Legend has it that during construction in the 1970s or 1980s, twenty-two exquisite Renaissance watches were found beneath the art museum’s office floorboards. Whether fact or fiction, this tale tantalizingly indicates the many mysteries surrounding the 300-plus objects John Ringling purchased in 1927 from Alva Vanderbilt Belmont’s Gothic Room at Newport.
Blue was once one of the most difficult colors to attain, making it even more expensive than gold. When a patron commissioned a work of art, he or she would usually specify the amount of money an artist should spend on the blue.
Curious to learn more about The Ringling's newest installation and the fascinating artist who created them? The Ringling library suggests five good reads on Circle of Animals/ Zodiac Heads and Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei
The books previously owned by John and Mable Ringing hold an honored place within the Library’s Special Collections. While most of John Ringling's books are in remarkably good condition (considering they were stored without air condition for many decades!) some require conservation. Take a look behind the scenes at the conservation of a book that lead John Ringling to purchase a painting in the Museum's collection.
Ninety years ago, John Ringling made the decision to move the winter quarters of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus to Sarasota, forever intertwining the town’s growth and prosperity to the Ringling circus.
You can now access information on nearly 45,000 objects in the Ringling collection from the comfort of your own home! The Ringling’s recent upgrade of eMuseum has more than doubled the number of object records available to the public.
The Ringling Archives received a grant to digitize circus route books, dating from 1842-1969. Only 400 circus route books are known to exist. Similar to yearbooks, route books contain information about people and events from the show's season.
Whether you loved the new Star Wars film or found it a bit flawed, there is no doubt that December 2015 was devoted to droids, lightsabers, and the return of an Empire, George Lucas’ Empire that is. The addition to the epic space saga may not have been everyone’s cup of whatever they serve at the Mos Eisley Cantina, but you can’t argue that the movie has been a global phenomenon breaking opening weekend records.
According to Beyoncé, Girls run the world! Known for her powerful lyrics many of the singers hit songs are filled with female empowerment, reminding listeners that women are self-reliant, ambitious, assertive, and well just plain strong.
