The Gallery of Fine Art was founded in 1979 on the Lee campus of Edison College. The gallery is a non-collecting institution and has as its primary function the exhibition, presentation and interpretation of modern and contemporary artwork in all media.
On June 4th 2004 the Gallery of Fine Art was renamed the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery, commemorating the long time association and friendship the gallery has had with Mr. Rauschenberg. Over a span of nearly 30 years the gallery has had an ongoing association with Mr. Rauschenberg that has included world premier exhibits of such notable pieces as the ¼ Mile or Two Furlong Piece, where the gallery has hosted 3 separate additions to the piece.
Annually the gallery hosts 8 exhibitions, including one student show at the end of the academic year and one major community event in the summer, Arts for Act, Inc. Each year more than 10,000 people visit the gallery, attend lectures, and participate in other activities hosted by the gallery.
Gallery Mission Statement:
- To engage and provide an active link to the community through art, cultural events and community partnerships.
- To provide cultural leadership in Southwest Florida by maintaining a high standard of quality and by offering exhibitions with a wide variety of aesthetic experiences and not otherwise available to area residents and visitors.
- To provide interpretive/educational programs which facilitate the appreciation of gallery exhibitions, to benefit students of Edison State College (who vary widely in age, background, and educational goals), students of public and private schools, and the general public within the College’s service area.