The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) in New York City is a dynamic institution dedicated to exploring contemporary art, craft, and design. Located at the southwest corner of Central Park at Columbus Circle, MAD celebrates the creative process and focuses on the intersection of traditional craft techniques and modern art, design, and technology. With its innovative exhibitions, hands-on workshops, and cutting-edge events, MAD is a must-visit for anyone interested in art that blurs the lines between function, craft, and aesthetics.
Here’s the ultimate guide to the Museum of Arts and Design, covering its history, collections, exhibitions, visitor information, and nearby attractions.
History of the Museum of Arts and Design
- Founded: 1956
- The museum was originally established as the Museum of Contemporary Crafts by Aileen Osborn Webb, a champion of American craftsmanship. Its mission was to promote and preserve traditional craft techniques while also embracing contemporary innovations in the field of design.
- Evolution and Name Change:
- In 1986, the museum changed its name to the American Craft Museum, reflecting a growing focus on American-made crafts. In 2002, it was renamed the Museum of Arts and Design to better capture its expanded focus on the intersections between art, craft, and design.
- New Home:
- In 2008, MAD moved to its current location at 2 Columbus Circle. The building underwent a major renovation, designed by architect Brad Cloepfil, which modernized its façade while creating gallery spaces that are as innovative and striking as the art displayed inside.
The Collection
MAD’s collection consists of more than 3,000 objects, representing a diverse range of materials, techniques, and styles. The museum’s focus is on contemporary art that explores craftsmanship in a modern context.
Key Collection Highlights
- Ceramics
- MAD boasts an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional ceramics, showcasing the material’s versatility and the creative potential of clay. Works by artists such as Peter Voulkos, Betty Woodman, and Ken Price highlight innovations in the field.
- Glass Art
- The museum has a strong emphasis on glass art, with a collection featuring both fine art pieces and functional designs. Artists such as Dale Chihuly, Toshiko Takaezu, and Tessa Clegg are well-represented, showing the evolution of glassblowing and sculptural glasswork.
- Jewelry and Metalwork
- MAD’s jewelry collection spans both fine and studio jewelry, highlighting handmade works by artisans who push the boundaries of design and materials. The collection features pieces by leading contemporary jewelers such as Robert Ebendorf and Ramona Solberg.
- Textiles and Fiber Art
- Fiber and textile art are key components of the museum’s collection. Works include hand-woven textiles, fiber sculptures, and experimental fashion designs by artists such as Sheila Hicks, Lenore Tawney, and Nick Cave.
- Furniture and Design Objects
- MAD’s furniture collection ranges from functional design objects to avant-garde pieces that challenge traditional notions of utility. Notable works include Wendell Castle’s sculptural furniture and innovative designs by George Nakashima.
- Sculpture and Mixed Media
- The museum’s collection also includes contemporary sculptures that incorporate a wide range of materials, from wood and metal to recycled objects. Artists like Judy Chicago and Betye Saar use mixed media to comment on social, political, and cultural themes.
Exhibitions at the Museum of Arts and Design
MAD is known for its rotating temporary exhibitions, which often explore cutting-edge topics in contemporary art, craft, and design. The museum features exhibitions that highlight both established and emerging artists, pushing boundaries and redefining craft in the modern world.
Notable Past Exhibitions
- “Burke Prize: The Future of Craft”
- This annual exhibition showcases finalists for the Burke Prize, an award given to emerging artists working in traditional craft media such as ceramics, fiber, and glass. The exhibition offers a glimpse into the future of contemporary craft and design.
- “45 Stories in Jewelry: 1947 to Now”
- This exhibition explored the evolution of contemporary jewelry over seven decades, featuring works from the museum’s collection. It highlighted the role of jewelry as an artistic medium and a form of personal expression.
- “Surface/Depth: The Decorative After Miriam Schapiro”
- This exhibition examined the legacy of feminist artist Miriam Schapiro, who was a key figure in the Pattern and Decoration movement. It explored how contemporary artists continue to blur the lines between fine art and craft.
