Over a decade of planning culminated in this moment standing before the Rubell Museum DC. It is a space dedicated to contemporary art. The Rubell Museum DC is not just another museum. It is a vibrant testament to the vision of art collectors Mera and Don Rubell. They inaugurated this second location in Southwest D.C. in October 2022 after the opening of their first space in Miami in 1993.
The Rubell Museum DC distinguishes itself by offering free admission to D.C. residents. Inside, twelve galleries encompass 32000 square feet. You can also explore its terrace and bookstore. A wide selection of food and beverages are on offer. The $20 million renovation transformed what was once the historic Randall Junior High School into this modern art space.
In 2010, the Rubells acquired the Randall Junior High School site for $6.5 million. It was purchased from the Corcoran College of Art and Design. Today, the building showcases nearly 200 pieces from the Rubells’ impressive collection.
Over the past 50 years, the couple has amassed around 7400 works by over 1000 artists. Their knack for spotting talent early has propelled many artists to great success. Names such as Cecily Brown, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Jeff Koons are among those they championed.
Caitlin Berry, the inaugural director of the Rubell Museum DC, brings a wealth of experience to her role. Previously, she directed the Cody Gallery at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. Berry’s focus includes the Washington Color School, Mid-Century African American, and contemporary art.
The Rubell Museum DC aims to be a welcoming space that bridges the gap between the local arts scene and larger institutions. The Rubells seek out the best artists of our time. Bringing these visionary artists to Washington enriches the dialogue with local and international communities.
The museum is housed in a historic Georgian revival-style building. It originally opened in 1906 as Francis L. Cardozo Elementary. This was a public school serving the Black community of Southwest D.C. In 1927, it was re-established as Randall Junior High School.
The building served various uses from 1982 to 2004, including artist studios and a housing shelter. The adaptive reuse of the building preserves this landmark, now listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Beyer Blinder Belle, an architecture firm, designed the transformation. They preserved the school’s central building and east wing. The lower level displays local artists’ work. The east wing, formerly the school auditorium, now boasts a gallery space for larger art pieces. The museum’s new glass pavilion entrance features a bookstore and terrace.
The inaugural exhibition, “What’s Going On,” pays homage to Marvin Gaye. He is an alumnus of Randall Junior High School. The exhibition features over 190 works by 37 artists. Sylvia Snowden, a D.C.-based artist, also has a solo show here.
The Rubell Museum DC is more than just a museum. It’s a place for reflection on our changing world. Its programming responds to the city, the community, and the building itself. The Rubell Museum DC stands as a beacon of contemporary art. It enriches the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C.