At the Ringling Museum of Art, Now – May 19, 2024

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The Ringling Museum of Art has recently revealed the restored Watermelon Regatta painting, an intriguing piece hailing from early 18th century Italy. The extensive conservation journey commenced over seven years ago with a detailed assessment of the artwork’s damages by museum conservators. Since 2017, an intricate restoration process has unfolded, involving dedicated efforts from Ringling’s own painting conservators and external experts. Attributed to the enigmatic Master of the Fertility of the Egg, the painting offers a whimsical depiction of animals engaging in human-like activities, serving as a satirical commentary on human folly with a playful touch of humor.

This restoration project was made possible through the generous support of local donors during The Ringling’s 2016 Giving Challenge and continued backing from the David A. Straz, Jr. Foundation. Now on display for a limited time, this masterpiece invites visitors to marvel at its meticulously revived splendor.

Embodied

Highlights from the collection of modern & contemporary art

At the Ringling Museum of Art Now – September 21, 2025

“EMBODIED” delves into the significance of the human figure in art, spanning painting, sculpture, fiber, video, and mixed media. This exhibit showcases diverse representations by leading artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Notable pieces include William Villalongo’s mixed media work “Still Life with Quilt and Drinking Gourds,” blending European still life tradition with Black histories and pop culture. Tony Tiger’s abstract painting marks a milestone for contemporary Native American art at The Ringling. Cauleen Smith’s film draws from Afrofuturism and Yoruba traditions to confront Florida’s complex history. Additionally, works by various artists explore portraiture, representation, and socio-political themes through abstraction and non-objective art.