The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is marking 25 years under the stewardship of Florida State University (FSU), a partnership that has resulted in major growth and development for the museum. The collaboration began in 2000, when FSU took over governance of The Ringling, which is recognized as the official State Art Museum of Florida.
Steven High, Executive Director of The Ringling, said, “We are grateful for the steadfast stewardship of The Ringling by Florida State University these past 25 years. Their support has allowed us to flourish and advance our mission to serve as the legacy of John and Mable Ringling and to inspire, educate, and entertain. We look forward to our continued partnership and success together in the years to come.”
During FSU’s tenure, The Ringling’s collection expanded by 12,500 works between 2000 and 2022—an increase that surpasses the acquisitions made in the previous five decades. The museum’s endowment also grew from $4 million to $65 million during this period. Preservation efforts included a $15 million restoration of Ca’ d’Zan, John and Mable Ringling’s historic mansion.
Education programs and outreach have also grown significantly, now drawing more than 45,000 visitors annually. New facilities built since 2000 include the John M. McKay Visitors Pavilion with amenities such as a theater and museum store; the Johnson-Blalock Education Center with an art research library; Tibbals Learning Center featuring a large circus model; Ulla R. and Arthur F. Searing Wing providing new exhibition space; Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for Asian Art; Keith D. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art; and Kolter-Coville Glass Pavilion.
Jim Clark, PhD, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Florida State University stated: “Today, The Ringling is one of the largest university-based art museums in the US. It is a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration between the state, the university, and the vibrant Sarasota and Manatee communities—a partnership that preserves history, inspires learning, and keeps the arts alive for generations to come.”
As Florida’s state art museum located in Sarasota www.ringling.org, The Ringling serves as a public asset owned by all Floridians. According to museum officials, state funding invested into The Ringling yields significant returns for taxpayers throughout Florida. Students at FSU benefit from hands-on experience in fields such as arts administration and museum studies.
Both institutions emphasized their ongoing commitment to preserving John and Mable Ringling’s mission while continuing their collaborative relationship into future years.
