Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Embarks on Major Expansion and Reinvents Its Approach to Art
Renovations and Expansion
The iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is undergoing a major expansion and renovation project that will close its doors for four months, from June 15 to October 21, 2023. The project will add 40,000 square feet of new gallery space, allowing MoMA to display an additional 1,000 artworks, bringing its total collection to approximately 2,500 pieces.
A New Approach to Displaying Art
MoMA is also overhauling its approach to showcasing its collection, with a focus on creating a more inclusive and experimental art space. The museum will stop dividing works according to media, allowing paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and architecture to share the same spaces. This interdisciplinary approach will encourage visitors to view art from new perspectives and make connections between different artistic disciplines.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
MoMA is committed to increasing the representation of women, African American, Asian, and Latino artists in its collection and exhibitions. The museum has launched a partnership with the Studio Museum in Harlem to collaborate on exhibitions and highlight the work of underrepresented artists.
New Exhibitions and Programs
The expanded MoMA will feature a variety of new exhibitions and programs, including:
- A summer show at MoMA PS1 in Queens, featuring the work of Kenyan figurative artist Michael Armitage.
- A survey of Latin American art, showcasing the rich and diverse artistic traditions of the region.
- A retrospective of the work of Betye Saar, a 92-year-old African American artist known for her exploration of African tribal mysticism, history, and nostalgia.
- A new education platform, offering a range of programs and resources for students, educators, and the public.
- A studio for live performances and programming, providing a space for artists to engage with visitors and experiment with new artistic forms.
- Street-level galleries that are free to the public, making MoMA’s collection more accessible to a wider audience.
A Revitalized Art Destination
Upon its reopening, MoMA will be a revitalized art destination, offering visitors a more inclusive, experimental, and diverse experience. The museum’s commitment to showcasing a wider range of artistic voices and perspectives will enrich the cultural landscape of New York City and inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts.
Benefits of the Expansion
- Increased gallery space for displaying more artworks.
- A more inclusive and experimental approach to showcasing art.
- Greater representation of women, African American, Asian, and Latino artists.
- New exhibitions and programs that engage and educate visitors.
- A revitalized art destination that fosters creativity and cultural exchange.