Visit the MoMA
in New York

MoMA History

The Museum of Modern Art was born from a bold desire to counter the conservatism of the Metropolitan Museum. In 1929, three female patrons, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, Lillie P. Bliss, and Mary Quinn Sullivan, joined forces to create a progressive alternative. They wanted to give New Yorkers direct access to emerging artistic movements, far from the rigid academic traditions of the time. This revolutionary project aimed to democratize modern art.

The first director, Alfred Barr, played a crucial role in structuring the collection. His visionary approach defined the museum's departments, integrating design, architecture, and film with the fine arts from the start. This open-mindedness allowed the MoMA to quickly become a global reference for understanding modern and contemporary art. He established the curatorial foundations still used today.

The inaugural exhibition at the Heckscher Building was a major event that already featured masters like Cézanne and Van Gogh. This opening raised essential funds for the construction of the current building. Since then, the museum has continued to expand and enrich its collections, becoming the guardian of an artistic history that changed the world. It now owns more than 200,000 works.

What to see at the MoMA

The must-see works at the MoMA attract millions of visitors every year. Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night remains the absolute icon, with a permanent queue forming in front of it. Next to it, Pablo Picasso's Guernica imposes its dramatic power, reminding us of art's political engagement. These two canvases are the emotional pillars of the visit.

The museum also excels in abstract art and pop art. The works of Jackson Pollock, with his energetic splashes, illustrate the revolution of American abstract expressionism. Later, Andy Warhol transformed consumption into art, with his Campbell's soups and Marilyn Monroes. These major artists, along with Dalí, form the beating heart of the permanent collection. They define the visual identity of the 20th century.

Beyond painting, the MoMA possesses one of the largest collections of design and architecture in the world. From Eames chairs to Apple devices, the museum shows how art influences our daily lives. The hidden library, with its 300,000 books, is an immense resource for researchers. This diversity makes the MoMA a complete place to understand the aesthetics of the 20th and 21st centuries, including film.

Practical info and visit

Located on 53rd Street in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is ideally situated for a combined visit with Bryant Park. To avoid the crowds, it is advisable to arrive at opening time or choose the free MoMA Friday evening (from 4 PM to 8 PM). However, queues can be very long during this slot, so plan ahead or book your ticket for priority access. The museum is accessible by several subway lines, notably the 5 Av / 53 St stations.

The visit lasts on average 2 to 3 hours to cover the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. Don't forget to take a break at the MoMA Tea Room or the rooftop café. It's a perfect moment of relaxation to digest the artistic emotions. The museum is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, with elevators and dedicated services.

Finally, don't leave without exploring the MoMA Design Store located at the entrance. It offers unique objects, books, and souvenirs related to the exhibited artists. It's the perfect place to bring a piece of New York design home. Whether you're an art connoisseur or a novice, the MoMA offers an enriching experience accessible to all.