Cummer Museum

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens stands as a testament to Ninah Cummer’s vision of a place where art, nature, and learning come together for the benefit of all. Founded in 1958 with her personal collection and riverfront estate, the museum has grown into one of Florida’s most cherished cultural institutions. Its collection now includes more than 5,000 artworks spanning centuries and continents, while its historic gardens—framed by the St. Johns River—remain a sanctuary of reflection and beauty. Together, these elements create a welcoming environment where visitors encounter art in its many forms and discover the restorative power of nature.

While renowned for painting, sculpture, and decorative arts, the Cummer Museum has also cultivated a meaningful engagement with photography. Over the years, the museum has expanded its photography holdings and presented exhibitions that highlight the medium’s expressive depth. These initiatives allow audiences to explore photography as both an artistic discipline and a vital record of social, cultural, and environmental change. Through acquisitions, rotating displays, and partnerships with contemporary photographers, the Cummer continues to broaden its interpretation of visual storytelling and its place within a dynamic collection.

Photography often finds a natural dialogue with the museum’s gardens and riverside setting. Exhibitions featuring landscape photography, documentary projects, and nature-focused series resonate deeply with the site’s own living environment. This relationship between image and place enriches the visitor experience and underscores the museum’s commitment to presenting art that invites contemplation and discovery.

Educational programs further strengthen the museum’s photographic focus. Workshops, talks, and community events regularly include opportunities for budding and established photographers to engage with the medium. These initiatives support the museum’s broader mission to inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning through direct encounters with art.

Today, the Cummer Museum continues to honor its founder’s ideals while expanding its reach through diverse artistic expressions, including photography. With its exceptional collection, thoughtfully curated exhibitions, and lush gardens, it remains a cornerstone of cultural life in Jacksonville and a welcoming destination for all who seek beauty, insight, and connection.