Archive For The “Historical Sites & Museums” Category
OMA Festival of Trees — Celebrating 36 Years!
The annual Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) is my go-to event to kick off the holiday season in Central Florida. For those who like to decorate early, it always occurs the week before Thanksgiving, giving the buyers an opportunity to display their creative finds for visiting family and friends while feasting on that fabulous fried turkey dinner.
Each year the Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees has a different theme. Gifts of the Season was the theme chosen for the 36th anniversary of this popular event. It is always presented by the Council of 101, a group of nearly 300 women who volunteer their time and talents to make this holiday tradition possible. They were founded in 1965 with a vision to further the cultural development and education of the visual arts in Central Florida. Their two main fundraisers, Festival of Trees in November and Antiques Show in February, provide much needed financial resources for the Orlando Museum of Art.
Upwards of 20,000 people visit the Festival of Trees each year! And since it began over three decades ago, more than $5 million dollars has been contributed, making it the major fundraiser for this popular Central Florida Art Museum.
How to Purchase a Festival of Trees Item
While strolling through the various venues at the Festival of Trees, you’ll notice that each item is accompanied by a sign like the one pictured above. The sign contains an item number, title of the piece, the name of the donor, name of the designer, and a selling price. When an item has been purchased, a red SOLD sticker will be placed on it. Payment for available items should be made at the sales desk in the Council of 101 Grand Gallery. The items may be picked up immediately after the close of the Festival on Sunday, and during the day on Monday. Arrangements for delivery can be made for the larger trees.
Deck the Halls at Orlando Museum of Art!
There are three main showcase areas for the Festival of Trees — Deck the Halls, Designer Trees and Vignettes, and Gingerbread Village. In the Deck the Halls area you’ll see stunning displays of unique wreaths and small tabletop trees. I love decorating for Christmas, so I’m always impressed by the level of ingenuity expressed here. Clever imagination and originality abound. A wreath is just a wreath, unless it was conceived by one of the inventive designers at Festival of Trees! They’re constantly coming up with innovative new ways of doing wreaths. Some of the resources and materials they use literally blow my mind. Check out a few of my favorites from Deck the Halls…
Designer Trees and Vignettes — Photo Tour
The one-of-a-kind trees, winterscapes, and vignettes offered in this section are truly brilliant. If you don’t come away inspired, you may want to check your pulse! Even if you choose not to purchase a tree, I guarantee your own creative juices will be flowing by the time you get home.
*TIP… Take lots of photos. Keep them in a digital album and refer back to them year after year. Use them as a starting point to create your own holiday masterpiece. Oftentimes you can improvise, using materials and color schemes more conducive to your own home decor, and achieve the same outstanding results.
Plan to linger in this area for a while. There’s usually Christmas music playing softly in the background — sometimes via live musicians or choirs. Allow the sights and sounds of the season to seep into your spirit. After all… it is the most wonderful time of the year!
Gingerbread Village at Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees
Your nose knows how to find this area! Just follow the sweet and spicy scent of gingerbread. The awesome aroma permeates an entire section of the Orlando Museum of Art. Sponsored by Macy’s, each gingerbread masterpiece is created by local culinary artists and available for purchase. Take a moment to notice the remarkable detail in each one. Here’s seven of my favorites from the Annual Festival of Trees…
Entertaining by Design Drawings at OMA Festival of Trees
One of my hubby’s favorite parts of the Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art is the opportunity to win a spectacular prize. Patrons of the Festival can purchase tickets for the drawings. They’re very reasonably priced at $1 each or 25 for $20. There’s a wide variety of donated items — things like Gift Baskets, Gift Certificates for Dinner, Design Consultation, Getaways, Progressive Wine Dinner, Spa Services, Cocktail Party for 20 People, Shopping Spree, Tablescapes, Designer Jewelry, and Decorated Trees. Choose the items that interest you and simply deposit a ticket in the container located by each item. Then, wait for your phone to ring after the close of the Festival of Trees! We’re still waiting… but hey, it’s for a great cause, right? Check out a few of the drawings from previous years…
Toyland Town and Santa Claus at OMA Festival of Trees
As with any other place that features fragile displays, great caution must be used if choosing to take young children to the Festival of Trees. But if you do, be sure to visit Toyland Town, a special area where children can do crafts, play games, and even join in a scavenger hunt. At select times Santa will be present to receive the wish list for all good little girls and boys! Then your little ones can shop-till-they-drop in the Toyland Shop which is filled with kiddie gifts and great stocking stuffers. (Mom and Dad can visit the Festival Boutique for unique grown-up gifts!)
I highly recommend the Reindeer Romp Children’s Party, a specially ticketed evening event that occurs mid-week during the nine day Festival of Trees. Entertainment for the kiddos includes things like Balloon Artists, Storytellers, Comedy Variety Artists, Crayola Experience, Face Painting, Sing-Alongs, StiltFun, Russian Ballet of Orlando, Photo Booth, and Santa Claus himself! It’s a wonderful holiday party for the entire family.
