Posts Tagged ‘Moma’

Outdoor and Indoor Museum Exhibits to See This Winter

While most entertainment is shut down in New York City, museums provide a welcome diversion that’s both socially distanced and enlightening. Two museums invite you to view their current feature installation from outdoors, free of charge. Four invite you in from the cold to view exhibits that will not last as long.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts

http://www.bronxmuseum.org

#SeeMeBronx

Through May 24

Bronx Museum of the Arts - Installation Image by Becca Guzzo

Celebrating the Bronx Museum of the Arts’ 50th anniversary, #SeeMeBronx is an interactive project about visibility, intersectionality and identity. Visitor participation is encouraged and all you need to do is write a question about any of the three topics on a sign and take a selfie of yourself with it. You then post your selfie and tag @bronxmuseum with the hashtag #seemebronx. The Museum creates a changing selection of submissions, which are then included on the installation on the outside of the museum.

The Jewish Museum

https://thejewishmuseum.org

“All the Stars in the Sky Have the Same Face”

Through February 2021

Lawerence Weiner, All the Stars Have the Same Face. The Jewish Museum, NY. Photo: Liz Ligon.

On the museum’s Fifth Avenue façade, you’ll see the building-wide banner “All the Stars in the Sky Have the Same Face” by New York City artist Lawrence Weiner. The two-story red, white and blue banner imparts a plea for shared humanity. The banner was born out of Weiner’s many years of reading messages on walls all over New York and he views these walls, like the walls of the museum, as a canvas for communicating important messages. The sentence itself derives from a Yiddish saying that Weiner has reconceived in response to anti-Semitism, xenophobia and racism, writing the words in English, Hebrew and Arabic to emphasize inclusiveness.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

www.metmuseum.org

“About Time: Fashion and Duration”

Through February 7

The Metropolitan Museum of Art - About Time: Fashion and Duration

In a sleek serpentine display of black silhouettes, mirrors and a pendulum that ticks off the years and moments of a timeline, two rooms of paired designs show the influence of past creations on later ones. Each creation is displayed in black to emphasize comparability. Contrasts in shape, material and decoration are discussed with many earlier designs looking as fresh as their more recent counterparts. Designers include Cristóbal Balenciaga, Gabrielle Chanel, Christian Dior, Tom Ford, Hubert de Givenchy, Christian Dior, Gabrielle Chanel, Alexander McQueen and other fashion-world cognoscenti. Timed tickets are required, and tickets are limited.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

https://www.guggenheim.org

“Countryside, The Future”

Through February 15

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum - Countryside, The Future

Heavy on text and environmental and cultural references, “Countryside, The Future” lines the entire spiral of the museum, focusing on differences and evolutions in city and country living over the years. Even more relevant today than when the exhibit first opened in February 2020 (and then closed due to the pandemic), the contrasts of country concerns with the problems of the urban life spark a growing contemplation of our current situation. Whereas the movement to the country might have seemed to be gradual and remote, isolationist, or perhaps more of an environmental or political reactiveness last year, the outflow now holds extended relevance and invites closer reading of the dense texts that discuss the forces, ecosystems and other motivators to the present. The exhibit was organized by Dutch architect and theorist Rem Koolhaas with a team of researchers and was five years in the making.

MoMA The Museum of Modern Art

www.moma.org

“Handles”

Through February 2021

MoMA The Museum of Modern Art - Handles - Photo By: Dennis Doorly

“Handles,” a site-specific commission by Korean artist Haegue Yang for MoMA’s Marron Atrium, features six sculptures with a variety of geometries that combine with light and sound. As conceived by Yang, Handles are points of attachment and material catalysts for movement and change. Some clearly represent door handles, some move with tones of bells or rattles. A subtle background of bird sounds recorded in the DMZ between North and South Korea during the 2018 summit adds a haunting soundtrack. The effect is a sensory experience with mixed-in historical references.

