American Folk Art Museum - New York City, NY

Address:45 W 53rd St.
New York, New York
Tel: (212) 265-1040

The brilliantly designed American Folk Art Museum inspires imagination both inside and out. In the heart of New York since 1961, in a brilliantly designed 30,000 square foot, 85 feet tall building, the American Folk Art Museum truly captures the heart of American culture. Showcasing the diverse heritage, creativity, community and shared national values in over 5000 pieces of artwork spanning three centuries, the American Folk Art Museum is sure to be an inspiration to all visitors.

Featuring paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and three-dimensional objects from the 18th to the present, the collections and exhibits hold remarkable cultural clues into American history and perspective.

On continuous view at the American Folk Art Museum is the "Folk Art Revealed" exhibit, featuring four universal themes: utility, community, individuality, and symbolism, giving visitors a deeper understanding of folk art and its role in our lives. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum features temporary exhibitions showcasing a variety of artworks from American rugs, 20th century quilts, woodcarvings, papercuts and carousel animals, just to mention a few. Be sure not to miss the Contemporary Centre at the museum, which since 1997 has given self-taught American artists a place to house their works where they can be appreciated, studied, and exhibited.

Each Friday, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, the public is invited to explore the museum's galleries free of charge, have a drink in the cafe, and enjoy live music.

The museum shop features an extensive collection of catalogs and books on folk and decorative art. There are also delightful gifts handcrafted in true folk tradition such as jewelry, frames, toys, and cards. For those who get hungry, stop by the museum café for a light snack.

Located in the centre of the city at 6th Ave. and 53rd St., transportation is easy. Take the B, D, F, V trains to Rockefeller Centre and walk north, or take the E, V trains to 53rd St. and walk west. Alternatively take busses 1, 2, 3, 4 along 5th and head west, or take busses 5, 6, 7 along 6th until you hit 53rd.

Folk art captures the heart of American culture. It speaks to diversity of heritage and shared national experience, individual creativity, and community values. The museum's collection of more than 4,000 artworks span three centuries of American visual expression, from unflinching portraits, dazzling quilts, and muscular weathervanes to potent works by contemporary self-taught artists in a variety of mediums.