***Reindeer Romp information and tickets (November 18, 2022)
***Breakfast with Santa information and tickets (November 12 & 19, 2022)
Festival of Trees Special Events
Each year there are specially ticketed events happening at the Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees. The Festival opens with a Tree Lighting Reception followed by a Formal Gala that includes Food, Wine and Spirits, Entertainment, and a Silent Auction.
Additional information regarding admission pricing, parking, special event tickets, senior day, entertainment schedule, photos from prior Festival of Trees, and Orlando Museum of Art Membership can be found on the Orlando Museum of Art website.
36th Annual Festival of Trees
WHEN: November 11-20, 2022
TIME: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
PRICE: Adults $20 | Child (3-12) $12 | Senior (60+) $12
LOCATION: Orlando Museum of Art – 2416 North Mills Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803
THEME: Gifts of the Season
PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE: 36th Annual Festival of Trees Tickets
Want More Themed Christmas Tree Ideas?
For those craving even more themed Christmas tree ideas, check out my review of the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs. This year the popular holiday event begins on November 11, 2022, and will showcase 20+ trees, all inspired by a specific Disney character or story. If you love all things Disney, and happen to be in the Central Florida area for the holidays, you may want to check this out. Here’s the best part… it’s FREE! I know, you can’t say that about too many Disney related things, right? Disney Springs is a great way to experience the magic of Disney, without paying the outrageously high theme park admission prices. And, the atmosphere is especially magical during the holiday season!
Please Share Your Thoughts
I hope you have been filled with inspiration from the photo tour of Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art in Central Florida. Please share your thoughts, ask a question, or simply let me know you have visited today by leaving a reply in the comment section below. Hearing from you is the best part of my day!
Harry P. Leu Gardens – An ‘Old Florida’ Attraction
Leu Gardens — Vintage Florida!
As a 16-year Florida resident, I’m always searching for little hidden gems off-the-beaten-path from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida theme parks and other tourist-driven attractions. Amazingly, I’ve found one in the most unexpected place… 2 miles from downtown Orlando! So close to ‘the Mouse’ and his house at Walt Disney World, yet a million miles away (at least that’s what it seemed like to me). Don’t get me wrong, I’m one of Mickey’s fondest fans, but every now and then I crave some of God’s handiwork more than man-made Disney magic. The Harry P. Leu Gardens satisfied my appetite for an authentic “Old Florida” respite. They have perfectly preserved the beauty, culture, history, and environment of vintage Florida.
Harry P. Leu Gardens – Celebrating 55 Years!
Harry P. Leu Gardens — Celebrating 55 Years!
In 1961, 55 years ago, the City of Orlando was given a grandiose gift. Harry Leu and his wife Mary Jane donated their home and gardens to the “City Beautiful.” The restored 19th century home has become the historic Leu House Museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The botanical gardens contain nearly 50 acres of cultivated tropical and semi-tropical plant collections from around the world, thanks to the extensive international travels of Mr. and Mrs. Leu. [Of course, that was prior to governmental regulations that restrict bringing certain agricultural products into the United States.] Their passion for horticulture is what transformed their estate into the botanical oasis that we enjoy today.
Leu Gardens — 14 Dedicated Areas
Leu Gardens is strategically divided into 14 different areas to better appreciate the offerings. Interpretive signs, QR Codes, and plant labels can be found throughout the gardens. I did, however, think the signage could have been better. Even with a map, my hubby and I found the navigational aides to be sparse for such a vast property. Although, we did encounter several staff members in golf carts who were more than willing to help with directions and any questions we had.
Following is a listing of the 14 dedicated areas within Leu gardens:
- Garden House Welcome Center
- Tropical Stream Garden
- Idea Garden
- Herb Garden
- Butterfly Garden
- Vegetable Garden
- Rose Garden
- Color Garden
- Leu House Museum
- Palms, Cycads & Bamboo
- Floral Clock
- White Garden
- Arid Garden
- Camellias
Leu Gardens — Free Admission The First Monday Of Every Month
My husband and I visited Leu Gardens in early October. We happened to be there on the first Monday of the month, and received free entry, as is their policy every month (excludes special events). Although adult admission is a modest $10 (parking included), the “freebie” was greatly appreciated.
Additionally, if you have a Membership in any of the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Gardens throughout the country, you can take advantage of the reciprocal admission program and receive free admission to Leu Gardens simply by showing your Membership Card and photo ID. Florida has some outstanding botanical gardens and museums that participate such as Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, and Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden in Winter Park. With nearly 50 reciprocal partners in the Sunshine State, the cost of Membership will certainly pay for itself many times over! Here’s a link with additional information on a Leu Gardens Membership, including pricing and benefits.
Leu Gardens Self-Guided Walking Tour
Our tour at Leu Gardens began at the Garden House Welcome Center where we picked up a map for our self-guided walking tour. This building also provides space for business meetings, receptions, retreats, art exhibits, and plant groups. Classes are offered year-round for gardening, landscaping, history, wildlife, art, photography, and cooking.
For the plant enthusiast, be sure to stop by the botanic library. The Gift Shop was small but had some unique items to memorialize your visit or suitable for gift giving. A practical purchase would be the all natural botanical herbal insect repellent for your leisurely stroll amidst the gardens.