- “Fashion Jewelry: The Collection of Barbara Berger”
- Featuring over 450 pieces of couture jewelry, this exhibition showcased the stunning collection of Barbara Berger, highlighting the artistry and craftsmanship behind statement jewelry from the mid-20th century to today.
- “The World of Anna Sui”
- This exhibition offered a deep dive into the work of renowned fashion designer Anna Sui, showcasing her eclectic and bold designs that merge vintage and contemporary influences.
Visiting the Museum of Arts and Design
Location
- Address: 2 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019
- MAD is located at Columbus Circle, at the southwest corner of Central Park, offering visitors easy access to other major cultural and shopping destinations in the area.
Admission
- General Admission:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors: $14
- Students: $12
- Free for members and children under 18
- Pay-What-You-Wish Admission:
- Thursday evenings from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Hours
- Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (pay-what-you-wish from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM)
- Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Closed on holidays: Check the website for details.
Getting There
- Subway: The closest subway station is 59th Street-Columbus Circle, served by the A, B, C, D, and 1 lines. It’s just a short walk from the museum.
- Bus: Multiple bus lines, including the M5, M7, M10, and M104, stop nearby.
Accessibility
- The museum is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators available for visitors with mobility impairments. There are also programs in place to accommodate visitors with hearing or vision impairments.
Things to Do Near the Museum of Arts and Design
- Central Park
- Description: Just steps from MAD, Central Park offers countless activities, from scenic strolls and picnicking to visiting iconic locations such as The Pond, Bethesda Terrace, and the Central Park Zoo.
- Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
- Description: A short walk from MAD, Lincoln Center is one of the world’s premier performing arts venues. You can catch performances by the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, or New York Philharmonic.
- Columbus Circle and Time Warner Center
- Description: Columbus Circle is a bustling hub with shopping and dining options. The Time Warner Center houses luxury shops and restaurants, including Per Se and Masa, two of the city’s most exclusive dining spots.
- Carnegie Hall
- Description: Just a few blocks from the museum, Carnegie Hall is one of the most famous concert venues in the world. Check the schedule for live performances ranging from classical music to contemporary acts.
- The Shops at Columbus Circle
- Description: Located within the Time Warner Center, this upscale shopping destination offers a mix of high-end retailers and casual dining options. It’s a perfect stop for some retail therapy after visiting the museum.
Educational Programs and Workshops
MAD offers a wide range of educational programs for visitors of all ages, from children and families to artists and educators. These programs help deepen visitors’ understanding of art, craft, and design while providing hands-on learning opportunities.
- Studio Programs
- These workshops allow visitors to learn from master artisans in fields such as ceramics, jewelry making, textiles, and more. Participants can explore new materials and techniques under expert guidance.
- Family Programs
- Designed for children and their families, these programs offer interactive, hands-on workshops that encourage creativity and collaboration. Children can experiment with different craft techniques while learning about art and design.
- Artist Residencies
- MAD hosts resident artists who work in an open studio space within the museum. Visitors can engage with the artists, watch them at work, and ask questions about their process. This residency program gives a behind-the-scenes look at contemporary craft and design.
- Docent Tours
- Docent-led tours are available throughout the week, offering in-depth insights into current exhibitions and the museum’s collection. These tours are free with admission and provide a great way to engage with the artwork.
Gift Shop
MAD’s gift shop is an art lover’s paradise, offering unique, handcrafted items created by contemporary designers and artisans. The shop features jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and home decor, as well as exhibition catalogues, art books, and design-inspired gifts. Many of the products are one-of-a-kind or limited edition, making it the perfect place to find a distinctive souvenir.
Conclusion
The Museum of Arts and Design offers a fresh and innovative perspective on contemporary art, craft, and design. With its diverse collection, rotating exhibitions, and hands-on educational programs, MAD provides a rich and engaging experience for visitors. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or simply an admirer of beautifully crafted objects, MAD is a must-visit destination in New York City. Its central location at Columbus Circle also makes it an ideal stop during a day of exploring the nearby cultural landmarks and attractions.
