Name: The Museum of Modern Art
Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Telephone: (212) 708-9400
Rating: 4.6

Works from van Gogh to Warhol & beyond plus a sculpture garden, 2 cafes & The Modern restaurant.

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Rockefeller Center

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) was founded in 1929 by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, Lillie P. Bliss, and Mary Quinn Sullivan.

Year of Establishment

MoMA boasts an extensive collection of over 200,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, prints, drawings, and design objects.

Artwork Collection

After a $450 million expansion in 2019, MoMA gained 45,000 square feet of additional gallery space, increasing its total gallery space by one-third.

Expansion

MoMA was the first museum in the United States to focus solely on contemporary art, pioneering the concept of a museum dedicated to showcasing modern artistic movements and supporting emerging artists.

Contemporary Art Focus

MoMA visitors can also access MoMA PS1, a sister museum located in Long Island City, Queens, which exclusively showcases contemporary art.

Sister Museum

The Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, founded in 1929, is renowned for its unparalleled collection of modern and contemporary art. With over 150,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and design objects, MoMA's holdings include iconic works by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. The museum also boasts a significant film collection, with over 22,000 films and 4 million film stills. MoMA's architecture is equally impressive, featuring a striking granite and glass renovation by Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguchi. The museum's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, designed by Philip Johnson, is a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. MoMA's commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives is evident in its recent expansion, which added significant gallery space for underrepresented artists.

Introduction

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City stands as a beacon of modern art, housing an unparalleled collection that traces the evolution of artistic expression from the late 19th century to the present. Founded in 1929, MoMA was the first institution dedicated solely to modern art, and its collection boasts over 150,000 works, including iconic masterpieces like Claude Monet's "Water Lilies" and Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night."

Beyond its renowned collection, MoMA is also a hub for groundbreaking exhibitions, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in modern art. Its curators have organized seminal shows that have shaped the understanding of modernism, such as the influential "Cubism and Abstract Art" exhibition in 1936. MoMA's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries is evident in its support of emerging artists and its exploration of new media, including film, photography, and performance art.

For those seeking an immersive experience in modern art, MoMA offers a wealth of resources. Its extensive library and archives provide access to rare documents, exhibition catalogs, and artist files, while its educational programs and workshops cater to diverse audiences, from art enthusiasts to aspiring artists. MoMA's dedication to fostering a deeper appreciation for modern art makes it an essential destination for anyone seeking to delve into the transformative power of artistic expression.

Modern Art

Yoshio Taniguchi's redesign of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City stands as a testament to his fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modernist principles. Taniguchi's vision for MoMA prioritized clarity, understatement, and a harmonious relationship between the museum and its surroundings.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a luminous lobby that extends from 53rd Street to the Sculpture Garden along 54th Street, creating a seamless transition between the interior and exterior spaces. The Sculpture Garden serves as the heart of the museum, offering views from each of the surrounding buildings.

Taniguchi's design incorporates unexpected vistas throughout the galleries, revealing the museum's unique context within the bustling city. The contemporary galleries, spanning 200 feet, are column-free, allowing for the display of large-scale artworks. The galleries lack distinct borders, encouraging visitors to explore and make connections between different works.

Taniguchi's attention to detail is evident in the precise installation of exterior panels, creating an uninterrupted surface. Vast panes of glass hang beneath deep porticoes, providing natural light while maintaining structural integrity. The curtain walls are detached from the floor structure to prevent deflection as the museum fills with visitors.

Taniguchi's MoMA expansion not only doubled the museum's space but also transformed it into a dynamic and engaging environment for experiencing modern art. His design celebrates the interplay of light, space, and form, creating a harmonious dialogue between the museum's collection and its architectural setting.

Yoshio Taniguchi

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City houses an unparalleled collection of over 200,000 artworks, spanning the late 19th century to the present day. Its diverse holdings encompass architecture and design, drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, prints, illustrated and artist's books, film, and electronic media.

