If you’re the kind of person who takes pleasure in exploring the crossroads of history and art, then the Wolfsonian-FIU is the perfect destination for you. Nestled in the heart of South Beach, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the power and impact that art has on our society’s ever-changing political and cultural environment. This grand destination is a delightful experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of art, design, and history.
But before we dive into the depths of the Wolfsonian-Florida International University and everything it has to offer, let’s first establish what this institution is all about.
What is the Wolfsonian-FIU?
The Wolfsonian-FIU is a museum and research center that primarily focuses on the decorative arts, design, and propaganda of the 1885-1945 era. Founded in 1986 by Mitchell Micky Wolfson Jr., this institution has since been dedicated to exploring the intersections of design and society during the past century. The museum collection comprises over 180,000 objects that span across a wide range of media, including furniture, industrial design, textiles, paintings, and films.
The museum is a part of Florida International University and is located on Washington Avenue, in the heart of Miami Beach’s Art Deco district. The Wolfsonian-FIU is renowned for its educational programs, collections, traveling exhibitions, and research initiatives, thus cementing its place as one of the premier cultural institutions in Miami.
Admission & Hours
If you’re planning to visit the Wolfsonian, then you’ll be happy to know that the museum is open from Thursday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. As for the admission fee, general admission costs $12, while seniors, students, and children under twelve can visit the museum at a discounted price of $8. The Wolfsonian-Florida International University also offers free admission every Friday evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you’re an art enthusiast, then you can also become a member of the museum and enjoy a host of exclusive benefits such as free admission and exhibition previews.
The Exhibitions
One of the highlights of the Wolfsonian-FIU is its outstanding collection of exhibitions that showcase a wide range of designs from the past century. These exhibitions are known for their thematic displays that give visitors an in-depth look at how different designs from this era have impacted our society.
One of the current exhibitions is called Deco: Luxury to Mass Market, which focuses on how the Art Deco style transitioned from being a symbol of luxury to a mass-market aesthetic between the two world wars. This exhibition showcases the glamorous, high-style designs of the 1920s, juxtaposed with the streamlined forms and materials of the 1930s. Another exhibition is named Art and Design in the Modern Age: Selections from The Wolfsonian Collection and features 500 works from the museum’s vast collection. This exhibition provides an overview of the museum’s holdings and explores how art and design have historically produced objects with explicitly social purposes.
The Museum Shop
The Wolfsonian gift shop is one of the most unique aspects of the museum. Not only does it offer an extensive selection of books, postcards, and posters from the museum’s collection, but it also features a range of objects designed by contemporary artists inspired by the museum’s collection. This shop is an ideal place to purchase unique gifts for your loved ones that offer a distinct vibe and touch of history.
The Research Center
Apart from its vast collection of exhibitions, the Wolfsonian-FIU is also a prominent research center. Its library and archives house over 180,000 items that range from rare books and manuscripts to films and ephemera. The Research Center offers scholars, students, and the public an opportunity to access the museum’s collection to conduct research, publish papers, and create exhibitions. It also provides access to online catalogs, databases, and digital collections that allow visitors to explore the museum’s holdings from the comfort of their homes.
The Library
The Wolfsonian-Florida International University’s Library is home to over 50,000 books that primarily focus on design, the decorative arts, and material culture. The Library also houses an extensive collection of exhibition catalogs, auction catalogs, and rare books that span the past century. If you’re a history and design lover, then the Library is a must-visit location that provides a wealth of information on the subject.
The Education Programs
The Wolfsonian offers a host of educational programs for students, teachers, and families that are designed to engage visitors with the museum’s collections and exhibitions. These programs include guided tours, workshops, family days, lectures, and teacher professional development that bring art and design into classroom curriculums. These programs also provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the museum’s collection in a more interactive and immersive way.
The Venue
Apart from being a museum and research center, the Wolfsonian-FIU is also a venue for hosting events. The Art Deco-style building features three floors of exhibition space that can accommodate up to 250 guests for cocktail receptions, private dinners, and corporate events. The museum also has a beautiful courtyard that can be used for outdoor events such as wedding ceremonies and receptions. If you’re looking for a unique venue that offers a blend of history, art, and design for your next event, then the Wolfsonian is an ideal place for you.
In conclusion, the Wolfsonian is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the intersections of art, design, and history. This museum offers a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, and research initiatives that make it one of the most prominent cultural institutions in Miami. So, next time you’re in the mood for an immersive and interactive experience, head over to the Wolfsonian-Florida International University and discover the power of design through the lenses of history and culture.
