The Rubell Museum, located in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida, is a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts. The museum is home to an extensive collection of over 7,200 artworks from more than 1,000 artists, making it one of the largest privately-owned contemporary art museums in the world.
The museum was founded in 1964 by Don and Mera Rubell, who have been avid collectors of contemporary art for over 50 years. Their passion for art led them to amass a vast collection of works by both established and emerging artists, which they initially displayed in their private residences. In 1993, they opened the museum to the public to share their love of art with the world.
The Rubell Museum's collection is an eclectic mix of mediums and styles, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography and installation art. The museum's vast collection includes works by some of the most significant contemporary artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Damien Hirst, and Keith Haring, to name a few.
One of the standout features of the Rubell Museum is its commitment to showcasing emerging artists. The museum has a dedicated program called the Rubell Museum Emerging Artist Fellowship, which provides support and resources to artists who are in the early stages of their careers. The program includes studio visits, mentorship, and a solo exhibition at the museum, providing invaluable exposure and opportunities for these artists.
The museum itself is housed in a former DEA warehouse, which was transformed into a stunning 100,000-square-foot space that is both vast and intimate. The museum's architecture is minimalist and clean, allowing the artwork to take centre stage. The museum's layout is designed to lead visitors on a journey through the various galleries, providing a curated experience that is both thought-provoking and inspiring.
In addition to its extensive collection and commitment to emerging artists, the Rubell Museum also hosts a range of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often focus on a particular theme or artist and provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience. Recent exhibitions have included "30 Americans," which explored the work of African American artists, and "High Anxiety," which showcased works that explore the theme of anxiety and uncertainty.
The Rubell Museum is not only a cultural hub for the local community, but it has also become a destination for art enthusiasts from around the world. Its impressive collection, commitment to emerging artists, and innovative exhibitions make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary art.
Overall, the Rubell Museum is a testament to the power of collecting and the impact that art can have on individuals and communities. It is a remarkable achievement for Don and Mera Rubell and a gift to the city of Miami and the broader art world. Whether you are a seasoned art lover or a curious newcomer, the Rubell Museum is an experience not to be missed.
5 Examples:
- "Miami's Rubell Family Collection: Contemporary Art Masterpieces" (The Culture Concept Circle, June 2012)
- "Rubell Museum: How a family of art collectors turned a DEA warehouse into a must-visit museum" (CNN, December 2019)
- "Rubell Museum Miami Announces New Location and Expansion Plans" (ArtfixDaily, September 2020)
- "Rubell Museum in Miami Reopens After $12 Million Renovation" (Artforum, December 2020)
- "Rubell Museum Offers an Immersive Art Experience in Miami's Up-and-Coming Allapattah Neighborhood" (Robb Report, February 2021)
