The Rubell Museum stands as one of the most significant private contemporary art collections in North America, showcasing the visionary collecting of Don and Mera Rubell over more than five decades. Located in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood, this institution has become a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant art scene and a driving force in the contemporary art world.
Your partner for fine art services. Request a quote now.
ContactHistory and Evolution
The Rubell Museum’s story began in 1965 when Don and Mera Rubell started collecting art in New York City. What started as a passion project soon grew into one of the most comprehensive and influential private art collections in the world. In 1993, the Rubells opened their collection to the public as the Rubell Family Collection in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, pioneering a new model for private collections as public resources.
In December 2019, the museum relocated to a vastly expanded campus in Allapattah, rebranding as the Rubell Museum to emphasize its public mission. This move marked a new chapter in the institution’s history, providing even greater access to its remarkable collection.
The Collection
The Rubell Museum houses over 7,400 works by more than 1,000 artists, making it one of the largest private contemporary art collections in North America. The collection is distinguished by its unprecedented range and depth, featuring works by both established and emerging artists from around the globe.
Key aspects of the collection include:
- Strong holdings of African American, Latin American, and Asian artists
- Early works by artists who later became internationally renowned
- A focus on cutting-edge contemporary art
Some notable artists represented in the collection include Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Kehinde Wiley, among many others.
Exhibition Program
The Rubell Museum is known for its dynamic exhibition program, often drawing entirely from its own holdings. The museum has organized over 50 exhibitions, many of which have traveled to other institutions nationally and internationally. Some notable exhibitions include:
- “30 Americans” – A landmark show focusing on African American artists
- “No Man’s Land” – An exhibition exploring contemporary women artists
- “Yayoi Kusama” – A comprehensive look at the Japanese artist’s work
Architecture and Facilities
The current Rubell Museum, designed by Selldorf Architects, transformed six former industrial buildings into a cohesive, state-of-the-art museum complex. The space includes:
- 36 galleries for exhibiting art
- A flexible performance space
- An extensive research library
- A bookstore
- A courtyard garden featuring native Florida plants
Impact on Miami’s Art Scene
The Rubell Museum has played a pivotal role in Miami’s emergence as a global art destination. The Rubells were instrumental in bringing Art Basel to Miami Beach, which has become one of the world’s premier art fairs. Their early investment in the Wynwood neighborhood helped transform it into a thriving arts district.
Educational Initiatives
Beyond exhibitions, the Rubell Museum is committed to education and public engagement. The institution offers:
- Guided tours
- Artist talks and lectures
- Educational programs for schools and universities
- A research library open to scholars and art enthusiasts
Looking Forward
As the Rubell Museum continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its core mission of sharing contemporary art with the public and supporting artists at all stages of their careers. With its vast collection, innovative exhibition program, and commitment to public engagement, the Rubell Museum continues to shape the landscape of contemporary art in Miami and beyond.
The Rubell Museum stands as a testament to the power of passionate collecting and the importance of making private collections accessible to the public. It has become not just a must-visit destination for art lovers in Miami, but a significant institution in the global contemporary art world.
Citations: [1] http://rubellmuseum.org [2] http://dc.rubellmuseum.org [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubell_Museum [4] https://rubellmuseum.org/about-us/founders [5] https://rubellmuseum.org/miami/about-rubell-museum-miami [6] https://rubellmuseum.org/about-us [7] https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/l/arts-and-culture/rubell-museum/2031 [8] https://news.artnet.com/art-world/rubell-effect-miami-couple-brought-midas-touch-generations-young-artists-1720494