Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens - Winter Park, FL
N 28° 35.781 W 081° 20.622
17R E 466394 N 3163314
Quick Description: The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens are located in Winter Park, Florida, USA.
Location: Florida, United States
Date Posted: 2/3/2008 9:13:46 AM
Waymark Code: WM33B5
Views: 18
Long Description:
Albin Polasek was one of America’s foremost sculptors of the 20th
century. This museum hosts a permanent collection of his works and
items from his personal collection.
According to the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens
webpage, the mission of the facility is: "To promote the legacy
of internationally known sculptor, Albin Polasek, N.A. and to
encourage study, appreciation and the furtherance of
representational art."
"In 1961, the Albin Polasek Foundation was founded by the
sculptor and his wife, and at that time, the residence, galleries,
chapel and gardens were opened to the public as a museum. Because
it was originally intended as a simple residence, the property is
different from the standard Florida estate. The residence is not
lavish, as Polasek had a deep appreciation for an uncomplicated
aesthetic. Similarly, the gardens are quiet and subdued, utilizing
gardening art in classic form."
"The Foundation has contributed to the culture of Winter Park
and Central Florida in many ways, including the donation of
sculptures Forest Idyl and Emily Fountain to the City of Winter
Park; long-term loan of Man Carving His Own Destiny to the Winter
Park Public Library; art scholarships to the University of Central
Florida, Rollins College and Crealde School of Art. Other
contributions have been granted to the Pennsylvania Academy of the
Fine Arts, Brown University and the Art Institute of Chicago. A
sister city relationship between the City of Winter Park and
Polasek's hometown of Frenstat, Moravia, was established in
1996."
"Beginning in 1998, the museum's staff and Board of Directors
renewed their commitment to actively promote Albin Polasek's legacy
based on a coordinated, long-range improvement plan. The plan
focuses on renovating and expanding the museum, increasing public
awareness of the museum, and developing cultural and educational
programs. Through their efforts, the museum was added to the
National Register of Historic Places in 2002. In addition, Albin
Polasek was granted posthumously the honor of Great Floridian 2000
and was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in
2004."