Whitney Museum of American Arts

http://whitney.org/collections

“Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art, 1925-1945”

Through January. 31

Whitney Museum of American Arts - Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art, 1925-1945

A striking exhibit of three Mexican muralists alongside their American contemporaries, “Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art, 1925-1945” presents approximately 200 works by 60 artists. Pieces by Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros acknowledge the influence of these painters on art in the United States during the twenty-year period. Of particular note is the reproduction of Diego Rivera’s controversial mural “Man at the Crossroads” removed from Rockefeller Center due to the inclusion of Vladimir Lenin. Also mounted are never-before-shown sketches of this giant mural.

Much like the city that never sleeps, online never sleeps either, so you can tour these museums virtually as well.

Google Arts & Culture

This non-profit initiative by Google Arts & Culture is a compendium of NYC museums and cultural institutions around the world available 24/7 with virtual tours. https://artsandculture.google.com

Six New York City Museum Exhibits to Visit This Fall – Brooklyn and Manhattan

In August, Governor Cuomo gave the go-ahead to museums to open their doors. With new protocols in place and limited time slots, the experience is pure delight and a great activity for colder weather.

Take note of each museum’s policy for mask wearing and reservations and book ahead to secure your preferred visit date. Many also require a temperature check at the door.

New exhibits are planned for the fall – be sure to check each museum’s website for details. Brooklyn and Manhattan are definitely NOT ghost towns!

The Brooklyn Museum: Studio 54: Night Magic exhibit

The Brooklyn Museum

The museum’s fabulous Studio 54: Night Magic exhibit had barely opened when the pandemic closed the museum down. If you lived through the disco era of the 70s and 80s, this is a don’t-miss. The outfits, the music and the scene are all there. You might even want to break out your platforms and glitter for this one – you’ll be dancing through the rooms here.

The Metropolitan Museum

The grande dame of New York City art museums celebrates its 150th anniversary year with the Making the Met: 1870-2020 exhibit. This “greatest hits” exhibit is like viewing the museum as a snapshot. The exhibit limits capacity at all times, and you can head directly up the great staircase towards the exhibit and likely not encounter anyone else en route. If you become a Met member, you’ll have special access through the ground level door and up via a direct elevator.

Making the Met: 1870-2020 exhibit

If the exhibit whets your appetite for more, roam the other galleries which are wondrously (and a bit eerily) empty. Plan enough time to go to the Cantor Rooftop for the Lattice Detour exhibit by Héctor Zamora, a fascinating (and timely) interpretation of the concept of a wall. It’s open-air and the elevator to reach it requires only a quick trip with capacity controlled by an attendant at all times.

Whitney Museum of American Art

Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art Mexican exhibit

The best way to view this museum and avoid the crowds is to start at the top floor and work your way down. Take advantage of the outdoor patios on each floor and use the open-air steps connecting them. On each floor, the galleries are relatively empty except for what’s currently “on,” like the über-popular Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art Mexican.  Absolutely don’t miss the first floor exhibit, hidden on the east side of the building. It changes frequently but is always thought provoking. No one seems to know this gallery is there, so you’re pretty much guaranteed uncrowded viewing and contemplation. Note that The Whitney books up its limited time slots very quickly.

The Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim

The Guggenheim’s Countryside: The Future by Rem Koolhaas was sadly postponed by the pandemic and part of the outdoor portion was removed.  The exhibit is still solid, though, and the museum capacity is limited by time. The museum makes it easy for you to know how to view in safety. You can only head in one direction and arrows are indicated showing how to enter and exit a gallery. The arrows are also placed on staircases for exiting the museum after ascending the spiral.  Should you not want to walk the stairs, the elevators are closely monitored. Another plus: many of the restrooms are single person only.