MoMA's collection boasts iconic masterpieces such as Claude Monet's "Water Lilies," Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night," and Pablo Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon." Beyond these well-known works, the museum also houses a vast array of lesser-known gems and hidden treasures.

The Department of Photography, established in 1940, holds over 25,000 works by renowned photographers, including Edward Steichen, Diane Arbus, and Garry Winogrand. The department's collection is particularly strong in documentary images and experimental photography.

MoMA's film collection, one of the finest in the world, comprises over 25,000 titles, ranging from classic feature-length films to avant-garde and experimental works. The museum's film screenings and exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to explore the history and evolution of cinema.

The Department of Architecture and Design, founded in 1932, houses an extensive collection of architectural models, drawings, and photographs. Highlights include the Mies van der Rohe Archive and works by Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, and Alvar Aalto.

MoMA's collection continues to grow and evolve, with new acquisitions and special exhibitions constantly enriching its offerings. The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing modern and contemporary art ensures that it remains a vibrant and dynamic destination for art enthusiasts worldwide.

Collections

Philip Johnson's influence on The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is undeniable. As its founding architecture department head in the 1930s, he curated groundbreaking exhibitions like "The International Style," shaping the museum's identity. Johnson's architectural vision extended beyond exhibitions; he designed MoMA's famed sculpture garden in 1953, a masterpiece that continues to define the museum's aesthetic. His legacy remains intertwined with MoMA, despite recent controversies surrounding his past political views. The museum's ongoing reckoning with Johnson's complex history highlights the institution's commitment to addressing its past while preserving its architectural heritage.

Philip Johnson

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, a prominent figure in the art world, played a pivotal role in the establishment and development of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. Her passion for modern art led her to collaborate with Lillie P. Bliss and Mary Quinn Sullivan in 1929 to found MoMA, the first institution in the United States dedicated solely to showcasing modern art. Abby's vision for MoMA extended beyond its role as a museum; she envisioned it as a platform for promoting and nurturing the careers of emerging artists, particularly those working in the realm of modernism.

Abby's influence on MoMA extended beyond its founding. She actively shaped the museum's collection, acquiring significant works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Van Gogh. Her discerning eye and commitment to modernism helped establish MoMA as a preeminent destination for modern art enthusiasts worldwide.

Abby's legacy at MoMA is further cemented through her son, Nelson Rockefeller, who served as the museum's first president. Together, they shared a deep appreciation for modern art and worked tirelessly to expand MoMA's reach and influence. Abby's unwavering dedication and passion for modern art left an indelible mark on MoMA, transforming it into a globally recognized institution that continues to inspire and engage audiences to this day.

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City stands as a beacon of contemporary art, housing an unparalleled collection that traces the evolution of artistic expression from the late 19th century to the present day. With over 200,000 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, film, architecture, and design, MoMA offers a comprehensive exploration of the groundbreaking movements and influential figures that have shaped the contemporary art landscape.

MoMA's collection boasts masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet, alongside works by contemporary luminaries such as Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and Elizabeth Murray. The museum's curatorial approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of artistic disciplines, presenting works that challenge traditional boundaries and explore the intersection of art, technology, and social commentary.

Beyond its permanent collection, MoMA hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, showcasing the latest trends and emerging voices in contemporary art. The museum's commitment to innovation extends to its educational initiatives, offering lectures, workshops, and artist talks that provide insights into the creative process and the role of contemporary art in shaping our understanding of the world.

MoMA's dedication to contemporary art is further evident in its support of emerging artists through its prestigious Young Architects Program and its Artist in Residence program. These initiatives foster the development of new talent and provide a platform for experimentation and dialogue.

As a leading institution in the contemporary art world, MoMA continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, offering a vibrant and ever-evolving exploration of the human experience through the lens of contemporary art.

