Look no further if you are ready for an afternoon of enjoyment at The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy. The Museum was founded in 2006 by Marietta Lee who, having traveled to renowned museums around the world, found that humorous art was under-represented. In her travels, she discovered an enormous variety of American artists with fresh, colorful, creative and upbeat ideas. Ms. Lee, a graduate of the Ringing College of Art & Design, wanted to bring all of these “out of the box” artists together. Knowing Sarasota as an art-friendly community, Marietta was sure it would be the perfect spot for the Museum.
Wander, with wonder, among the outdoor garden featuring grand pink flamingos, a bridge, a bathysphere, a ballerina and a stainless-steel rocket ship made from a variety of materials. The indoor part of the Museum features works all from American artists.
Visitors of every age come to the Museum to enjoy the art, and enrich their lives in a colorful, friendly environment where they can relax, forget their problems, slow down to smell the roses, and enjoy the present.
One of the exhibit rooms has three suspended wire bodies elegantly dancing in the breeze. With the lights out, visitors can make sounds, like clapping or singing, making the lights in the ceiling come on in rhythmic, spectacular motions. There’s even a guard at the door who is so lifelike, it’s very difficult to believe he’s not alive.
Being at the Museum will inspire your creativity, touch your heart and just make you feel good. That is why the Museum has become The Smiley Place!
The Museum is open November through May on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons from 1-4 P M. There is no fee, but a donation is always welcome.
2121 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 364-3399. [email protected].
