Ringling Museum

After Gov. Ron DeSantis proposed transferring The Ringling Museum from Florida State University to New College of Florida, at least three people say they’ve pulled or are reconsidering planned estate gifts totaling more than $750,000.

A proposal to transfer control of the Ringling from Florida State University to New College of Florida was not included in this year’s legislative budget.

Support for USF Sarasota-Manatee came from students, faculty, former leaders of the campus and members of the business community.

Said New College trustee Ron Christaldi, a prominent Tampa lawyer and GOP political donor: "New College’s vision is to continue to grow and expand … and it needs more space to do that.”

Ben Brown said he was forced to step down from his post of two years after alumni concerns over mismanaged funds were repeatedly ignored.

Florida State University currently pours vast resources into the maintenance of The Ringling, including managing the museum’s endowment of more than $50 million to employing more than 200 staff.

Sarasota state Sen. Joe Gruters told the Tampa Bay Times the leading scenario is New College "ruling the day."

A community grassroots organization is pushing back against a proposal that would strip the Ringling Museum of Art of its partnership with FSU and give it to New College of Florida.

Gov. Ron DeSantis included the transfer in his proposed budget for 2025-26. The art museum, located less than a mile from New College in Sarasota, is currently managed by FSU.

The show includes works from 17th century Italy that are making their American debut in Sarasota.

The exhibition features over 100 artworks by twelve artists, ranging from painting, photography, woodworking, textiles, and beadwork to installation art.

Museums across the greater Tampa Bay region are offering a variety of special exhibitions during the holiday season.