Experience the cutting-edge art scene at the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York City. Known for championing lesser-known artists and showcasing a constantly-changing array of contemporary art, this non-collective institution offers a unique and vibrant experience. From Australian painter Helen Johnson to multi-media artist Carsten Höller, the museum exhibits a diverse range of works in all mediums. With a straightforward layout and wheelchair accessibility, the New Museum is easily navigable for all visitors. Be sure to check out the small shop filled with intriguing ‘zines and art-related books, and grab a bite at the cafe offering delicious grilled cheese sandwiches and kale salads. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this innovative museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking something different from the traditional art institutions of New York City.
Location and Architecture
Founding and Opening of Bowery Location
The New Museum of Contemporary Art was founded in 1977, but it gained more attention in 2007 with the opening of its Bowery location. The Bowery location is a 7-story building that stands out with its unique architecture and design. Designed by the Tokyo-based architecture firm Sejima + Nishizawa/SANAA, the building resembles stacks of blocks on top of each other. This groundbreaking design immediately catches the eye and sets the stage for the contemporary and modern art that awaits inside.
Architecture and Design by Sejima + Nishizawa/SANAA
The architecture and design of the New Museum’s Bowery location is a masterpiece in itself. Sejima + Nishizawa/SANAA have created a building that not only stands out among New York City’s architectural landscape but also complements the contemporary and avant-garde art that is housed inside. The unique design of the building, with its stacked blocks, creates an intriguing visual experience and creates a seamless transition between the outside and inside spaces.
Exhibits and Collections
Focus on Contemporary and Modern Art
The New Museum is dedicated to showcasing contemporary and modern art in all its forms. From paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia presentations, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the current trends and developments in the art world. By focusing exclusively on contemporary art, the New Museum provides a unique platform for both established and emerging artists to share their work.
Championing Lesser Known Artists
One of the notable aspects of the New Museum is its commitment to championing lesser-known artists. Unlike other major museums in New York City that primarily showcase established artists, the New Museum believes in giving a platform to artists who may not have received mainstream recognition yet. This dedication to showcasing diverse talent offers visitors a chance to discover new voices and perspectives in the art world.
Variety of Mediums
The New Museum prides itself on presenting a wide range of artistic mediums. Visitors can expect to see traditional mediums such as painting and sculpture, as well as experimental and unconventional mediums such as video art, performance art, and interactive installations. This diverse range of mediums ensures that there is always something new and exciting to explore at the museum.
Hit or Miss Exhibits
As with any contemporary art museum, the exhibits at the New Museum can be hit or miss. The subjective nature of art means that each visitor will have their own personal preferences and opinions. While some exhibits may resonate deeply with certain individuals, others may leave them feeling uninspired. However, the constantly changing nature of the exhibits ensures that there is always a chance for visitors to encounter something that sparks their interest and ignites their passion for art.
Non-Collective Institution
Unlike traditional museums that have permanent collections, the New Museum is a non-collective institution. This means that all of the museum’s space is dedicated to hosting temporary exhibitions that showcase the latest contemporary art. By focusing on rotating exhibits, the New Museum can stay on the cutting edge of the art world and provide visitors with a constantly changing array of art to discover.
Constantly Changing Array of Art
One of the exciting aspects of visiting the New Museum is the ever-changing array of art on display. With each visit, visitors can expect to encounter new exhibits and artists, ensuring that there is always something fresh and intriguing to explore. This dynamic approach to curating exhibitions allows the museum to stay at the forefront of contemporary art and provide visitors with an immersive and exciting experience.
Visitor Experience
Draws Locals and Art Insiders
The New Museum has become a popular destination for locals and art insiders. Its focus on contemporary art and lesser-known artists attracts a community of individuals who are passionate about exploring the latest developments in the art world. This creates a vibrant and engaged visitor base that adds to the overall atmosphere of the museum.
Niche Place in Museum World
Compared to larger and more established museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the New Museum occupies a niche place in the museum world. Its dedication to contemporary art and its non-collective institution status sets it apart from its counterparts. For visitors looking for a unique and cutting-edge museum experience, the New Museum offers a refreshing and alternative option.
Few Families and Children
Due to its focus on contemporary art and avant-garde exhibits, the New Museum tends to attract fewer families and children compared to more family-friendly museums. The subject matter and sometimes challenging nature of the artwork may not be suitable for young children. However, for adults and older teenagers who have an interest in contemporary art, the New Museum offers a thought-provoking and immersive experience.
Wheelchair Accessibility
The New Museum is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors. The building is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the premises. Additionally, the museum offers two wheelchairs free of charge at the coat check, ensuring that all visitors can comfortably explore the exhibits.
Free Guided Tours
For visitors who want a deeper understanding of the artworks on display, the New Museum offers free guided tours. Led by knowledgeable docents, these tours provide insight into the sometimes avant-garde works and offer a chance to engage in meaningful discussions about contemporary art. The tours are approximately forty-five minutes long and are a valuable addition to the visitor experience.
Insight into Avant-Garde Works
Avant-garde works are a hallmark of the New Museum’s exhibits. For visitors who are interested in exploring the boundaries of contemporary art and experiencing cutting-edge artistic expressions, the museum offers a unique insight into the avant-garde. From experimental multimedia installations to thought-provoking performances, the New Museum provides a platform for artists who are pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms.