Leu Gardens Gift Shop
All Natural Botanical Herbal Insect Repellent
Leu Gardens In The Fall
As previously mentioned, I visited Leu Gardens in early October. Since the climate of Central Florida is conducive for year-round plantings, I was expecting much more color. There were a few pockets of gorgeous autumn hues in the Color Garden, but generally speaking, flowering plants were not plentiful. This was my greatest disappointment. I enjoyed the gardens enough to return, but will choose a different season when I do.
Entrance To The Color Garden
Leu Gardens In The Fall
Autumn At Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens In The Fall – Color Garden
Leu House Museum — National Register Of Historic Places
The Leu House Museum is included in the entry fee, and should not be missed. I truly enjoyed my guided tour through this restored 19th century home. It was fascinating to see and hear about turn-of-the-century Florida living. Four families owned the property before it opened to the public in 1961, and each story was captivating. Our docent was extremely knowledgeable and answered questions without hesitation. Many of the furnishings in this historic home were originals left by Mrs. Leu; others are period reproductions.
Tours last about 25 minutes and are available on the hour and half hour. From November 13 – January 2 you can see the Leu House Museum decorated for the holidays. Creative juices flow as 9 local interior designers work their magic in each of the 11 rooms of this estate — everything from Christmas trees, tablescapes, wreaths, vintage ornaments, and much more. You’ll go home with a few decorating tips, for sure!
Leu House Museum – National Register Of Historic Places
Leu House Museum Photo Tour
The Majestic Rose Garden — In Memory Of Mary Jane Leu
The Rose Garden at Harry P. Leu Gardens is nothing short of spectacular! The fact that Mary Jane Leu loved roses is quite evident here. She created it as a place of beauty and education for future generations. It contains some very old garden roses; those existing prior to 1867, as well as more modern varieties. This is the largest formal rose garden in the state of Florida! No wonder Leu Gardens is a favorite wedding destination that hosts over 300 weddings every year. It has been voted as one of the best wedding venues in Orlando.
Formal Rose Garden At Harry P. Leu Gardens
Formal Rose Garden
Largest Formal Rose Garden In Florida
The Floral Clock At Leu Gardens
There are certain not-to-be-missed sections of Leu Gardens, and the Floral Clock is one of them. This feature was inspired by the famous floral clock of Edinburgh, Scotland. The Scottish version was commissioned in 1903, and was the first of its kind in the world. This one was donated by the Kiwanis Club of Orlando in 1975. The unique and stunning display is an actual working clock and the floral designs that fill the face of the clock are changed seasonally. Although not as intricate and well-groomed as I had expected (it appeared somewhat overgrown and the hands of the clock were difficult to see), it is worth a few minutes of your time.
Leu Gardens Floral Clock
The Landing With Floral Clock In Background – A Popular Wedding Location
The Landing At Leu Gardens
Palms, Cycads, And Bamboo
This specialty garden is sometimes referred to as “the dinosaur garden” because it contains many plants dating back to the prehistoric age. For example, Cycads are primitive plants that existed for nearly 200 million years. During the Cretaceous Period when dinosaurs ruled the Earth they were the main plant life. Even though they are palm-like in appearance, they are cone bearing plants and have no relation to palms.
The Palms in this collection rank among the most extensive in the United States. It is vast with nearly 400 species that are well suited for our Central Florida climate. Palms are useful for providing food, furniture, and even wax for surfboards (Carnauba Wax Palm). While strolling the Palm Garden, take a moment to read the plant labels that identify the common name, botanical name, plant family, and origin of each specie. They’re quite interesting.
If you’re a lover of Bamboo like I am, you will be fascinated with nearly 50 varieties in this garden. Bamboo is a woody-stemmed plant in the grass family. Some grow only a few inches tall, while others reach over 70 feet with canes 5 inches in diameter. If you’re considering planting Bamboo in your Central Florida backyard (or even in a controlled indoor environment) I highly recommend visiting Leu Gardens first, where you can check out tons of different species. Some of them have been growing for more than 30 years. When you’re ready to buy, Beautiful Bamboo in Groveland, Florida is a nursery that specializes in Bamboo, about 30 minutes from Orlando.
Dinosaurs And Cycads
Cone Bearing Cycads
Spectacular Towering Palms
Exotic Striped Bamboo Canes At Leu Gardens
Beautiful Clumping Bamboo At Leu Gardens
The Butterfly Garden
Always a favorite of mine is the Butterfly Garden. I’ve been to many in Florida; some were pretty awesome, other’s not so much! The one at Leu Gardens is worth a few minutes of your time. There’s just something about this flying insect that puts a smile on my face every time I see one. To me, this gentle creature that floats in the wind is the epitome of beauty and grace. In this specialty garden, a wide variety of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees are planted to attract different types of butterflies. Some of them are nectar plants, others are larval plants that caterpillars eat. Many also attract hummingbirds and night-flying moths.
