The Ringling Museum of Art is possibly the most revered art museum in Florida.
Connected with the world-renowned Ringling College of Art and Design, the Ringling Museum constantly presents groundbreaking art and exhibitions throughout the year.
Their newest special exhibit is called “Intent to Deceive: Fakes and Forgeries in the Art World.” The collection will be displayed at the Ringling from May 23, 2014 to August 3, 2014. This collection of art is a must-see because it features art by some of the greatest pretenders in art history. The artists with work on display will include Han van Meegeren, Eric Hebborn, John Myatt, Elmyr de Hory and Mark Landis.
These men pulled off some of the most tremendous scandals in history by forging world-famous paintings and selling them as originals. As the years have passed, fakes and forgeries have developed their own acclaim and many forgeries have grown almost as collectible as original paintings.
One master of the paintbrush and artist of deception was John Myatt, who has several paintings featured in the exhibit.
According to the exhibit’s website, Myatt did not initially begin his career as a con man. Instead, he started as a struggling artist who tried to paint his own paintings, but he just could not get potential investors and buyers intrigued in his pastoral scenes. Therefore, he turned to producing “genuine fakes,” and even though this was deceptive, it was not illegal because he did not sell them as originals. However, when he met up with a professional con man, he stepped over the fine line between legal and illegal, and became involved in one of the largest illegal art hoaxes in history.
With this story and so many others, this exhibit is sure to provide a fascinating, educational experience to all visitors.
Tip for those on a budget:
If you want to attend the exhibit, but don’t want to spend full price for an admission ticket, then consider going to the Ringling on a Thursday between 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. At this time, tickets are significantly discounted. That’s a great way to save a buck or two while still having access to the museum, exhibits, and select events!