Welcome to The Ringling, the official state art museum of Florida, a treasure trove of art, architecture, and circus history nestled in beautiful Sarasota. This 66-acre estate, established in 1927 as the legacy of John and Mable Ringling, offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
A Glimpse into History
John Ringling, one of the famous Ringling Brothers, and his wife Mable, began acquiring land in Sarasota in 1911. They envisioned a winter retreat and a place to showcase their growing collection of European art. In 1927, they made Sarasota the winter headquarters for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. That same year, John commissioned the construction of the Ringling Art Museum to share his impressive art collection with the public.
The museum officially opened its doors in 1931 and has since become a vital cultural institution in Florida. In 2000, Florida State University assumed governance of the museum, ensuring its continued growth and preservation.
Explore the Museum
The Ringling Museum of Art boasts 21 galleries filled with an impressive collection of European paintings, Cypriot antiquities, and Asian, American, and contemporary art. With over 10,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and decorative arts, the museum offers a journey through art history.
Highlights include:
- 16th-20th Century European Paintings: Admire masterpieces from renowned artists, including Peter Paul Rubens.
- The Cesnola Collection: Explore ancient Cypriot art acquired by John Ringling from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- The Center for Asian Art: Discover Asian art within a building with a facade reminiscent of the Ca’ d’Zan mansion’s ceramic detailing.
- Sculptures: Walk through the courtyard with a life-size replica of Michelangelo’s David.
Beyond the Museum Walls
The Ringling estate offers much more than just the art museum:
Circus Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of the circus with dazzling costumes, parade wagons, and the Howard Bros. Circus Model, a miniature replica of a circus performance.
Bayfront Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful Bayfront Gardens, a living work of art featuring Mable’s Rose Garden, the whimsical Dwarf Garden, and majestic Banyan trees.
Historic Asolo Theater: Experience a performance in this intimate and historic theater, a gem of Sarasota’s cultural scene.
Surrounding Areas
While visiting The Ringling, explore other nearby attractions:
Ca’ d’Zan: Step back in time as you tour the Ringlings’ opulent Venetian Gothic-style mansion, a testament to the American Dream of the Roaring Twenties.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota: Discover a lush oasis of tropical plants and stunning bayfront views.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Get up close with marine life and learn about ocean conservation.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens: Experience a classic Florida attraction with tropical plants, exotic birds, and entertaining animal shows.
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