While in the Butterfly Garden, another visitor pointed out the presence of a snake that was trying hard to go un-noticed. Obviously, he got busted! I didn’t stick around long enough to see what kind it was, for even the harmless ones freak me out. Because of my speedy departure from this area, I didn’t spend any time looking at the Herb Garden which displays both culinary and medicinal herbs. The fragrant aroma, however, was proof enough that it existed! The Vegetable Garden area seemed barren. The fenced-in plot of land didn’t have any visible crops. Perhaps they were in-between the summer and fall plantings.
*TIP… Although Leu Gardens is impeccably manicured and maintained, be aware that it is a vast, open area with dense, lush plantings that may be desirable to wandering animals and critters like the one mentioned above. I highly recommend staying on the dedicated walkways. Be vigilant and keep your adventurous spirit in check!
Entrance To Butterfly Garden
Butterfly Garden
Butterfly Garden
Lake Rowena Overlook
The Tropical Stream Garden is appropriately named. There’s a variety of tropical and subtropical plants throughout this garden that create the atmosphere of a tropical rainforest. This is where you’ll see bird-of-paradise, bananas, bromeliads, heliconias, and other tropical beauties. If you’re looking to momentarily escape the Florida heat you’ll want to linger the peaceful paths here. There’s an abundance of shade in this garden. There’s also a sparkling little stream that winds its way into Lake Rowena.
The Lake Rowena overlook was beautiful and relaxing. The boardwalk and gazebo are named for John Wyckoff, one of Leu Gardens original board members. This is one of the newer additions to the Gardens. Take a walking break and enjoy the stunning vistas here. An aquatic wetland garden contains mostly native plants. And… have your camera ready — I’d be surprised if you don’t see heron, turtles, and an occasional alligator!
Lake Rowena Overlook
Peak Season Pops — A Refreshing Respite
Although Leu Gardens does not currently have a cafe on site, frequently there are visiting approved vendors that offer sandwiches or snacks. Hubby was hoping for a hot dog stand, but got to try some popular popsicles instead. Peak Season Pops are gourmet ice pops that are all-natural and handmade with local seasonal ingredients. We met the owners who are an awesome husband and wife team. Honestly… they were the best ice pops I’ve ever had! I’m not usually a popsicle person, but it was very hot and they looked so refreshing. I had the Autumn Roasted Peach and hubby had the Pineapple Lemongrass. Both were outstanding. If you’re in the Orlando area, check out Peak Season Pops for delivery options, special events, birthdays, etc. I highly recommend them. Brooke Chen (owner) was telling us they just did a wedding wherein the bride and groom opted to serve gourmet popsicles instead of traditional wedding cake! Apparently this trend is catching on here in the Sunshine State. For additional information visit the Peak Season Pops website.
*TIP… If you’re planning to be at Leu Gardens for a while, small bag lunches are allowed on the patio of the Garden House Welcome Center. Beverage vending machines are also available in the lobby of the Welcome Center.
Brooke and Danny Chen – Owners Of Peak Season Pops
Gourmet Ice Pops In Seasonal Flavors
Beyond The Gardens — Educational Classes And Workshops
It’s very difficult to see the entire 50-acre botanical Garden in less than 2 hours. We did a leisurely stroll for more than that, yet still managed to miss a few key points of interest. We did not view the Mizell Cemetery or the Idea Garden. The world famous Camellias (largest documented collection in Eastern North America) were not in bloom so we didn’t spend much time in those areas. A 2 hour window is recommended for adequate viewing of the Gardens. We’re planning a return trip, but possibly in the spring, hoping for significantly more color.
Visit the Leu Gardens website for a calendar showing what plants are in bloom in any given month. There’s also information on upcoming events and classes — things like monthly outdoor movie night, monthly storytelling for young children, seasonal concerts, annual plant sale, seed swaps, gardening for honey bees, aroma therapy for intestinal health, bats of Florida, the Leu House holiday lecture, wreath making, mini gardening and fairy gardens, casual Tuscan cooking, and on and on and on! The diverse educational offerings are impressive at Leu Gardens.
*TIP… Bring (or purchase) bottled water, apply insect repellant, and wear comfortable shoes!
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENT:
Nature Connects® Art with LEGO® Bricks: January 6 – April 22
A one-of-a-kind, outdoor exhibit featuring many larger-than-life sculptures built with LEGO® bricks. Over 450,000 bricks were used in this exhibit to bring nature to life throughout the 50-acre botanical gardens.
Price: Included in the daytime Garden admission of $10 (adult)
Hummingbird from Nature Connects Art with LEGO Bricks!
In Conclusion
Leu Gardens is an urban display of botanical beauty just a short drive from the “happiest place on earth!” It’s not nearly as magical, mind-blowing, or mesmerizing as ‘the Mouse,’ yet memorable in many ways. You’ll experience a sense of serenity that is instantly calming as you intentionally distance yourself from the insanity that sometimes exists in Central Florida tourist areas. Wildly tropical with formal gardens. I know, sounds like an oxymoron, but at Leu Gardens they co-exist in perfect harmony. So go ahead and do your crazy theme park thing, then swing by here for a perfect portrait of what Florida used to be!
Vintage Florida – The Way It Used To Be!
