It's been open two years and New Yorkers still can't stop raving about the new home of the American Folk Art Museum, now located on the same block as the under-renovation Museum of Modern Art. Designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects this gorgeous, ultra-modern boutique museum has been called by House & Garden no less than the city's greatest new museum and best work of architecture since Frank Lloyd Wright built the Guggenheim in 1959, while New York magazine called it "brilliant" and "a tour de force." Not only is it a stunning structure, but it also heralds American folk art into the top echelon of museum-worthy art.
The new building quadruples the museum's exhibit space to 30,000 square feet (2787 sq. m). The modified open-plan interior features an extraordinary collection of traditional works from the 18th century to the self-taught artists and craftspeople of the present, reflecting the breadth and vitality of the American folk-art tradition. A splendid variety of quilts, in particular, makes the textiles collection the museum's most popular. Look for "The Perfect Game: America Looks at Baseball," running from January 24-June 17, 2004. The book- and gift shop is outstanding, filled with one-of-a-kind objects.
The original Lincoln Center location is now the Eva and Morris Feld Gallery, which displays art from the permanent collection, including new acquisitions. There's also a second gift gallery here.
45 W. 53rd St.Phone: 212/265-1040.Open: Tues-Thurs and Sat-Sun 10am-6pm; Fri 10am-8pm.Admission $9 adults, $5 seniors and students, free for children under 12, free to all Fri 6-8pm.Subway: E, V to Fifth Ave.Eva and Morris Feld Gallery: 2 Lincoln Sq. (Columbus Ave. between 65th and 66th sts., across from Lincoln Center). tel. 212/595-9533. Free admission. Tues-Sun 11am-7:30pm; Mon 11am-6pm. Subway: 1, 9 to 66th St.