Only art is of concern at Mennello, and that’s the way it should be. So go, feel relaxed; by the time you’ve just almost made it to the door I promise the feeling will have already filled you.
By Patrick Jude
Central Florida is filled with art, from UF’s continuously profound galleries, to Tampa’s famous testament to Surrealist great, Dali. Just before the Orlando Museum of Art, on Princeton in the heart of Orlando’s arts district, however, lays Mennello, a hidden gem, which is always gifted with shade from a massive and welcoming tree.
This tree, and the entire beauty of the surrounding grounds, are all very much a part of Mennello’s relaxed atmosphere.
The Mennello Museum of American Art is primarily a Folk Art museum. What exactly is a Folk Art museum though? Folk Art is the celebration of community and culture, the reflection nameless commoners and the virtues that follow.
So does a Folk Artist have to be nameless, or otherwise relatively unknown? No, not at all, but sometimes it certainly is the case. Two of the greatest examples of Folk Artists, Jack Kerouac and Woody Guthrie, are vastly known.
The pieces at Mennello offer a tangible form of expression for the same themes common in both legends work, a life unrestricted and indelible earnestness.
Free from affectations, the museum is steadfast in maintaining its ideal of accessibility for budding minds. Any college student, and anyone under the age of 18 are admitted at the cost of $1. Also offered are military and senior discounts.
Worst-case scenario, if you’re like this graduated schlup ineligible for discounts, you’re still in for a cool $5. Needless to say, their integrity is admirable and a service to our community.
Mennello’s current highlight exhibit is honest to the communal tradition of Folk Art. Our Orlando, running until June 18th, features art solely manifested by local artists.
Katrina Constantine, Hillery Powers, Chris Tobar Rodriguez, Andrew Spear and Rhett Withey have all contributed to the exhibit. Rich in medium diversity, the exhibit is well rounded to say the least.
The platforms for the pieces are wide ranging, from digital art to photography, colored pencils and more, the collection portrays the validity of diversity as a staple in the world of Folk Art.
Also highlighted this month are two massive structures by Pennsylvanian sculptor Alice Aycock. The Twin Vortexes, as they are called, are on tour from Park Avenue…Manhattan! The Twin Vortexes are two parts of a seven part series, which started in the Big Apple.
It’s astounding that such wonderfully cumbersome, and magnanimous structures can be moved for all to see.
Often overlooked, this is my personal favorite as far as museums go. Don’t get too dressed up; don’t expect any hors d’oeuvres from elaborate restaurants.
Only art is of concern at Mennello, and that’s the way it should be. So go, feel relaxed; by the time you’ve just almost made it to the door I promise the feeling will have already filled you.
It’s a good time.
Born and raised in Orlando, Patrick Jude is a recent graduate of The University Of Central Florida. He holds a B.A. in English Literature as well as an A.A. in Jazz Performance. Jude enjoys performing and is an active musician in Central Florida. As a member of The Getbye he fills the most glorified role of any band…Bass.