Question: Have you been to Leu Gardens? If you have visited this Central Florida attraction, please share your experience & helpful information with our readers by replying in the comment section below!
The Morse Museum – Winter Park, Florida
The Morse Museum — A Winter Park Winner!
Are you an admirer of Tiffany glass? I wasn’t, until I visited the Morse Museum in Winter Park, Florida. At the risk of offending long-time Tiffany glass aficionados, I just couldn’t understand what all the fuss over Tiffany lamps was about. I thought they were just okay, nothing special, and certainly not superb enough to warrant the kind of bucks required to purchase an original. In fact, I used to think the Tiffany connoisseurs were a bit crazy to dish out such colossal sums of money at those high-end auction houses — more money than brains is what I thought. But my attitude changed when Hubby and I spent some serious time at The Morse Museum during my birthday getaway to wonderful Winter Park.
“Judging art is no trouble at all. Everyone does it. Understanding art calls for time and thought. That is where the excitement and fun are.”
~Hugh F. McKean
World’s Most Comprehensive Collection of Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848-1933)
Although there are other galleries and exhibits at The Morse Museum, the majority of the building houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Since I wasn’t a Tiffany enthusiast, I had no idea his artistic talents were so vast. Whenever I heard the name “Tiffany” I automatically associated it with Tiffany lamps. But I learned there was so much more — including jewelry, pottery, enamels, paintings, mosaics, blown glass, and leaded-glass windows. In fact, Louis Tiffany was a painter, a decorator, an architect, a photographer, and a designer of furniture. In 1881 he was commissioned to decorate Mark Twain’s residence in Hartford, Connecticut. The following year he was commissioned by the 21st President of the United States, Chester Arthur, to decorate the Blue Room, East Room, a corridor, and the State Dining Room of the White House. His achievements were as broad as his success which extends across America, through Europe, and around the world.
The Morse Museum offers a short, but in-depth film which beautifully covers the life and art of Mr. Tiffany. It plays continuously, which enables visitors to enter and exit the theatre at any given time. I recommend watching the film before touring the galleries. That’s where I became educated regarding Tiffany’s accomplishments. Having that knowledge brought a huge appreciation for his works as I viewed the masterpieces on display.
The Morse includes works from every medium and type produced by Tiffany, and they’re nicely separated in many different rooms. Each room has a pamphlet specific to that gallery. Make sure to pick one up every step of the way. Not only does it include an Object Guide with information on each individual item in the room but also gives much history. By the time I completed my tour I had accumulated nearly 20 of them, which, when woven together, creates a wonderful biography of Mr. Tiffany. They’re a nice keepsake and souvenir. NO PHOTOGRAPHY of any type (camera, cell phone, video, etc.) is allowed in the Morse Museum, which is another good reason to take home the Object Guides, which contain small black & white photos of the most popular Tiffany works.
Morse Museum Object Guide
The Chapel
One of my favorite parts of the Morse Museum was the chapel. Mr. Tiffany originally created the chapel interior for an exhibit at the Chicago world’s fair in 1893. When the fair ended he reinstalled it at his New York City studios. After that, the chapel interior was installed in Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in New York. Eventually, the chapel fell in disrepair so Tiffany reacquired it, restored it, and moved it to his private residence on Long Island. And currently, it’s on display at the Morse Museum. All of the elements of the chapel exhibit are original, except two of the four benches. Amazing, considering it dates back to 1893! With the marble and glass-mosaic furnishings, four huge leaded-glass windows, sixteen glass-mosaic encrusted columns, and 10-foot by 8-foot chandelier, it was difficult keeping my camera concealed. More than any other part of the Museum, I really wanted a few photos of the chapel. It was soooo tempting to sneak a pic… but I obeyed the rules!
Since visitors are allowed to enter the chapel and sit on the benches, hubby and I did so. There was not only appreciation for the incredible talent on display, but everyone present had a deep reverence for the religious aspect. It was so quiet we could have heard a pin drop, and the atmosphere seemed to carry a Divine presence.
Laurelton Hall — Louis Tiffany’s Most Personal Design Project
In addition to galleries with Tiffany art glass, pottery, jewelry, and Tiffany lamps, a large section of the Morse Museum is dedicated to art and architectural objects from the most personal design project of Tiffany’s career — Laurelton Hall. About a half dozen rooms have been re-created to simulate the appearance and character of Tiffany’s private residence.
Laurelton Hall was a vast country estate located on 580 acres on Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. The mansion consisted of 84 rooms on 8 different levels. He also built other structures on the property including conservatories and stables, and 60 acres of gardens. Every aspect of the estate was designed by Mr. Tiffany, and he was the interior decorator as well. Many of his own creations shared space with objects he collected from his travels around the world. Upon his retirement in 1918, Laurelton Hall became a study center for young artists and a museum for his collections and personal works. Mr. Tiffany died in 1933 and by 1940 a lack of finances forced the Tiffany Foundation to move to New York City and sell his prized collections as well as Laurelton Hall estate. Tragically, a fire gutted the mansion in 1957.
