Wolfsonian-FIU Museum offers a forum to explore the merging of function and design of everyday objects from the height of the Industrial Revolution through the end of World War II. As part of Florida International University, the facility is a library, research centre, and museum all in one.
The Wolfsonian-FIU was founded by Miami Beach native Mitchell Wolfson, Jr., who was a collector and expert on modern design. Wolfson's growing collection of objects and books eventually occupied 90% of the Washington Storage Company building where he kept it stored. So, he purchased the entire building in 1986 and established the Wolfsonian Foundation.
Wolfsonian-FIU - one of the highlights of 13 Places to Learn Something New in Miami and 10 Best Museums and Galleries in Miami (Read all about Miami here)
photo by Acroterion (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Highlights of the Wolfsonian-FIU
Located in the heart of Miami’s Art Deco District, the building's architecture alone is a sight to behold. Designed by architects Mark Hampton and William Kerns, the facility was converted and renovated from the Washington Storage Company building at the behest of Wolfson.
Once the renovations of the venue were completed, the museum opened to the public in 1995. There are 2 collections in the Wolfsonian-FIU, and they feature a combined total of 180,000 exhibition pieces that span from 1885-1945. The museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian Affiliations Programme and is considered to be one of FIU's 7 campuses.
photo by Dcurator (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Good to know about the Wolfsonian-FIU
The 2 collections featured at the Wolfsonian-FIU are the library collection and the objects collection. The library collection contains rare books, postcards, brochures, and advertisements, labels, music, and much more. The object collection features pieces such as paintings, glass, textiles, lighting, appliances, and more.
The Wolfsonian-FIU also has several exhibits and installations that can change, so be sure to check with the website before your visit. Admission is free. It is suggested to book your time tickets in advance. Parking is ample in city garages, an open lot, and metered street parking. There is a café and a museum shop also on the premises.
photo by Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0) modified
Wolfsonian-FIU
Location: 1001 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Open: Thursday–Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed Monday–Wednesday)
Phone: +1 305-531-1001
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