Local Knowledge–Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)

Local Knowledge–
Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
New York, New York

Located on the southern edge of Columbus Circle, the relatively new MAD occupies a well-known building, which has been recognizably renovated and transformed into a new “arts and design” museum.  It is 7 stories tall, narrow and slightly curved, and went from having an exterior shell of white “portholes” to a metallic wrap in rectangular sections.  The exterior look is very different (and perhaps not better), but at least now it is open to the public–and an exciting place to visit.

The exhibits are always compelling in some way (assuming you’re the kind of person who appreciates contemporary “arts and design” to begin with), and although you may not “like” everything you see, you may find yourself thinking about those more challenging pieces later on.  They have an extensive artist-made jewelry “collection,” much of it also for sale (very rare), and studios on the top floor where you can watch the resident artists through a glass wall (I’ve always been there at night and the studios were empty–just as well).  In general, MAD is well curated, seems to push the envelope and has an energy that’s rare in the museum world.

MAD has “pay what you wish” hours from 6PM-9PM on Thurs. and Fridays, and otherwise is open Tues.-Sun from 10AM-6PM.  Check the website for details.  If you happen to visit on a nice day you can finish with a stroll in Central Park–and Time Warner Center and Lincoln Center are both just steps away.

-Kate Lynch