On the University of Miami campus in Coral Gables, the Lowe Art Museum traces art across 5,000 years and many cultures. Its galleries bring together Renaissance and Baroque paintings, Native American art, ancient Asian objects and contemporary works. Look for colorful glass by Dale Chihuly, then leave time for the museum’s sculpture garden on campus. The collection ranges from ancient artifacts to modern art, so it suits a visit focused on both historic works and newer forms of artistic expression.
A museum that began at the University of Miami
The Lowe Art Museum grew from an art display established at the University of Miami in 1950, with support from philanthropists Joe and Emily Lowe. A freestanding museum opened to the public in 1952, becoming South Florida’s first art museum. The institution remains part of the university and serves both its academic community and the wider public.
Its collection spans 5,000 years of human creativity and includes fine art as well as archaeological and ethnographic objects. Works come from every inhabited continent, bringing together objects made for different purposes and in very different periods.
From ancient objects to contemporary glass
The galleries cover a wide range of periods and artistic traditions. Look for Greco-Roman objects, Native American art, ancient Asian artifacts, and European Renaissance and Baroque paintings. The collection also includes African art, Asian ceramics, textiles, photographs and works from the Americas. Together, these holdings make it possible to move between ancient objects and more recent art within one visit.
Contemporary glass has its own dedicated space in the Myrna and Sheldon Palley Pavilion for Contemporary Glass and Studio Arts. Dale Chihuly’s glass works are among the highlights. The museum also presents changing exhibitions, so the works on view can differ from one visit to the next.
Plan time for the campus sculptures
The collection extends beyond the museum galleries. Public sculptures are installed around the University of Miami campus, including a sculpture garden near the museum. You can add a walk among these works to your gallery visit.
Guided and self-guided tours are available. Guided tour options are described as lasting one or two hours, which gives you a useful starting point when planning your time. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, allow time for both the galleries and the outdoor sculptures.
FAQ
Where is the Lowe Art Museum?
It is at 1301 Stanford Drive on the University of Miami campus in Coral Gables, Miami.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Guided tour options last one or two hours. You can also explore the galleries and campus sculptures at your own pace.
What can I see at the Lowe Art Museum?
The collection spans 5,000 years and includes Renaissance and Baroque paintings, Native American art, ancient Asian objects and contemporary glass by Dale Chihuly.
Are there sculptures outside the museum?
Yes. Public sculptures are displayed around the University of Miami campus, including in a sculpture garden.