New-York Historical Society

Rock & Roll Revolution exhibit

This repository of New York City-related collections and exhibits doesn’t usually get crowded, with the exception of its special exhibits. The current feature is about Bill Graham, the music promoter most responsible for the “Rock & Roll Revolution” begun in the 60s. You’ll want to spend a fair amount of time here, reading about the evolution of the rock concert scene in New York City and listening to the music tracks. You’re handed an audio guide that’s as contactless as it could be. No touch is required to activate — it turns on automatically when you approach an annotated part of the exhibit. Entry is timed and the exhibit is limited to a maximum of 17 people at any one time. For a sense of what it’s like to be back in a movie theater, the museum screens two films daily in a huge, vastly socially distanced setting. I felt comfortable watching the history of NYC film with seats all around me taped off and people respecting each other’s space. The museum also has an outdoor area showing the borough-by-borough response to the pandemic through photography and poetry.

MOMA

Handles by Haegue Yang exhibit

Plan for both indoor and outdoor art time at MOMA with their smart timed entry system. The museum adds an extra layer of safety as you must have a temperature scan before you can enter. The spacious galleries don’t feel crowded and there’s plenty to keep you busy and away from others as you explore.  Permanent collections mix with feature exhibits like the re-opening Handles by Haegue Yang, a full-scale riot of color and shape.  Escalators connect the floors so it’s easy to stay socially distanced as you travel around. For efficient navigation, start on the top floor and work your way down. Once on the ground floor, head to the sub-gallery for the current installation. I’m convinced no one knows this part of the museum exists. Then, take the escalator up to the outdoor sculpture garden where scattered seating will allow you to chill and safely appreciate the return of museums in Manhattan.

16 Sweet Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in New York City

Haven’t figured out what to do yet for Valentitne’s Day? Here are 16 intriguing ideas.

Make a Reservation

Rice & Gold, Dale Talde’s new restaurant in the Hotel 50 Bowery is offering a special Asian Fusion Valentine’s day pairing dinner. Mixing up Asian flavors with sweet treats, wine and specially curated cocktails, the dinner showcases the intriguing food combinations that fans have loved since chef’s first restaurant in Park Slope.   https://www.riceandgoldnyc.com/

Another Asian favorite has created a special off-menu Valentine’s Day evening. Mixian noodles, Little Tong Noodle Shop’s Yunnanese specialty, combine with choices like ghost chicken and beef tartare, all guaranteed to add significant spice to your palate and your evening.  For a sweet balance, the evening will finish with a special dessert and a glass of sake.  Three seatings only on Valentine’s Day.  https://www.littletong.com/

My vote for “bringing sexy back,” Zuma is offering three omakase options for Valentine’s Day, showing off their top-notch sushi and Japanese izakaya dishes. Diners will begin with a glass of Champagne and finish with a romantic surprise dessert.  If you’re one of the couples to book the restaurant’s three private rooms overlooking the main dining room, a private chef will create a very personalized experience with wine and sake pairings. Extend your night in one of the ultra-romantic booths in the lounge and listen to tunes spun by a live DJ.  https://www.zumarestaurant.com/zuma-landing/new-york/en/welcome

Passing through Grand Central Terminal? Agern, the Scandinavian import with noma heritage will give you reason to miss your train with a special red-toned menu for two (think: radishes, beef heart tartare, beets, blank currants and more).  http://agernrestaurant.com/

The iconic New York restaurant Gotham Bar and Grill will pair jazz by the Gabrielle Gorman Quartet with a special dinner on Valentine’s Day. As part of the romantic evening, the restaurant will offer two varieties of their signature house-made bonbons: a Taittinger Rose Bonbon made with Taittinger Champagne and the Chocolate Lovers’ Box, a selection of bonbons and housemade chocolate bars appropriately named “intense, ““passion,” and “wild” for Valentine’s Day. www.gothambarandgrill.com.

