Rubell Museum of Miami: A Must-See Destination for Art Lovers

by | Aug 15, 2023 | Don't Miss Visiting | 0 comments

The Rubell Museum of Miami is a contemporary art museum located in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami, Florida. The museum is known for its impressive collection of contemporary art pieces from renowned artists. The Rubell Museum is a private museum that was opened to the public in 1993.

The museum’s collection includes works from over 100 artists, including Jeff Koons, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The Rubell Museum is a popular destination for art lovers and tourists visiting Miami. The museum’s unique architecture and stunning exhibits make it a must-visit attraction in the city.

Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations, which are displayed in spacious galleries. The Rubell Museum is also home to a garden, an outdoor café, and a restaurant, making it a perfect spot for a day out with family and friends. With its impressive collection and beautiful setting, the Rubell Museum is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Miami.

History of Rubell Museum

Founding

The Rubell Museum of Miami was founded in 1993 by Don and Mera Rubell. The couple began collecting art while living in New York City, setting aside money each month from Mera’s salary as a teacher while Don attended medical school. The museum was originally launched as the Rubell Family Collection and was located in a 45,000 square-foot space in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District.

Development Over the Years

Over the years, the museum’s collection grew to include over 7,000 works of art by more than 1,000 artists. In 2019, the museum relocated to a new 100,000 square-foot campus in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood and was renamed the Rubell Museum to emphasize its public mission and expand access for audiences.

The museum’s collection focuses exclusively on contemporary art and includes works by artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Yayoi Kusama. The Rubell family has a reputation for discovering emerging artists and has launched the careers of many now-prominent artists.

In addition to its collection, the museum hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and events throughout the year. The museum’s campus includes 40 galleries, a library, and a restaurant. The Rubell Museum is one of the largest privately-owned contemporary art museums in the world and is a must-visit destination for art lovers visiting Miami.

The Collection

The Rubell Museum in Miami houses one of the biggest private contemporary art collections in North America. The collection is owned by Don and Mera Rubell, who have been acquiring art since 1965. The collection has over 7,400 works by more than 1,000 artists.

Permanent Exhibits

The museum has a variety of permanent exhibits that showcase different styles and mediums of contemporary art. Some of the notable permanent exhibits include:

  • “28 Chinese” exhibit which features works by 28 contemporary Chinese artists.
  • “Beg, Borrow and Steal” exhibit which showcases works by American artists from the 1970s to the present.
  • “To Have and To Hold” exhibit which features works by female artists.

The permanent exhibits are regularly updated to keep the collection fresh and engaging for visitors.

Special Exhibits

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Rubell Museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits often feature works by emerging artists or explore specific themes. Some of the recent special exhibits include:

  • “New Shamans/Novos Xamãs: Brazilian Artists” which showcases works by contemporary Brazilian artists.
  • “30 Americans” exhibit which features works by African American artists from the Rubell collection.
  • “Superflex: We Are All in the Same Boat” exhibit which explores issues related to climate change.

The special exhibits are a great way to experience new and exciting works of contemporary art.

Architecture and Design

The Rubell Museum of Miami is a 100,000-square-foot contemporary art museum located in the Allapattah district of Miami. The museum was designed by the renowned architect Annabelle Selldorf, who transformed six industrial structures into a cohesive whole.

The museum’s exterior is a simple, modernist design, with a white facade and large windows that allow natural light to flood the galleries. The interior of the museum is equally impressive, featuring 40 galleries, event spaces, and a garden.

Selldorf’s design for the Rubell Museum emphasizes the importance of natural light and open spaces. The galleries are spacious and uncluttered, allowing visitors to focus on the art. The museum’s garden, which is open to the public, provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

Inside the museum, visitors will find a range of art from contemporary masters to emerging artists. The Rubell collection includes works by Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and many others. The museum also features rotating exhibitions, which showcase the work of up-and-coming artists.

