My Review
My own opinion is that this museum is good for a rainy day. The collection has some great pieces, (an O'Keefe) however the docents here have a very protective attitude. Please do not lean in to see a detail on any art. Do not wander through the museum store too long. The building, however, is one of Saint Petersburg's nicest structures, and there are many neat architectural sites here. The best part of this site is that you can park, see the art, see local galleries, shop, and eat at "Moon Under Water" All of this within walking distance.
Their Information
History/Mission Statement
The Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida was founded by Margaret Acheson Stuart (1896-1980) and reflects her vision of providing outstanding examples of world art in an inviting, elegant setting. The Museum opened to the public in 1965. The purpose of the Museum is to increase and diffuse knowledge and appreciation of art, to collect and preserve objects of artistic interest and merit, to protect works of art, to provide facilities for research, and to offer instruction and opportunities for aesthetic enjoyment of art. The Museum is dedicated to serving all people by pursuing excellence in art from antiquity to the present through collection, exhibitions, and education for its diverse audiences.
The Building
According to architect John Volk, "a museum should give a feeling of permanence and that is what I have tried to do with this building." But this museum is not intimidating. From the guard opening the front door to the carpeted galleries, this Museum welcomes you inside both its exhibition galleries and intimate gardens and encourages you to stay. Click here for information about the Kapok tree.
The Museum of Fine Arts has the only comprehensive art collection, extending from antiquity to the present, on the Florida west coast. See outstanding works of art in galleries designed for leisurely reflection. In the meantime, please enjoy an online preview of our collection: Saint Petersburg Museum of Fine Art Website