of African artwork makes up one of the most unique galleries. Rather than being filled with traditional oil paintings and marble statues, this gallery is full of objects from everyday life – dolls, skirts, baskets, and aprons.
However, don’t let the “ordinary” nature of the objects fool you. Each one tells a story and was incredibly symbolic for the person who once wore it or used it. The museum explains, “These pieces conveyed a special meaning about the owner.”3 Headdresses conveyed rank or power, and a doll could communicate a girl’s availability for marriage. It’s a bit like wearing a shirt with Mickey Mouse – it communicates the message “I love Disney!” to everyone that sees you. But of course, the messages silently spoken by these pieces are a little deeper.
What will they say to you?
The Contemporary Art Collection
If you love modern art, then this part of the Orlando Museum of Art is for you!
(Photo: Rain0975 via Flickr)
Nothing older than 1945 is allowed in this area, and some pieces are brand new, as the art museum continually purchases work from living artists. Sculptures and paintings in this area tend toward the extreme – whether it be in color, style, shape, size, or medium.
For example, one of the wildest pieces in this gallery is 2011 costume/sculpture, Soundsuit. This “suit” is constructed from ceramic birds, beads, recycled metal, brightly crocheted fabric, and even a gramophone. You can easily imagine the jingly-jangly sound it would make were it to be worn! Mixed-media sculptor, Nick Cave, explained that the purpose of his piece is to spark imagination so people can dream about what they really want to do with their lives.4
Orlando Museum of Art’s Special Exhibitions
While the various collections are permanent or on long-term loan to the art museum, there are also special, limited-time exhibitions continually cycling through. This means no two visits to the art museum will ever be the same!
Upcoming exhibitions that will be in place starting September 25th include:
- Cathedrals of Florida: Masterworks by Clyde Butcher
Butcher has captured some of Florida’s most wild landscapes in stark, sweeping, and beautiful black and white. Internationally acclaimed and championing our state’s natural heritage, you don’t want to miss a walkthrough of this collection. - Treasures from the Museum & Gallery at Bob Jones University: Five Centuries of Old Master Painting
This collection features over 60 phenomenal works from the 14th to 19th century, with a focus in superb Italian Baroque paintings.
- Luces y Sombras: Mexican Photography from the Bank of America Collection
Experience Mexico’s modern history through the medium of photography. With 28 master photographers capturing key moments since the 1930s, this collection is truly a cultural marvel. - Connoisseurship & Collecting: Masterworks of European Painting from the Muscarelle Museum of Art
This amazing collection is extremely varied, with pieces dating from the 16th to 20th century. You’ll likely recognize the names of the featured masters – Rembrandt, Raphael, and Paul Cézanne are just a few!
The Orlando Museum of Art makes for an excellent day trip, and with such a vast collection and rotating exhibitions, it’s a great spot to visit again and again!
Have you been to the OMA? What collection or piece of artwork did you enjoy most? Let us know in the comments below!
Interested in other attractions like the OMA? Check out the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens!
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