Overall, the Rubell Museum of Miami is a stunning example of contemporary architecture and design. Selldorf’s careful attention to detail and emphasis on natural light and open spaces make the museum a must-visit destination for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Visiting the Museum

Visiting the Rubell Museum in Miami is a must-do for art lovers. The museum has a vast collection of contemporary art and is known for showcasing works from emerging artists. The museum is located in Allapattah, Miami, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Location and Hours

The Rubell Museum is located at 1100 NW 23 ST, Miami, FL 33127. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, the museum is open from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, the museum is open from 11:30 am to 7:30 pm. On Sundays, the museum is open from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Admission Details

Admission to the Rubell Museum is affordable, with different rates for different age groups. Adults can enter the museum for $15, while seniors (65+ with ID) and students (with ID) can enter for $12. Youths between the ages of 7 and 18 can enter for $10. Members of the Rubell Museum can enter for free, and children under the age of 6 can also enter for free. US Military and Veterans, along with up to three guests, can also enter for free.

Tours and Events

The Rubell Museum offers guided tours for visitors, which are conducted by experienced guides. These tours provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the art collection and the artists behind the works. The museum also hosts various events, including talks, workshops, and performances, which are open to the public. Visitors can check the museum’s website for more information on upcoming events.

Overall, visiting the Rubell Museum is an enriching experience that should not be missed. With its impressive collection of contemporary art and affordable admission rates, the museum is an excellent destination for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Community Involvement

The Rubell Museum of Miami is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is committed to engaging with the local community through a variety of programs and initiatives. The museum believes that art has the power to bring people together, foster creativity, and inspire positive change. As such, it has developed a number of educational programs and outreach initiatives that are designed to promote community involvement and engagement.

Educational Programs

The Rubell Museum offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs are designed to help visitors better understand contemporary art and its role in society. The museum’s educational programs include:

  • Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours of its exhibitions, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the artwork on display. These tours are led by knowledgeable docents who are able to answer questions and provide additional context.
  • Workshops: The museum offers workshops for both children and adults that are designed to help participants develop their artistic skills and creativity. These workshops cover a range of topics, from drawing and painting to sculpture and mixed media.
  • School Programs: The museum offers a range of programs for schools, including guided tours, workshops, and classroom resources. These programs are designed to help students better understand contemporary art and its role in society.

Outreach Initiatives

The Rubell Museum is committed to reaching out to the local community and engaging with people who might not otherwise have access to contemporary art. The museum’s outreach initiatives include:

  • Community Partnerships: The museum has developed partnerships with a number of local organizations, including schools, community centers, and non-profits. These partnerships help to bring the museum’s programs and exhibitions to a wider audience.
  • Free Admission: The museum offers free admission to all visitors on the first Saturday of every month. This initiative is designed to make contemporary art more accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to afford it.
  • Public Art Projects: The museum has developed a number of public art projects that are designed to engage with the local community. These projects include murals, installations, and sculptures that are located throughout the city.

Overall, the Rubell Museum is committed to promoting community involvement and engagement through its educational programs and outreach initiatives. By working with local organizations and offering free admission, the museum is able to make contemporary art more accessible to a wider audience.

Future Plans

The Rubell Museum of Miami has ambitious plans for the future. In 2022-23, the museum will host several exhibitions, including Alexandre Diop’s “Jooba Jubba, l’Art du Defi, the Art of Challenge.” Visitors can engage with their community by participating in events and sharing their experiences.

The Rubell family, who run the museum, recently purchased an $11 million property in Allapattah to expand their art and cultural space portfolio. This purchase demonstrates their commitment to the local community and their desire to provide more opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts.

In addition to expanding their physical space, the Rubell Museum is also committed to expanding their digital presence. They have launched a new website that provides virtual tours of their exhibitions and allows visitors to browse their collection online. This digital initiative will help the museum reach a wider audience and make their collection more accessible to people around the world.

The Rubell Museum is also committed to supporting emerging artists. They offer a residency program that provides artists with a studio space and access to the museum’s collection. This program allows artists to experiment and create new work in a supportive environment.

Overall, the Rubell Museum of Miami has exciting plans for the future. With their commitment to the local community, digital initiatives, and support for emerging artists, they are sure to continue to be a leading institution in the contemporary art world.