The Tale of Albin Polasek and the Birth of His Museum
The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens is a historic site that has been a cornerstone of Winter Park, Florida, since its inception in 1961.
The museum was established to house the extensive art collection of Albin Polasek, a renowned Czech-American sculptor whose influence on American representational sculpture is still felt today.
Born in the small town of Moravia in 1879, Polasek’s journey to becoming an acclaimed sculptor began when he immigrated to the United States in 1901.
Initially working as a wood carver, Polasek’s undeniable talent soon led him to pursue formal education at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia. His artistic prowess did not go unnoticed, and he was later accepted into the prestigious American Academy in Rome.
Polasek’s career flourished, and he was appointed head of the Department of Sculpture at the Art Institute of Chicago, a position he held for 27 years. In 1950, Polasek decided to retire to Winter Park, Florida.
Here, he transformed his Mediterranean-style retirement home and studio into a museum, providing a home for his extensive collection of sculptures and other works of art.
Today, the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens is a nonprofit organization. The Albin Polasek Foundation oversees the museum and gardens’ preservation, maintenance, and operation. The foundation is funded by donations and memberships, ensuring that Polasek’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
The Museum’s Collection: A Testament to Polasek’s Artistic Journey
The museum’s collection primarily focuses on American symbolic sculpture, with Polasek’s works being the main attraction. The permanent collection boasts approximately 200 pieces, including works by Polasek and his first wife, Ruth Sherwood.
The collection also includes antiquities from Polasek’s collection, providing a glimpse into the artistic influences that shaped his work.
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum hosts changing exhibitions featuring local artists. These exhibitions provide a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work, contributing to the vibrant art scene in Winter Park.
The Gardens: A Fusion of Nature and Art
The museum’s gardens are a spectacle in their own right. These meticulously maintained spaces offer a serene environment where nature and art intertwine.
The museum’s property invites exploration, with two aquatic gardens, a dedicated butterfly garden, a collection of cycads lining the museum’s main driveway, and a variety of individual container gardens sprinkled across the grounds.
The gardens also house several of Polasek’s outdoor sculptures, allowing visitors to experience his work in a natural setting. Each of these spaces offers a unique perspective on Polasek’s art, providing a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Capen-Showalter House: A Historic Rescue and Restoration
One of the most intriguing aspects of the museum is the Capen-Showalter House. Initially slated for demolition in 2013, the historic home was saved by the combined efforts of the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens, the Friends of Casa Feliz, the Winter Park History Museum, and community supporters.
After raising $450,000, the house was cut into two halves and floated across Lake Osceola to its new location at the Polasek Museum. The house was then meticulously restored and now serves as a space for museum offices, exhibits, artwork, workshops, meetings, and special events.
This remarkable rescue and restoration project underscores the community’s commitment to preserving its historic landmarks.
Events and Programs: Fostering Community Engagement
The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens is more than just a museum; it’s a vibrant community hub. The museum hosts the annual Winter Park Paint Out, a week-long event where artists create works throughout the streets of Winter Park.
Upon completion, these artworks find their home in the museum’s ‘Wet Room’ gallery, where they are made available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the museum’s operations.
In addition to the Winter Park Paint Out, the museum offers daily tours of the permanent collection and the Capen-Showalter House. These tours provide an in-depth look at the museum’s treasures, offering insights into Polasek’s life, his artistic process, and the history of the Capen-Showalter House.
The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens Today
Today, the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens remain a beacon of art and culture in Winter Park. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Albin Polasek, inspiring visitors with its rich collection of art and its tranquil gardens.
The museum’s recognition in the Florida Artists Hall of Fame and the National Trust for Historic Preservation underscores its significant contribution to the art world and its impact on the local community.
As we look to the future, the museum continues to uphold its mission, enriching lives and inspiring generations to come through the power of art.
Conclusion
The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens is more than just a museum; it’s a journey through art and history. It’s a place where visitors can step back in time, immerse themselves in the world of Albin Polasek, and be inspired by the power of art.
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