Contemporary Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is renowned for its exceptional architecture and design, showcasing a diverse collection of masterpieces from the late 19th century to the present. The museum's architectural evolution is evident in its various expansions and renovations, each contributing to its distinct character.

Yoshio Taniguchi's 2004 expansion seamlessly integrated the museum's disparate elements, creating a cohesive and contemporary facade. His minimalist approach emphasized precision and detail, resulting in a refined aesthetic. The exterior panels were installed with minimal tolerance, creating an uninterrupted surface. Vast glass panes suspended beneath deep porticoes provide ample natural light, while steel mullions ensure structural integrity.

The museum's commitment to architectural innovation continued with Diller Scofidio + Renfro's 2019 expansion. Their design extended the museum's footprint, incorporating the former site of the Folk Art Museum. The sleek canopy over the 53rd Street entrance and the "blade stair" connecting the old building to the Geffen Wing are notable additions.

MoMA's Department of Architecture and Design, established in 1932, houses an extensive collection of architectural models, drawings, and photographs. The Mies van der Rohe Archive is a highlight, showcasing the works of the renowned architect. The department also boasts a vast collection of industrial and manufactured pieces, ranging from a self-aligning ball bearing to a Bell 47D1 helicopter.

MoMA's architectural significance extends beyond its own structures. The museum has played a pivotal role in promoting modern architecture and design through exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. Its influence has shaped the architectural landscape of New York City and beyond, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Architecture and Design

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is renowned for its groundbreaking exhibitions that showcase the evolution of modern and contemporary art. With a vast collection spanning over 150,000 works, MoMA presents a diverse range of exhibitions, from retrospectives of iconic artists to thematic explorations of artistic movements.

One of the unique aspects of MoMA's exhibitions is their focus on interdisciplinary approaches. The museum often juxtaposes works from different mediums, such as painting, sculpture, photography, and film, to create a comprehensive understanding of artistic expression. This approach allows visitors to explore the connections between different art forms and gain a deeper appreciation for the creative process.

MoMA also places a strong emphasis on showcasing emerging and underrepresented artists. Through its "Projects" series, the museum provides a platform for innovative and experimental works that challenge traditional notions of art. These exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to discover new voices and perspectives in the contemporary art world.

Furthermore, MoMA's exhibitions are often accompanied by educational programs, lectures, and workshops. These programs provide visitors with the opportunity to engage with curators, artists, and scholars, gaining insights into the creative process and the historical and cultural context of the artworks.

By presenting a dynamic and thought-provoking program of exhibitions, MoMA continues to be a leading destination for art enthusiasts seeking to explore the boundaries of modern and contemporary art.

Exhibitions

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is a renowned institution that has played a pivotal role in the history of film. Founded in 1929, MoMA's film department was established in 1935, making it one of the oldest and most respected film archives in the world. The department's collection boasts over 25,000 titles, ranging from classic feature-length films to experimental shorts and documentaries.

MoMA's film program is known for its diverse and innovative exhibitions, which have showcased the work of both established and emerging filmmakers. The museum has also been instrumental in preserving and restoring important films, including Alfred Hitchcock's "Vertigo" and Orson Welles' "Citizen Kane."

In addition to its collection and exhibitions, MoMA offers a wide range of film-related programs, including screenings, lectures, and workshops. The museum's film library is also a valuable resource for researchers and scholars, with a collection of over 300,000 books, periodicals, and other materials.

MoMA's commitment to film is evident in its ongoing efforts to support and promote the art form. The museum has established several initiatives to foster new talent, including the MoMA Film Fund and the MoMA/YouTube Filmmaker-in-Residence program.

For film enthusiasts, MoMA is a must-visit destination. The museum's collection, exhibitions, and programs offer a unique and comprehensive exploration of the history and evolution of film.

The Museum of Modern Art

Did You Know?

Year of Establishment

Artwork Collection

Expansion

Contemporary Art Focus

Highlights from Reviews

Location