UP CLOSE RINGLING MEMBER

Mary And David Benfer

What do you remember about one of your first visits to the Estate?

My first impression of Ringling was the amazing combination of beautiful grounds, the breathtaking Ca’d’Zan, a world class Art Museum and the one of a kind Circus Museum all on the stunning site of the Sarasota Bay. We discovered the grounds and gardens of the estate and museums provided a joyful educational experience for “children of all ages.” We vowed to come back as many times as it would take, until we had seen it all, but realized that is an impossibility as with every visit we found new exhibitions, attractions and additions. And each time we have been enriched and uplifted.

The Ringling has changed considerably since you became Members in 2004. Are there any delights or surprises?

To us, the Ringling Museum of Art stands out as one of the most important cultural treasures in this region. Once we became members and attended several special events, it became important to us to increase our support for the rich cultural and educational experience it offers to children and adults. We have noticed the growing attention to detail in the development of the grounds with the millennium walk and restoration of Mable’s beautiful Rose Garden. In addition, the expansion of the Tibbals Learning Center is a joy for all with its uniquely created exhibitions providing hands-on experience.

What are some of your favorite objects of the collection?

It’s difficult for us to select any one object in the vast and impressive collection of glorious works of the masters; however, Rubens Triumph of the Eucharist series in the Art Museum elicits a powerful response of awe. Strolling through the Tibbals Learning Center, you become a kid again in awe of the miniature Circus. And each and every time I see it, there is something new and remarkable in the exhibition.

Do you have a memorable experience of an event or exhibition that you would like to share?

We are impressed with the depth of knowledge of the curators and docents at Ringling. Our most memorable visit was the private tour of the Rubens exhibition provided by Dr. Brilliant. She had detailed knowledge and presented it in a manner that all could grow in appreciation of his work. All of the educational offerings we’ve attended were fascinating and varied historical journeys bringing to life the travails of artists and photographers, or workshops on floral arranging coupled with a lecture on floral arranging and a tour of a traveling botanical exhibition. In typical Ringling fashion education is an unforgettable sensory experience.

What are your hopes for the Museum for the next ten years?

John and Mable Ringling’s vision to bring cultural arts and education to the Sarasota community and beyond has been preserved by the dedicated leadership team. We are excited by their efforts to reinvigorate this vision by expanding the Art Museum with the Asian art wing, attaining arboretum certification for the grounds and ongoing collaborations with notable museums around the world.

What experience do you share with others that may help them become part of the Ringling family?

The Ringling is enjoying an everexpanding following with visitors coming through the gates from around the world. We enjoy introducing the Ringling experience to friends, taking them on tours of the grounds and exhibitions, to the Historic Asolo Theater performances, or special lectures. We always encourage them to join as members so they can share the exciting programs and offerings with others. Whenever we have guests visiting in Florida, we make Ringling our first stop.