At Columbus Circle in Manhattan, the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) explores how artists turn materials into contemporary and historical works of craft, art and design. Its galleries span four floors, with exhibitions that can include interactive activities, projection art and carefully arranged displays. You may also find artist studios on an upper floor, though access and artist availability can vary. Leave time for the ground-floor shop, where the selection includes distinctive objects made by emerging artists.
A museum for craft and design
The Museum of Arts and Design opened in New York in 1956 as the Museum of Contemporary Crafts. Its focus remains on the creative work that happens when people shape materials, with exhibitions spanning craft, art and design across historical and contemporary work.
The subject matter reaches from ceramics, furniture and fiber art to metalsmithing, fashion and jewelry. Exhibitions can bring traditional making techniques together with digital processes, so the materials and how they are worked are part of the story. Displays change, and the works on view depend on the current exhibitions.
Galleries, studios and learning spaces
Exhibition galleries occupy four floors. Some displays are arranged with mannequins, light and projection, while interactive shows can invite visitors to draw or color. Take time to notice how the presentation shapes your view of the materials and objects.
Artist studios and educational spaces are on an upper floor. On some visits, an artist may be working in a studio and available to speak about the process, but studio access is not guaranteed. Ask the staff which levels are open before heading upstairs.
The museum also has a 150-seat auditorium used for lectures, symposiums, films and performances, as well as a Center for the Study of Jewelry. The ground-floor shop sells design-led objects, including work by emerging artists. Its changing selection can include jewelry, ceramics, bags and toys.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Museum of Arts and Design?
It is at 2 Columbus Circle in Manhattan, New York City.
What can you see at the museum?
The four floors of galleries present changing exhibitions in craft, art and design, including subjects such as ceramics, textiles, jewelry and furniture.
Can you visit the artist studios?
Studios are on an upper floor, but access and artist availability can vary. Ask staff which areas are open during your visit.
Does the museum have a shop?
Yes. The ground-floor shop sells design objects, including jewelry, ceramics, bags and toys.
