Ultimate guide to American Folk Art Museum

The American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) in New York City is a hidden gem for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts. This institution is dedicated to showcasing the work of self-taught artists and preserving the rich history of American folk and outsider art. From quilts and sculptures to paintings and wood carvings, the museum’s collection spans centuries and offers a fascinating look into the creativity of artists working outside formal traditions. Here’s the ultimate guide to the American Folk Art Museum, covering its history, collections, exhibitions, visitor information, and nearby attractions.

History of the American Folk Art Museum

• Founded: 1961
  • The museum was established in 1961 to promote the appreciation of traditional American folk art, with an emphasis on works created by self-taught artists. Over the years, the museum has expanded its focus to include contemporary works by outsider artists, making it one of the premier institutions in the country for this type of art.
• Expansion:
  • AFAM’s original location was on 53rd Street, next to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). However, after a few relocations and a financial crisis, the museum now operates out of its smaller, but intimate, location on Columbus Avenue at Lincoln Square.
• Mission:
  • The museum aims to preserve, exhibit, and celebrate folk and self-taught artists who operate outside traditional fine art institutions. It seeks to challenge conventional definitions of art and highlight the creativity found in communities across the U.S. and beyond.

The Collection

The American Folk Art Museum holds an extensive and diverse collection of artworks spanning from the 18th century to the present. These works reflect the values, stories, and culture of self-taught and outsider artists.

Key Collection Highlights

1. Quilts and Textiles
   • The museum is renowned for its exceptional collection of quilts, one of the most comprehensive in the country. These quilts reflect the cultural, social, and political narratives of American history, featuring intricate designs, vibrant colors, and personal stories. Highlights include the Susan Hoffman Quilt, a striking geometric quilt from the 19th century.
2. Portraiture
   • Early American folk portraiture is another cornerstone of the museum’s collection. These portraits, often painted by itinerant artists, provide a glimpse into the lives of individuals who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Ammi Phillips Portraits are particularly noteworthy, showing the artist’s skill at capturing both personality and detail.
3. Sculptures and Carvings
   • The museum showcases wood carvings, weathervanes, whirligigs, and other folk sculptures that highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of rural artists. Elijah Pierce’s wood carvings and William Edmondson’s stone sculptures are two standout artists in this medium.
4. Frakturs
   • Frakturs are a form of Pennsylvania German folk art, often created as birth and marriage certificates or religious texts. These brightly colored, highly decorative pieces offer insight into early American folk traditions.
5. Contemporary Outsider Art
   • The museum has embraced contemporary outsider artists, showcasing works by individuals who have had little or no formal art training but whose creations are vivid, expressive, and deeply personal. Notable pieces include works by Henry Darger, whose fantastical drawings and writings have become internationally recognized.
6. Religious and Spiritual Art
   • The museum’s collection of religious folk art includes objects and paintings used in personal devotion, as well as community and church settings. Retablos and santos from Latin American traditions, as well as Shaker furniture and artifacts, highlight the spiritual aspects of folk art.

Exhibitions at the American Folk Art Museum

AFAM hosts a range of temporary and rotating exhibitions that explore different aspects of folk and outsider art. Each exhibit is curated with the intent of illuminating the historical, cultural, and social significance of the works on display.

Notable Past Exhibitions

1. “Memory Palaces: Inside the Collection of Audrey B. Heckler”
   • This exhibition showcased works from one of the most important private collections of outsider art, featuring artists like Henry Darger, Martin Ramírez, and Bill Traylor.
2. “American Perspectives: Stories from the American Folk Art Museum Collection”
   • Celebrating the museum’s 60th anniversary, this exhibit presented a wide-ranging exploration of the museum’s permanent collection, highlighting the diverse stories and perspectives represented in folk and self-taught art.
3. “Morris Hirshfield Rediscovered”
   • A retrospective of Morris Hirshfield, a self-taught artist whose fantastical paintings attracted the attention of the Surrealists in the 1940s, this exhibit explored his unique visual language and craftsmanship.

Visiting the American Folk Art Museum

Location

• Address: 2 Lincoln Square (Columbus Avenue at 66th Street), New York, NY 10023
• The museum is located on the Upper West Side, close to the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. This makes it an ideal stop for anyone spending time in this cultural hub of Manhattan.

Admission

• Free Admission: The American Folk Art Museum is one of the few museums in New York City that offers free admission to all visitors. Donations are encouraged to help support its programs and exhibitions.

Hours

• Tuesday–Sunday: 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Closed on Mondays

Getting There

• Subway: The closest subway stop is 66th Street-Lincoln Center on the 1 line. The museum is also accessible from the A, B, C, and D lines at 59th Street-Columbus Circle.

Accessibility

• The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ramps and elevators available for easy navigation.

Things to Do Near the American Folk Art Museum

1. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
   • Description: Just a short walk from the museum, Lincoln Center is one of the world’s leading performing arts venues. It is home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic. Check the schedule for live performances, or simply stroll the beautiful plaza.
2. Central Park
   • Description: Located just a few blocks east of the museum, Central Park is the perfect spot for a post-museum walk. Visit iconic locations like the Sheep Meadow, The Mall, or Belvedere Castle.
3. Columbus Circle and Time Warner Center
   • Description: Columbus Circle is a bustling roundabout located at the southwestern corner of Central Park. The Time Warner Center features upscale shopping, dining, and even the famous Jazz at Lincoln Center.
4. Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
   • Description: Located at Columbus Circle, MAD focuses on contemporary art, craft, and design. It’s a great complement to the folk art at AFAM, offering a different perspective on creativity and craftsmanship.

Educational Programs and Events

The American Folk Art Museum offers a variety of educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages. These include:

1. Family Programs
   • Hands-on workshops, storytelling sessions, and other activities tailored to younger visitors and families. These programs often connect to current exhibitions, offering an immersive learning experience.
2. Lectures and Talks
   • The museum frequently hosts guest speakers, curators, and scholars who discuss topics related to folk and outsider art. These events offer deeper insights into the historical and cultural contexts of the works on display.
3. Concerts and Performances
   • AFAM occasionally holds musical performances in its galleries, with a focus on folk and traditional music genres. These concerts provide a unique way to experience the museum’s collection.

Gift Shop

The museum’s gift shop is a must-visit for unique, art-inspired souvenirs. It offers a wide selection of folk art-inspired merchandise, including prints, books, handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and decorative objects. Many of the items are made by contemporary artisans, reflecting the museum’s mission of supporting self-taught artists.

Conclusion

The American Folk Art Museum is a testament to the creativity and artistic spirit found in communities across America and beyond. With its rich collection of folk and outsider art, free admission, and central location, it’s a must-visit for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore the vibrant world of self-taught artists. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate details of a 19th-century quilt or discovering the bold visions of a contemporary outsider artist, the museum offers a unique and inspiring experience in the heart of New York City.