leepa-rattner museum of art

patpetetravel

And this one never disappoints. We were there in February this year and the Miniature Art exhibit was fascinating! They had three miniature artists working diligently at their craft or explaining the process to museum goers. We went on a Sunday so entry was free. (We did put a contribution in the box.)Various panels of miniature paintings had small, battery powered lights so you could see better and several had magnifying glasses attached to them. This let you feel like you were a real art afficionado! Studying the pictures under magnifying glasses gave us a chance to interact.I picked up several, small gifts in the museum shop which I had not seen anywhere else in Florida.

VoyageurNewYork

St. Petersburg College is so fortunate to have this wonderful small museum with its various diverse collections. We spent 3 hours exploring all the galleries, some of which were very interactive. Abraham Rattner and Esther Gentle were new artists to me and it was interesting to learn their life histories. The full-size reproduction of Picasso's "Guernica" was nicely set off by a video program explaining the history and artistry of the painting. The annual exhibit of Florida artists offered a lot of variety of styles.

travelroc12

museum is small, permanent collection is contemporary garbage, of no interest to classical art patrons. however spring show of minature art is outstanding.free parking, pleasant staff. wish the art collection of minature paintings, sculpture was a permanent exhibit.

dlaverty12

We loved the highlight of the museum, the only exact replica of Picasso's famous Guernica. There is a narrated explanation of the painting and it lights up from behind during the explanation. The staff is very knowledgeable and willing to explain things. Great stop for home schoolers! Don't miss this gem!

F2810VSmichaelm

I live in Tarpon Springs and visit art museums on all of my travels. L-R has an excellent collection of works on paper and mount thoughtful and intelligent exhibits. there are rotating exhibits from Floridians and regional artist and they are well worth a trip (3 or 4 visits a year).Note that the museum is small but easy to get to and free parking is always available. I expect to leave some of my personal collection of works on paper as I know they would be well cared for and integrated into a strong working collection.

Billtfla

The museum is on the St. Petersburg College campus. Although small, the museum has spectacular displays of artists from or relocated to Florida. Our docent, Joann, did a wonderful job of providing an overview of each artist. On Sundays, admission is a contribution of your choice.

BuffaloWally

The museum is in a college campus and is OK, but not as large as we expected. A nice facility, but a limited number of pieces from others.

Ginny0871

Visited specifically for this event. Minimal fee. Has a free day once a week. Paintings well displayed in spacious gallery. On the campus of St Petersburg College

16christines16

It's a small museum not to everyone's taste but something to do. On occasion they have guest exhibits and that can be interesting .

DianneWheatley

Small rotating exhibits from area collections to complement the works by Leeper and Rattner and Esther. Building is magnificent and its architect has won awards. Good lighting, well displayed works, open spaces plus and interactive area for little and big kids. Changing exhibits about 6 times a year; organized lectures; a book club; group travel.

DianeStein

This is an amazing small museum tucked away in an unexpected location. I was surprised to find this museum and even more surprised when I walked in the door and saw the quality of the art. Definitely worth the trip!

Wanderlassie

We went after seeing George Innis exhibition reviewed in Tampa Times and were impressed with his classical works. Of a Sunday, we were allowed to 'donate' our admission fee (@ $5 for the two of us). I'd be reticent to pay more, largely because we've been spoilt with a similar museum in Bermuda that was indeed worth the $5 per person entrance fee. If you enjoy contemporary art, this is actually a good and sizeable collection and you would most likely find it worth the admission. I was impressed that there were several interesting docent-led tours going on and on-offer. I'm glad that Tarpon Springs is 'worldly' enough to at least rate an art museum, thanks to its original 'visionaries', the Leepa & Rattner families. It's a lovely behest to a community.

576EdM

This oasis on the Tarpon Springs campus of St. Petersburg College highlights the works of Abraham Rattner, his wife, Esther Gentle, and his stepson, Allen Rattner -- but also features a broad variety of visiting shows. I confess: I am not a great lover of contemporary art. But I have been completely taken by Rattner's work. He was an extraordinary power in the 50s and 60s, and I am surprised he is not better known. We've taken or sent a lot of area visitors to this museum, and they all call to thank us.It's not a large place, but it's well worth 30 to 60 minutes of your time.

jerseyquilter

beautiful local museum on the campus of St. Petersburg college in Tarpon Springs. Various types of art, enjoyable for young and old.

797richf

Very enjoyable way to spend an hour or so. Depends on how much time you want to look at the art. The museum has some interesting pieces and ranges from paintings to sculptures to hand blown glass. Make sure you ask about the discounts. The have quite a few including ex-military being free.