Whether you live in the Tampa area or are just visiting, if you enjoy art, there are several museums and galleries worth checking out. Let’s explore some of these art scene hot spots and what they have to offer.
Cracker Country
Cracker Country combines art and historical artifacts to tell the story of the settlers who arrived in Florida in the late 1800s. The museum has a collection of buildings constructed between 1870 and 1912. These buildings include the Terry Store, Okahumpka Train Depot, and Carlton House. The homes feature furnishings similar to the ones owned by the original inhabitants. The Governors Inn building houses the first complete collection of oil portraits of Florida’s governors. In the Church building, you’ll find a Packard Reed Organ from the early 1900s. During your visit, you can observe historically dressed educators create arts and crafts.
The Dali Museum
The Dali Museum is home to the most extensive collection of Salvador Dali’s works outside of Europe. Highlights of the 2,400-piece collection include the surrealist’s famous Lobster Phone sculpture and paintings such as “Catalan Bread” and “Landscape of Port Lligat.” The museum is also home to several of Dali’s book illustrations, prints, and personal photographs.
The Dali Museum’s 7,000-volume library is an excellent resource for students and scholars. While visiting the museum, you don’t want to miss out on exploring the AvantGarden, situated on the Tampa Bay waterfront. This peaceful oasis features a grotto, a stunning collection of orchids, and olive trees. Throughout the year, the museum hosts yoga classes, opera performances, and film presentations.
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) is dedicated to the preservation of historical and contemporary photographs while presenting them in a way that is relevant to modern life. The museum’s collection includes works from such renowned photographers as Cindy Sherman, Olivia Parker, and Blake Yeager. If you’re interested in honing your photography skills, FMoPA offers classes ranging in subjects from basic photography to mastering social media.
Henry B. Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, is a Moorish-inspired architectural wonder. Original furnishings and artifacts allow you to experience the luxury and history of the 1891 hotel. The museum also houses the Asian art collection that once belonged to the Plant family. The gardens, overlooking Tampa Bay, feature flowering plants, tropical trees, and unique statues. A visit to the Plant Museum is a unique glimpse into the beginnings of Florida’s tourism industry.
Morean Arts Center
Founded to provide arts education to the Tampa Bay Community, the Morean Arts Center also houses stunning works of art from renowned local and international artists. An impressive Dale Chihuly collection features “Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier,” a piece created specifically for the Center. The Morean Center for Clay is the southeast’s largest working pottery studio and features a collection of historical and contemporary pieces.
These are just some of the hottest spots for art in the Tampa area. No matter which one you visit, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Image via Pixabay.com
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