So many people have written about the expansion of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City that the world may not need one more review, but I promise to keep it short. It’s great. I love it!
They have increased the space about 30% and nearly doubled the art on view. The expansion of the space has meant an expansion of the canon of the history of modern art to include more art by women and people of color.
My first thought was, “Finally!” There they were – Sonia Delaunay, Rufino Tamayo, and Hilma of Klint – right where they should be as part of the story of modern art. There is so much more film and photography on view now and it leads into the galleries dedicated to Cubism which is totally appropriate. Constantin Brancusi’s beautiful sculptures are together in a separate space in a way that is reminiscent of famous photographs of the artist in his studio, surrounded by his work. The hardline formalist approach to the narrative of modernism has given way to collections around a theme, such as “War Within, War Without.” There’s a lot going on there, and it will take you a while to process it all.
My second thought was, “Where have they been hiding this stuff?” The answer is that much of the added material is recently acquired… so that’s terrific. Apparently, they will be changing around the art in the galleries with the permanent collection every three to six months, so that gives me reason to return more often. Actually, I’d like to go back sooner than that. You need to get there too!
On my way out of the building, I saw the director Glenn Lowry walking in. He doesn’t know me from Adam, but I had to tell him just how much I enjoyed my visit. He seemed genuinely pleased to hear it and said something about music to his ears. Kudos Dr. Lowry!