The Florida Connection
As news of the fire spread, Jeannette McKean (founder of The Morse Museum) along with her husband, Hugh, travelled from Florida to Laurelton Hall and purchased whatever Tiffany art pieces survived on the estate. Jeannette had been a long-time collector of Tiffany’s work, and Hugh was an artist himself who studied at Laurelton Hall. Undoubtedly, they were two of Mr. Tiffany’s biggest fans. The husband and wife team had the items shipped back to Florida and became the overseers of a massive restoration project on the Tiffany pieces (including the previously mentioned Chapel). The film we watched chronicled the process which was nothing short of remarkable. Jeannette and Hugh used the help of former Tiffany employees, artists who studied at Laurelton, collectors, and scholars to painstakingly piece together the life and art of Louis Tiffany so that visitors like me can experience it at the Morse Museum. Their collections were built over a half-century. Jeannette founded the Winter Park Morse Museum in 1942 and named it after her grandfather, Charles Hosmer Morse.
The McKeans set up the Charles Hosmer Morse Foundation to support the private Museum, and today it is able to operate without contributions of public funds. Trust me, the very modest admission fee of Adults $5/ Seniors $4/ Students $1 is well worth it. As an added bonus, Friday nights from 4-8pm are free from November through April! There’s always something special happening at The Morse Museum like “Holidays at the Morse,” “Spring at the Morse,” and “Summer at the Morse.” Each season you’ll find options like live music, curator tours, art demonstrations, lecture series, organized children’s events, or free films and matinees. Additionally, throughout the year, many of the Holidays have free admission. Visit their website at http://www.morsemuseum.org for hours of operation and more information.
Exhibitions at the Morse Museum 2015-2016 Guide
The Daffodil Terrace
After leaving the Tiffany Chapel exhibit we headed for the Laurelton Hall section of the Museum. There was a small area aptly named “Introduction to Laurelton Hall,” followed by the Daffodil Terrace. Mr. Tiffany loved daffodils. In fact, it was his favorite flower. Not only did he cultivate and plant them in prominent locations throughout Laurelton Hall, he made his own versions in glass for windows and lamps.
Just like the original Daffodil Terrace at Mr. Tiffany’s Long Island Estate, the one at the Museum contained eight Carrara marble columns each with concrete capitals encrusted with cast-glass daffodils. In the center of the columns was a skylight made of iridescent glass in a pear tree motif (his Long Island residence had a real pear tree in a planter that poked through an opening in the skylight). The ceiling was painted cedar wood, (the original used stenciled cedar Mr. Tiffany acquired in North Africa), and more than one hundred molded tiles in geometric and floral motifs, perfectly replicated right down to the wood-grain patterns of the originals. The Daffodil Terrace has a small sitting area where Museum guests may rest and overlooks a beautiful courtyard. This is the only area in the entire Museum that allows photography.
The Daffodil Terrace leads to the entrance of Laurelton Hall, which contains an original Iron Gate, circa 1904. Here, we were able to view replicated rooms of Tiffany’s mansion including the Dining Room, Living Room, Reception Hall and Study, all containing many original works of art.
Concrete Capitals Encrusted with Cast-glass Daffodils
In Conclusion
My visit to the Morse Museum was worth far more than the meager $5 admission fee. You can scurry through and be out in an hour, or, like me you can tarry and read the Gallery Guides as you go for a deeper appreciation of the life and art of an American Icon. The Staff/volunteers at the Museum were all friendly and beyond helpful. Most of the larger rooms had a dedicated Security Guard, especially in the Tiffany exhibits. I had questions along the way, all of which were impressively answered by the Security team who were extremely knowledgeable. Feel free to ask them anything. I got the impression they actually liked the engagement.
Yes, Tiffany Studios in New York City made leaded glass lamps by the thousands — but Louis Comfort Tiffany also made unique one-of-a-kind massive windows and little known works of art that can only be seen in one place… the Morse Museum in Winter Park, Florida! I highly recommend this Museum!
A Few of the Tiffany Lamps from the Morse Collection Listed in the 2015-2016 Guide
ADDITIONAL POINTS OF INTEREST & ACTIVITIES IN WINTER PARK
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Winter Park Food and History Tour
Have you been to the Morse Museum? Please share your experience with our readers, or let us know the name of your favorite Florida Museum.
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens – Winter Park, Florida
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens — National Register of Historic Places
The older I get the greater appreciation I have for ‘old’ things! For me, the aging process has invoked a desire to seek out historical places, oftentimes a serene paradise of beauty and tranquility. These special spots of Americana seem frozen in time, just waiting to be discovered. Since May is National Historic Preservation Month it seemed fitting to tell you about a fabulous Florida historical find, right here in my own backyard.
It was during my birthday weekend in Winter Park, Florida when I came across The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens. The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hubby and I spent hours exploring the compelling world of renowned artist and sculptor Albin Polasek. Our Polasek experience featured the famed artist’s home and studio and a 3.5-acre lakeside sculpture garden, an outstanding oasis of peacefulness and creative artistic genius.