A retro favorite for the 21st century, The Empire Diner beckons with a special menu from Executive Chef Justin Nuebeck. The highlight of the Valentine’s Day evening is a 12-layer chocolate Sweetheart Cake complete with icing message (call ahead to have yours personalized). http://www.empire-diner.com/

Dessert also stars at newcomer DaDong with a special five-course menu with the restaurant’s acclaimed Peking duck, geoduck clams, and squid ink soup. Dessert is a chocolate heart dessert branded with “DaDong Loves You.” http://www.dadongny.com/

The Wayfarer, around the corner from Carnegie Hall, hits all the right romantic notes on Valentine’s Day with a special menu that includes foie gras, caviar, lobster, rack of lamb, and truffles.  For a sweet finish, three desserts with red highlights are offered: red velvet cake truffles, passionfruit Pavlova with red berry sorbet, and hazelnut chocolate mousse with strawberry coulis. http://www.thewayfarernyc.com/

Food and More

Nicoletta invites couples to a “Pizza Class for Lovers.” You’ll start with some Prosecco to get the inspiration following, followed by snacks, the class itself and then a pizza dinner with beer and wine. How fun is that!  http://nicolettapizza.com/new_york/

Want a broader selection of shareable cooking experiences for Valentine’s Day? The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) invites you to a Valentine’s Day Dinner Date where you can choose to learn to make an aphrodisiacal meal of grilled oysters, rack of lamb, molten chocolate cake and special swoon-worthy cocktails. https://recreational.ice.edu/Courses/Detail/16078

Perhaps you’re more in the mood for dinner and a “love” movie?  Check out the Nitehawk Cinema for their Love Series during the month of February. You’ll dine and cuddle at the same time. https://nitehawkcinema.com/williamsburg/film-series/love/

And Now for Something Completely Different

Opt to join the frenzy surrounding the second movie installment of the sexiest book series in recent years, “Fifty Shades Freed.” The Gregory Hotel is offering a “Fifty Shades of Gregory” package for Valentine’s evening for a staycation or escape with Champagne, streaming service via Google Chrome to watch the previous Fifty Shades of Grey, a signature Gregory Do Not Disturb tie to take home, Gregory candle by Apotheke to help set the mood, and a passion-inspiring handcuffs bracelet. “Mr. Gregory will see you now.” https://www.thegregoryhotelnewyork.com

The Shakespeare at The William brings Burlesque performer Rosie Cheeks to Manhattan in a dinner-show evening. The evening’s special tasting menu provides equally seductive moves with lobster, lamb, truffles and chocolate on the menu. https://www.theshakespearenyc.com/

Serious culture lovers should quickly book the after-hours Valentine Tours at MOMA, the Museum of Modern Art.  With two scheduled small group tours, you’ll begin your evening exploration of the museum with a candlelit wine reception and hors d’oeuvres or dessert, depending on the time slot selected. Hurry, these will book quickly. The museum will stay open just for you on this special evening. https://www.moma.org/calendar/events/4086

Theatrically, Sweeney Todd www.sweeneytoodnyc.comis where you want to be for Valentine’s Day. Special for the holiday, “Angels Above, Devils Below” cake will be served in the pie shop along with sparkling rose to toast your sweetie.  Don’t’ worry, you can still order a meat pie as well. www.sweeneytoodnyc.com.

Show your love to the world by renewing your vows in Times Square.  On the iconic red steps by the TKTS Booth at 47th Street, the open ceremony invites all lovers to come together on Valentine’s Day at 6pm.  The celebration of love is free to all. www.TimesSqu

Post-Easter Activities in Manhattan: Car Show, Egg Hunt, Gauguin and Broadway

Despite the chilly weather, Easter marks the start of some pretty wonderful New York City events this year.

New York Auto ShowIf you love cars, this is the time to get into gear.  The New York City International Auto Show runs through Sunday April 27.  This year’s show has a number of showstoppers with a wide range of electric cars, the 50th anniversary Mustang cars, and the 25th anniversary Miatas.  The second generation Rolls Royce Ghost is a stunner as are the new Mercedes-Benz C Class and BMW four-door 4 Series, both due to arrive in the US later this year.  You can also take a test drive over an off-road course with Jeep (Camp Jeep Outdoor Off Roading Ride Along), shoot a selfie with Nissan for a chance to win a free car, and enjoy other pop-up contests.  The show is an annual favorite and takes place at the Jacob Javits Center, 11th Avenue between 34th and 40th streets, in Manhattan.  Show hours are 10am-10pm through Saturday and 10am-7pm on Sunday.  Tickets can be purchased online at www.autoshowny.com.

