Q: Why is it so cold in the museum?
A: One of the main missions of any museum is to preserve its collections in perpetuity. There are several ways museums do this. First, it is critical to maintain constant temperature and humidity levels in the galleries and in storage. At The Cummer, we keep our spaces at 70 degrees and 50% humidity. These are standard levels set forth by experts in conservation and preservation, and help to mitigate deterioration, mold growth, pests, and other destructive conditions. Second, only experienced art handlers are permitted to move the art, and we only move art when it is truly necessary. We wear gloves so the oils and dirt from our skin do not damage the art. This is why guests aren’t allowed to touch! And finally, bright lights and UV rays are among some of the most destructive elements, so museums keep their lights at low levels to prevent further damage.
Now, think about what you have always wanted to ask about The Cummer. Post your questions in the comments section below and Holly will take her favorites and respond in future blog postings.
My boyfriend and I are coming to visit your museum on Wednesday 03-02-11! Do you recommend a restaurant in Riverside or Avondale for lunch? We live at the beach and don’t have a clue about coming across the ditch
Alli, I would recommend one of the restaurants in Avondale. My personal favorite is Biscotti’s, but there is also The Brick and Blue Fish. All three are great. The Avondale area is a historic district with old houses and little boutique shops and restaurants. I assume you will be coming up I-95 N, from the beaches. From the Museum, you will continue driving down Riverside Avenue (away from 95), until you get to King Street, just past St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Turn left on King, and at the next intersection, turn right onto St. Johns Avenue. You will follow St. Johns for a few blocks until you reach the shopping area. There will be shops on both sides of the road, and Biscotti’s is about the third shop on the left hand side. I highly recommend ordering the Bruschetta, it is the best I’ve had. If you are also looking for desert, I recommend walking down to the end of the strip, on the same side as Biscotti’s, to Let Them Eat Cake. They have fantastic cookies, gourmet cupcakes, and other goodies. I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.
How does one offer original personal art for showing at the Cummer