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The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is committed to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens and education. A permanent collection of nearly 5,000 works of art on a riverfront campus offers more than 95,000 annual visitors a truly unique experience on the First Coast. Nationally recognized education programs serve adults and children of all abilities.

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Looking Back to Look Forward: Part 9

Oct

28

The Cummer Gallery of Art, built on the site of the home of Arthur Gerrish Cummer and Ninah May Holden Cummer, was dedicated at a glittering reception held on November 10, 1961.

Opening night, November 10, 1961

One thousand guests attended, including Florida Governor Farris Bryant and Jacksonville Mayor Haydon Burns. Governor Bryant said that he “was moved to walk on tiptoes and whisper when confronting the magnificence of the museum.” He felt that “It is impossible to add to the luster, romance or significance…I know of no elevation of spirit in the history of Florida greater than that displayed here.” In the same vein. Mayor Bums added, “The people of Jacksonville have never received a gift comparable in generosity or beauty to the museum… a testament to the heritage of the past and representing the strength and character of those who were leaders of Jacksonville in the past.”

Guests enjoyed music by Gerson Yessin, pianist and members of the I Musici Society.

Opening night in the Museum lobby

The artwork displayed consisted of the works acquired by the Cummers, as well as three special exhibitions: a collection of 51 etchings by the Scottish-American artist James McBey, now part of the Museum’s permanent collection, a selection of French paintings on loan from a New York gallery, and an exhibition of American art on loan from the National Academy of Design.

Opening night in the galleries

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Director of Art Education

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