May 2, 2000 – Albin Polasek House and Studio Added to National Register of Historic Places
Historic Artists’ Homes & Studios (HAHS) — National Trust for Historic Preservation
I’m almost embarrassed to admit that prior to my visit I had never even heard of Albin Polasek. Thank goodness for the endeavors of the Historic Artists’ Homes & Studios (HAHS), a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The national consortium is dedicated to helping American art-related historic sites preserve their buildings and collections so that people like me can be introduced to people with remarkable talent like Mr. Polasek.
If you have any interest at all in American Art, you should check out the organization’s website at http://Chesterwood.org. From New York to California, and everywhere in between, the extraordinary HAHS Sites host a half million visitors a year (plus 2, now that we’ve gone!), allowing them to step inside the intimate living and work spaces of American artists across the country. It’s one thing to read about artistic talent, but when we get to explore the actual places where painters had set up their easels and sculptors positioned their modeling stands, it can profoundly enrich our understanding of the creative process. There are at least 33 HAHS Sites nationwide that tell amazing stories of these artists’ lives. There’s probably a few in your State!
There are benefits of becoming a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation:
- A one-year subscription to the National Trust’s quarterly magazine, Preservation
- Special discounts and packages for hotel stays at participating Historic Hotels of America
- Worldwide travel possibilities with National Trust Tours
- A personalized membership card which will outline further benefits as a member of the organization
Who was Albin Polasek?
Mr Polasek was born in 1879 in Frenstat, Moravia (modern day Czech Republic). He apprenticed as a woodcarver in Vienna prior to immigrating to the United States in 1901; he was 22 years young. He spent 4 years in the Midwest working as a woodcarver, then began his formal art training in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. His teacher and mentor was the sensational sculptor, Charles Grafly. Under his guidance, Mr. Polasek learned the traditional techniques of sculpting, while developing his own distinct style. Two of Albin’s best-known sculptures were also his earliest. He created Man Carving His Own Destiny in 1907 and Eternal Moment in 1909, both as a student of the Pennsylvania Academy.
After touring the Albin Polasek Museum it’s difficult to choose a favorite sculpture as they were all spectacular specimens of a creative mind, but the Man Carving His Own Destiny certainly captured my attention and would be a top-pick for me. It was located on the front lawn prior to the Museum’s front entrance. It was a visual work of art, but for me, the intellectual purpose could not be overlooked. It was a vivid reminder that every person is responsible for carving out his own destiny. After a few minutes of staring down this magnum opus, I received this interpretation: Our purpose in life doesn’t just happen! Most often it’s a long painful process, whereby we chisel a path one grueling step after another — just like the sculptor did when he chiseled this masterpiece out of a chunk of cold rock. How he did it was beyond me, and how you and I reach our destiny despite adversity is no less dramatic.
Man Carving His Own Destiny – Limestone Sculpture by Albin Polasek 1961 (Original 1907)
In 1909, while still a student at the Academy, Albin Polasek became an American citizen. One year later, Polasek won the Prix de Rome competition, thus receiving a 3-year fellowship at the American Academy of Art in Rome. During his studies in Rome his Sower sculpture received an Honorable Mention award at the 1913 Paris salon. After completing his studies in Italy he came back to the United States and set up a studio in New York City. At the age of 37 he was invited to head the Sculpture Department at the Art Institute of Chicago. He was best-known for his tenure there, where he remained for nearly three decades.
In 1927 Polasek was elected an Associate Member of the National Academy of Design, an honor that cannot be applied for, only conferred. The honorary degree is reserved for America’s top sculptors, painters, architects, and printmakers — the creme de la creme. In 1933 he received full academician status and was able to place the coveted N.A. after his signature (meaning he’s a member of the National Academy, a goal many aspire but few obtain).
Albin Polasek Self Portrait, 1933, Bronze
Albin Polasek would go on to do large public commissions, both stateside and abroad, capturing international attention. In 1942, his Mother Crying Over the World sculpture created a world standard for depicting the horror and grief of the Second World War. The sculpture was included in our tour, and was heart-rending, to say the least.
Albin Polasek Retires in Winter Park Florida
At the age of 70, Albin Polasek retired to Winter Park, Florida where he self-designed his home that remains on beautiful Lake Osceola. Just a few months after retiring he suffered a stroke which left him paralyzed on his left side. The rest of his life was spent in a wheelchair — and although his health and physical strength was cruelly taken away, his passion remained. He was still able to draw, paint, sculpt in clay, and carve wood with his right hand. As we learned during the tour, he even continued carving stone with the help of an assistant. (See photo below of Polasek in his wheelchair carving limestone with the help of an aide.) In fact, 18 major works were completed after the stroke. One of them, the politically motivated Victory of Moral Law, received world-wide acclamation.
Even a Wheelchair Couldn’t Keep Polasek Down!