Fabrage EggsIf you missed the Big Faberge Easter Egg hunt that took place over the past couple of weeks throughout New York City, you still have a chance to see all the eggs in one giant nest this week.  Visit Rockefeller Center, with your camera, and you’ll see the 282 eggs that made for a great scavenger hunt high and low in all five boroughs.  If you’d like one for your very own, you can bid on the Great Egg auction at www.paddle8.com, with all proceeds going to charity.  Download The Big Egg Hunt app or go online to www.thebigegghunt.org for more details.  Books of all the eggs are sold at Saks Fifth Avenue’s pop-up egg shop.

Moma ExhibitMOMA’s Gauguin: Metamorphoses exhibit is in full swing, now through June 8.  The artist’s paintings from 1889 through his death in 1903 displays rare prints and transfer drawings related to his better-known paintings.  Exhibit is located on the sixth floor of the museum. Ticket lines can be long, but the exhibit is worth it. 11 West 53rd Street, Manhattan, 212.708.9400. www.moma.org, The Museum of Modern Art.

Plays on Broadway in New YorkAnd, for those of you who want to be “in the know” about the theater scene before the Tony’s (Sunday, June 8 this year at 8pm), there’s a crop of interesting shows worth seeing.  Some of my favorite plays are “Of Mice and Men” starring the prolific actor James Franco with his apt sidekick Lennie, played by Chris O’Dowd of Bridesmaids fame. At the Longacre Theater, 220 West 48th Street. Tickets via Telecharge, or 212.239.6200.

Also, intriguing is The Realistic Jones, an odd but thought-provoking show with Marisa Tomei, Toni Collette, and Tracy Letts. At the Lyceum Theatre, 149 West 45th Street.  Tickets via Telecharge, or 212.239.6200.  If you prefer musicals, “Cabaret” will give you a hearty Willkomen at the Kit Kat Club at Studio 54.  The revival of the revival features one of its previous headliners, Alan Cumming, as Emcee.  Studio 42, 254 West 54th Street. Tickets through Roundabout,  or 212.719.1300. Also designed to envelop you in a musical haze is Audra McDonald’s one-woman depiction of Billie Holidayas Lady Day in her final days at the Emerson’s Bar and Grill.  Circle in the Square Theatre, 235 West 50th Street. Tickets through Telecharge, or 212.239.6200. For all listings, visit www.playbill.com.

Valentine’s Day Dining Choices – Manhattan

Manhattan is teeming with great Valentine’s Day dining options.  My suggestion?  Grab a reservation, pick up some flowers, and consider a great card and small gift as well.  A perfect evening that’s priceless, although not without a price.

For the 14th of February, take a look at 14 of these delicious and varied choices:

Sfoglia — A restaurant that’s a tough reservation to score even on non-holiday evenings, Sfoglia sits across from the 92nd Street Y and offers a “cupid’s arrow” four-course prix fixe celebration for $95.  I love this restaurant on a cold night.  It’s cozy with its white curtains, homey with its convivial vibe, and always pleasing with wonderful cooking from Chef John Carr.  On Valentine’s Day evening they’re only serving couples, no matter whether you’re sitting at a two-top or at the communal table, so you might actually have a better chance at scoring a table.  Both restaurant favorites and specials are on the menu with the likes of Maine uni with brown bread and house-made butter, buckwheat crespelle with celery root cream and caviar, and spaghetti and ruby red shrimp with Meyer lemon.

More on Valentine’s Day Dining Choices – Manhattan

NYC Museums and Parties: the Summer Schedule

Mix culture and some cocktails and what do you get? A dreamy night out in New York City. Last summer we introduced you to the food & drink programs that the city’s museums were offering.  This year we kick it up a notch with even more music and dancing. Grab a friend and spice up your week at these museum parties.

More on NYC Museums and Parties: the Summer Schedule

Planning a trip to NYC?