Discovering the Isamu Noguchi Museum, an Underrated Art Museum in NY

TravelSpaces

Oct 26

Written By A J

The Noguchi Museum stands as a tribute to the brilliance of its namesake, Isamu Noguchi, a pioneering sculptor, designer, and landscape architect. Stepping into this sanctuary, you embark on a journey through Noguchi's vision—a fusion of Eastern and Western influences, nature, and innovation. Let's delve deeper into why this museum is a must-visit for any art enthusiast venturing into the vibrant landscape of New York.

Getting There

First of all, it is a trek to get from Manhattan to Queens, but it’s made worthwhile by this peaceful, creative oasis. My appreciation for Isamu Noguchi grew after seeing all the ways he experimented with his sculptures and after learning about his direct participation in designing the space.

Our commute from Central Park was 40 mins by subway. My husband and I had walked over from our midtown hotel for a little stroll and fresh air. We spent about an hour wandering and people watching before realizing we should head to the Noguchi Museum before it closes for the day. Despite having already walked several thousand steps, and undeterred by the length of the expedition, we traversed through pedestrians and horse poop toward the 57th St station near Central Park. After the subway ride and a 16-min walk through the quiet streets of Queens, NY we were greeted by a minimal stone building with greenery delicately draped over it.

Exploring Isamu Noguchi's Legacy

Isamu Noguchi, often hailed as a visionary artist, defied convention with his avant-garde creations. His sculptures, furniture designs, and public installations are testaments to his boundless creativity and profound understanding of form and material. The Noguchi Museum serves as a showcase of his oeuvre, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into his artistic evolution.

A Tranquil Retreat Amidst the Urban Bustle

The tranquil sculpture garden provides respite from the city's frenetic energy, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and immerse themselves in Noguchi's contemplative works. Isamu Noguchi was intentional about using certain trees and plants in his art museum, which paid off because their contribution to the atmosphere was exceptional. Some were imported from Japan and others native to the United States. The dazzling afternoon light emphasized what a delight it was to find a place so serene in a metropolitan area like New York.

The Noguchi Museum is two stories, with artwork graciously spread throughout. There weren’t too many other visitors, which always makes me a happy museum attendee. It’s difficult to wholeheartedly enjoy perusing art when people are constantly walking in between you and the artwork or bumping into you due to lack of space.

The end of the museum walkthrough greeted us with shining Akari lamps and other wonderful trinkets. It was tempting to take many things home with us, but our luggage space was limited so we choose one item to satiate our palette for now. The organic textures, art pieces, and overall ambiance filled me with much joy. And despite my tired legs, I left with a happy heart and a beautiful Akari lamp to add to my home.

Highlights of the Noguchi Museum

From the iconic Akari light sculptures to the bold geometric forms of his stone and metal sculptures, the Noguchi Museum houses an impressive array of Noguchi's creations. Each area tells a story, offering insights into Noguchi's multifaceted artistic vision with sculptures from the 1950s to the 1980s.

CONCLUSION

I highly recommend visiting the Noguchi Museum while you’re in NYC if you’re looking for an art museum in New York 1) that isn’t on the typical “Art Museums in NYC” list or 2) if you love sculptural or textural art. The commute is worth it. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or simply seeking inspiration, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable journey through the intersection of nature, culture, and creativity. Immerse yourself in the legacy of a visionary artist whose timeless creations continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.