The Mennello Museum of American Art is a compact art museum in Loch Haven Park, beside Lake Formosa in Orlando. Its permanent collection centers on Earl Cunningham, a self-taught painter whose colorful coastal scenes range from Florida to other parts of the Atlantic coast. Rotating exhibitions bring in more American artists, and the former Howard Phillips home gives the galleries an intimate scale. Outside, walk among works in the Marilyn L. Mennello Sculpture Garden and pause beneath the large live oak known as The Mayor. Family activities add another reason to visit.
Earl Cunningham’s paintings
The museum was established in 1998 to preserve, exhibit and interpret paintings by Earl Cunningham, a self-taught American artist. His work is the collection’s central focus, with coastal landscapes inspired by places along the Atlantic coast, from Florida north to Maine and Nova Scotia.
Cunningham’s paintings use bright color and draw on maritime subjects and landscapes. Spend time looking closely at the scenes, then watch the educational video in the gallery to learn more about the artist and his work. The museum’s collection also includes works by other self-taught artists.
A small museum in a former home
The galleries are in the former Howard Phillips house in Loch Haven Park. Its domestic scale makes this a more compact visit than a large art museum: one account of a docent-led tour through the four rooms put the visit at about an hour and a half. Seating is available for breaks.
Alongside its permanent collection, the museum presents temporary exhibitions featuring American artists. The program spans traditional and contemporary work, so exhibitions can bring a different focus to a return visit. The museum also runs educational initiatives, events and programs for families.
Art and nature by Lake Formosa
The Marilyn L. Mennello Sculpture Garden sits outside beside Lake Formosa. Paths lead past outdoor sculptures and beneath a large live oak called The Mayor. The grounds are also a place to stroll by the water, where turtles can sometimes be seen near the shore.
The garden hosts outdoor activities, including yoga, and is part of the museum’s wider program. Free Family Fun Day takes place on the second Sunday of each month, with admission, child-friendly art activities and tours. Families can make a small art project, and the activities are connected to the current exhibition. Arriving earlier is a practical choice if you want to avoid the busier part of the day.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the Mennello Museum of American Art known for?
The museum is known for its collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham, a self-taught artist whose work includes colorful coastal landscapes. It also presents temporary exhibitions of American art.
How long should you spend at the Mennello Museum?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for the galleries and sculpture garden. A docent-led visit through the four rooms has taken about an hour and a half.
Is there a free day at the Mennello Museum?
Yes. Free Family Fun Day is held on the second Sunday of each month, with free admission, art activities and tours.
What can you see outside the museum?
The Marilyn L. Mennello Sculpture Garden has outdoor artworks, walking paths and a large live oak called The Mayor. It sits beside Lake Formosa.
