Check out the highlights on this interview with Rob about Exciting Things Going on at Both Museums!
The Elliott is a year-round destination
“We’re a 12 month a year consortium.” Rob Steele
His point is that the Elliott isn’t just something to do during snowbird season. They intentionally work just as hard in the summer for local and regional visitors, and every guest is equally important.
Don’t wait for season! There’s always something happening at the Elliott.
Something for EVERYONE
“A surprise around every corner.” Rob Steele
This is actually reinforced by the interviewer’s personal experience. He brought his family, ranging from a 5-year-old to someone over 75, and said everyone found something entertaining and, importantly, there were things they could enjoy together.
One museum. Multiple generations. Something for everyone.
3D Doubt Your Eyes is incredibly visual and interactive
This isn’t simply an exhibition people walk through and look at. Rob describes the European exhibition as hand-painted panels designed to look three-dimensional, but visitors actually become part of the experience.
The best part: selfie stations.
Visitors can put their head inside a T. rex’s mouth, make faces, pose with the artwork, and interact with the illusions.
And apparently, people in their 80s are getting down on the floor for the photos!
Charles Fazzino is a major draw
“You can stand in front of one piece and look at it for half an hour because there’s just so much going on.” Rob Steele
Rob describes Fazzino as a world-renowned artist with a career spanning more than four decades. He is described as the official artist for the MLB All-Star Game and NFL Super Bowl, roles he has held for more than 20 years. His work has also appeared at the 9/11 Memorial, American Airlines’ terminal, and JFK Airport, and he has created work connected with presidents and governors.
The AI Fazzino experience is a WOW factor
There’s an AI holographic/interactive box featuring a life-size Charles Fazzino. Visitors can ask him questions about his art, inspirations and himself and he responds.
Rob tells the story of visitors from Finland asking questions in Finnish and receiving answers in Finnish.
Meet Charles Fazzino… without actually meeting Charles Fazzino.
The Society of Animal Artists exhibition is HUGE
The exhibition features 135 pieces of artwork and sculpture. Rob calls the work “world class” and says the museum made a long-term commitment to keeping at least 30% of its space dedicated to art.
And the variety is fantastic: Cows, Dolphins, Fish, Birds, Zebras, Horses, Wild Cats, And So Much More!
The Guide ID is a seriously a GREAT feature
Visitors can take a Guide ID device at the front desk and use it throughout the museum. Point it at exhibit markers and receive additional information about what they’re seeing.
Even better: it’s available in English, French, Spanish and German.
It also lets people explore at their own pace, rather than having to stay with a group or guided tour.
Rob says they actually had to order more because they were running out!
And Don’t Miss the House of Refuge!
The Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge, the second museum under the Historical Society of Martin County umbrella, has been beautifully renovated following an extensive restoration.
And visiting both museums is easy! A free shuttle connects the Elliott Museum and the House of Refuge, with a ride of just about five minutes.
So when you visit the Elliott, make plans to experience both of HSMC’s remarkable museums and discover two very different stories of Martin County.
One visit. Two museums. Twice the history.
Volunteers are the heart of our museums
“If you’re a smiling, happy person and you like other people…” Rob Steele
Rob says they have more than 100 volunteers, representing all kinds of backgrounds and expertise. Some have spent decades working in fields related to new exhibitions and willingly share that knowledge. Others work directly with the cars in the garage.
“We wouldn’t be open one day without them.” Rob Steele