Facilities
Straightforward Layout
The layout of the New Museum is straightforward and easy to navigate. The building’s design allows for a seamless flow of visitors through the different galleries and exhibition spaces. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a regular visitor, you’ll find it easy to explore the museum and discover the diverse range of artworks on display.
Wheelchair Accessible
In line with its commitment to accessibility, the New Museum is fully wheelchair accessible. Ramps and elevators are available throughout the building, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the museum without any obstacles. The museum’s dedication to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors is commendable and sets a positive example for other cultural institutions.
Free Wheelchairs at Coat Check
To further support visitors with mobility needs, the New Museum offers free wheelchairs at the coat check. This service allows individuals who may require assistance or have difficulty walking long distances to explore the museum comfortably. By providing free wheelchairs, the museum demonstrates its commitment to accommodating all visitors and ensuring their enjoyment of the exhibits.
Gift Shop
Books and ‘Zines
The New Museum’s gift shop is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and book lovers. The shop offers a wide selection of books that cover various aspects of art, including exhibition catalogues, artist monographs, and critical essays. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to a specific artist or want to dive deep into art theory and history, the gift shop has something for everyone.
Obscure Art, Architecture, and Design Tomes
In addition to mainstream publications, the gift shop also features obscure and niche art, architecture, and design tomes. These books delve into lesser-known artists, avant-garde movements, and experimental design concepts. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge and explore the fringes of contemporary art, the gift shop’s collection of obscure publications is a must-visit.
Art Supplies and Posters
For visitors who want to take a piece of the New Museum’s artistic spirit home, the gift shop offers art supplies and posters. From paint sets and sketchbooks to limited edition prints and posters, you’ll find a range of options to unleash your creativity. These items allow you to continue your artistic journey beyond the museum’s walls and create your own unique artworks.
Quirky Home Decor Items
The gift shop also features a curated selection of quirky and unique home decor items. From abstract sculptures and art-inspired ceramics to playful wall decorations and stylish accessories, these items add a touch of artistic flair to any living space. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your own home or find a one-of-a-kind gift, the gift shop’s collection of home decor items won’t disappoint.
Café
Intelligentsia Coffee and Local Baked Goods
The café at the New Museum offers a range of culinary delights for visitors to enjoy. From a cup of artisanal Intelligentsia coffee to freshly baked goods sourced from local favorites like Café Grumpy, the café provides a cozy and inviting space to relax and refresh. Whether you’re craving a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, the café has you covered.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Kale Salads
In addition to its beverages and baked goods, the café also offers a selection of light meals. Grilled cheese sandwiches and kale salads are popular choices for visitors seeking a quick and delicious bite to eat. The café’s menu reflects its commitment to providing high-quality and locally sourced options that cater to a range of dietary preferences.
Time- or Attention-Challenged Visitors
Possible to Explore in 90 Minutes
Unlike larger museums that can easily require several hours to explore fully, the New Museum can be experienced in a shorter timeframe. With its straightforward layout and manageable size, it is possible to get a good sense of the collection and exhibits in approximately 90 minutes. This makes the museum a great option for visitors who are pressed for time but still want to immerse themselves in contemporary art.
Prioritize Intriguing Exhibits
To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to prioritize the exhibits that intrigue you the most. With a constantly changing array of art, each visit to the New Museum offers a unique opportunity to discover something new and exciting. By selecting the exhibits that align with your interests, you can ensure a personalized and enriching experience during your time at the museum.
Contact Information
Address: 235 Bowery, New York, New York 10002
Phone: +1-212-219-1222
Other Nearby Attractions
Hotels
If you’re visiting the New Museum and need a place to stay, there are several hotels in the vicinity. Some notable options include The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel, which offers gorgeous design and excellent restaurants, and the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown, known for its Yabu Pushelberg-designed rooms. The Standard High Line is another popular choice, offering stunning views and proximity to museums.
Activities
In addition to the New Museum, the Bowery neighborhood offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From art galleries and music venues to trendy boutiques and gourmet restaurants, there is something for everyone. Exploring the vibrant streets of the Lower East Side and SoHo is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems.
Restaurants
When it comes to dining options, the Bowery neighborhood has a diverse selection of restaurants to satisfy any craving. From upscale eateries to casual cafes, you’ll find a range of culinary delights to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for international cuisine, classic New York City dishes, or innovative fusion creations, the Bowery neighborhood has it all.
Shops
For shopping enthusiasts, the Bowery neighborhood offers a variety of shops and boutiques. From high-end fashion stores and independent designers to vintage shops and specialty stores, there is something to suit every style and taste. Exploring the local shops is a great way to find unique fashion pieces, home decor items, and gifts that reflect the artistic spirit of the neighborhood.
In conclusion, the New Museum of Contemporary Art offers a unique and immersive experience for art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. From its cutting-edge architecture to its ever-changing array of exhibits, the museum provides a glimpse into the contemporary art world and showcases the work of both established and emerging artists. With its dedication to championing lesser-known artists and its commitment to accessibility, the New Museum creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors. Whether you’re exploring the exhibits, browsing the gift shop, or enjoying a cup of coffee in the café, a visit to the New Museum is sure to inspire and ignite your passion for contemporary art.
