Did the Rollins Museum of Art always go by that name? No. The Rollins Museum of Art was originally called the Cornell Fine Arts Museum. It was renamed in 2021, marking a new chapter for the institution. The Rollins Museum of Art is located right here on the beautiful campus of Rollins College. It’s the only teaching museum in the entire Orlando area – a point of pride for both the college and the museum itself.
The museum boasts a collection of over 5,000 pieces, ranging from antiquities to contemporary art. You’ll see everything from ancient artifacts to rare old master paintings to a stunning array of prints, drawings, and photographs. The Rollins Museum of Art isn’t content to rest on its laurels. They always have temporary exhibitions rotating through, ensuring there’s always something fresh and exciting for visitors to experience.
Did you know that this museum actually traces its roots back to the early 20th century? A collection of portraits of significant college figures and artifacts focused on natural history were the first items to form part of what would become the museum’s collection. It wasn’t until the 1930s, spurred by gifts from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, that fine arts became a significant part of the collection.
Over the years, the Rollins Museum of Art has benefited from many generous donations. These gifts have enriched the collection and helped shape the museum into the cultural gem it is today. In 2013, a significant milestone was reached with the donation of The Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. This impressive collection features more than 230 pieces from established and emerging contemporary artists worldwide. The Rollins Museum of Art is a testament to the enduring power of art and a vibrant hub for art education and appreciation.