In 1961 the Albin Polasek Foundation was set up to share his life’s works with the public. The Polasek Museum is a 3-part experience — the artist’s home, the private chapel, and the meticulously manicured sculpture gardens. On the day we attended, parts of the Museum were undergoing routine maintenance. We were given free admission since part of the tour was not accessible. Usually, docents guide guests through the Museum offering informative commentary about the life and times of Albin Polasek, but they were not available during our visit. Just as disappointing, we missed out on seeing the chapel interior, as it is only available with a docent led tour. (But hey, what do you want for free, right?) Even though our self-guided tour was an abbreviated version of the guided-tour, we were not let down. How could we be? In his lifetime Polasek created more than 400 impressive works, half of which are currently on museum property! With creativity around every corner, there was still ample space to explore with flashes of instant inspiration over Polasek’s ingenuity.
Albin Polasek Residence-turned-museum in Winter Park, Florida
Artist Albin Polasek’s Private Chapel – Winter Park, Florida
Albin Polasek Lakeside Sculpture Gardens – Winter Park, Florida
Albin Polasek died in 1965 and was buried in Winter Park’s Palm Cemetery, with his own 12th Station of the Cross (1939) as his monument. Since then, many contributions have been made by The Polasek Foundation to the City of Winter Park and Central Florida including various sculptures and art scholarships. In 2000 Mr. Polasek was named a “Great Floridian” by the state of Florida — only those who have made significant contributions to the history and culture of the Sunshine State are recognized and given this special distinction. (He’s in good company with people like Walter Elias “Walt” Disney… remember that guy?) In 2004 Polasek was inducted into Florida Artists Hall of Fame, which honors individuals who have made sizable contributions to the Arts in Florida.
Stations of the Cross – Albin Polasek – Fiberglass and Bronze 1945
As you can imagine, the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens are a popular destination for weddings and other special events. The radiant flora of the Polasek gardens coupled with the backdrop of lazy Lake Osceola can create some impressive photography. Here’s a few of my favorites…
Pilgrim at the Eternal Gate (Bronze) – Albin Polasek Sculpture Garden, Winter Park Florida
Serenity at the Albin Polasek Gardens – Winter Park, Florida
Radiant Flora at the Albin Polasek Sculpture Garden
Wasserman/King Under The Sea – Concrete 1962 – Albin Polasek
Hubby Found Some Beautiful Bamboo… With A Burst Of Blue!
Albin Polasek Gardens Overlooking Lazy Lake Osceola
Winter Park Boat Tour As Seen from Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens
Beautiful Bamboo-lined Walkways at Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens
Albin Polasek – The Victorious Christ, Bronze 1939, (This Cast 1978)
Albin Polasek was said to have been a deeply religious man, and elements of his Christian faith were visible throughout the tour of the Museum and Gardens…
Inspirational Quote by Albin Polasek Regarding His God-given Purpose!
Quote by Albin Polasek Regarding the Spiritual Side of Man
The Polasek Museum gallery also features rotating exhibitions by contemporary artists as well as historical collections. On our visit we ‘stumbled’ upon Byron Walker, a native Floridian artist who resides in Winter Park. He specializes in sculptural art and landscape development. He told us that the intent of his work is to assemble and display materials in ways they were not originally designed to function. Most of his current works are created from recyclable materials such as windshield glass, wood, steel, plastics, stone, organic matter, and plant life. I took his picture (see photo below) with a piece that was on display in the Polasek Gardens — an oversized chair made from 1,255 feet of garden hose. Pretty creative, huh? I told Byron I had seen a smaller, similar version during Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival a few years ago, and to my amazement he said he was the artist that created it for Disney! It’s a small world after all… (pun intended!).
Artist Byron Walker With His Garden Hose Chair
Winter Park Paint Out — A Plein Air Festival
For 8 years the Polasek Museum has hosted the Winter Park Paint Out, an annual plain air festival. En Plein Air is a French term meaning “in the open air” and describes art works painted outdoors with the subject directly in view rather than in a studio. Since the event takes place the last week of April, they were busy making last minute preparations during our visit. If you’ve never been to the Museum, this is a fantastic time to go. Free admission is offered during the week-long festival, along with oil and acrylic painting demonstrations by 25 nationally acclaimed artists. What could be better than a front-row seat to creativity? In addition, the Saturday Night Garden Party is a special paid event that allows you to mingle with the artists (a sell-out every year) and purchase their one-of-a-kind artwork.
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENT:
9th Annual Winter Park Paint Out
Host: Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Where: 633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, Florida 32789
When: April 23 – 29, 2017
For additional information check out the event page on the Albin Polasek Museum website!
The Natural Beauty of an Angel’s Trumpet
Albin Polasek Gardens — Heaven on Earth!
As I was leaving the Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens, contemplating my next stop at The Morse Museum (with the most comprehensive collection of Tiffany Glass in the world!), I couldn’t help but notice the exquisite beauty of this Angel’s Trumpet shrub. The exotic beauty of its large trumpet-shaped fragrant blooms were a showstopper for me, and a reminder of what a heavenly day I had at the Gardens. It was enough to make my heart sing. What a great birthday celebration I had in Winter Park… it was almost as if Mr. Polasek and the angels themselves were smiling down upon me!
Have you been to the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens in Winter Park? Please share your experience or helpful information with our readers. Or perhaps you have a question? Simply reply in the comment box below — I’ll try my best to answer it!