"Zoom out. What’s this place all about? Just two blocks from Ocean Drive is the Wolfsonian-FIU, a grand Art Deco building that’s now home to a Florida International University–affiliated museum, library, and research center dedicated to the importance of art and design throughout history. A museum's permanent collection is its defining feature: How was this one? Though it's only been around since 1995, the Wolfsonian collection showcases the entire modern age of design, from the Industrial Revolution to the end of World War II. Among the nearly 180,000 pieces in the museum’s collection are paintings, textiles, furniture, industrial design objects, rare books, and magazines. There’s a lot to take in, so it’s a good thing that the museum categorizes it into a half-dozen or more exhibitions at any given time. And the exhibits keep us coming back. What can we expect? Terrific, like Cuban Caricature and Culture: The Art of Massaguer on through March 1, 2020. It displays and analyzes influential graphic artist Conrado Walter Massaguer's illustrations of women and celebrities. What did you make of the crowd? Since it’s smack in the heart of South Beach, and children under six are admitted free, don’t be surprised to see a few tiny little faces full of confusion. Early mornings are less busy; admission is free on Fridays from 6–9 p.m. On the practical tip, how were facilities? Though it’s easy to get around the space and the galleries themselves are wide open, the best place to grab a seat (if you need it) is in the museum’s gift shop-slash-coffee bar. Any guided tours worth trying? Free tours are available on Friday nights. Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it? The Wolfsonian Design Store—which is almost an exhibition on its own, with its century-old Snead & Co. Iron Works shelving system—sells a variety of books, games, toys, kitchenware, jewelry, and other trinkets that echo the museum’s “good design is everything” theme. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere? Technically, The Wolfsonian Design Store is actually The Wolfsonian Design Store + Coffee Bar. A smattering of tables makes a great place to catch your breath, or even sneak in a little work (there’s free Wi-Fi) to go with that fabulous latte. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? If you want to walk quickly, and can only hit up maybe half of the exhibitions, head for the ongoing ones, like “Americans All,” a collection of paintings, drawings, and mosaics that were intended to be turned into large-scale murals depicting the struggles of people of color during the Great Depression. “Art and Design in the Modern Age” shows how the world evolved in the century following the Industrial Revolution. And “Material and Meaning: Earthenware, Stoneware, and Porcelain” demonstrates the importance of individual material in good design." - Jennifer M. Wood
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