Discovering the Hidden Gems of Miami's Art Scene

Miami, Florida is a city known for its vibrant art scene, with a plethora of galleries showcasing a diverse range of artwork from both local and international artists. While many of these galleries feature rotating exhibitions, there are also several that have a permanent collection on display. These collections offer a glimpse into the history and evolution of art in Miami, making them a must-visit for any art enthusiast.

The Margulies Collection at the Warehouse

Art galleries in Miami, FL are not complete without a visit to The Margulies Collection at the Warehouse. This 45,000 square foot space is home to an impressive collection of contemporary and vintage photography, sculpture, and video installations.

The collection was started by Martin Z. Margulies in the 1970s and has since grown to include over 1,000 works by renowned artists such as Willem de Kooning, Anselm Kiefer, and Olafur Eliasson. The Margulies Collection is known for its focus on large-scale installations and immersive experiences. One of the most notable pieces in the collection is Richard Serra's Fernando Pessoa, a massive steel sculpture that visitors can walk through and experience from different perspectives. The collection also includes works by emerging artists, making it a great place to discover new talent.

The Rubell Museum

Founded by Don and Mera Rubell in 1993, the Rubell Museum is one of the largest privately-owned contemporary art collections in the world.

The museum recently moved to a new location in Miami's Allapattah neighborhood, where it now occupies a 100,000 square foot space that was formerly a DEA warehouse. The Rubell Museum's permanent collection features over 7,200 works by more than 1,000 artists, including pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Jeff Koons. The collection is constantly evolving, with new acquisitions and exhibitions added regularly. The museum also hosts special events and educational programs, making it a hub for the local art community.

The de la Cruz Collection

Located in Miami's Design District, the de la Cruz Collection is a private art collection that is open to the public. The collection was started by Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz in the early 1980s and has since grown to include over 2,000 works by contemporary artists from around the world. The de la Cruz Collection is known for its focus on emerging and mid-career artists, with a particular emphasis on Latin American and Miami-based artists.

The collection also includes works by established artists such as Cindy Sherman and Damien Hirst. In addition to its permanent collection, the de la Cruz Collection also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.

The Bass Museum of Art

Originally founded in 1964, the Bass Museum of Art is one of Miami's oldest cultural institutions. The museum recently underwent a major renovation and expansion, which was completed in 2017. The new space now includes over 50,000 square feet of exhibition space, making it one of the largest museums in Miami. The Bass Museum's permanent collection features over 3,000 works by artists from around the world, with a focus on contemporary art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photography, and video installations.

One of the highlights of the collection is Le Corbusier's Cabanon, a small cabin designed by the famous architect that is now on permanent display at the museum.

The Wolfsonian-FIU

Located in the heart of Miami Beach, the Wolfsonian-FIU is a museum and research center that focuses on art and design from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum's permanent collection includes over 180,000 objects, including furniture, posters, and decorative arts. The Wolfsonian-FIU's collection is known for its emphasis on propaganda and political art from the early 20th century. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs that explore the intersection of art, design, and politics.

Conclusion

Miami's art galleries are not just about showcasing the latest trends and movements in the art world. They also offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural diversity through their permanent collections.

Whether you're a seasoned art collector or just looking to expand your knowledge of art, these galleries are a must-visit when in Miami.