Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) | New York

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD), located at 2 Columbus Circle in Manhattan, New York City, is a leading institution dedicated to the exploration of contemporary creativity where craft, art, and design converge. It highlights the process of making and celebrates innovation in materials and techniques, bridging traditional craft with modern art and design.

History and Mission

Founded in 1956 originally as the Museum of Contemporary Crafts, MAD was established to showcase and preserve modern craftwork. In 2002, it was renamed the Museum of Arts and Design to reflect its broader commitment to art, craft, and design in contemporary culture. The museum’s mission centers on championing creativity across disciplines, emphasizing the artistic process and the transformative potential of materials.

MAD’s philosophy is rooted in the idea that craft and design are dynamic and evolving practices that respond to cultural and technological changes. The institution aims to provide a platform where artists and designers can innovate, experiment, and inspire the public.

Architecture and Location

The museum is housed in a striking building designed by architect Brad Cloepfil of Allied Works Architecture, which opened in 2008. The building’s façade is notable for its textured terra-cotta tiles and expansive glass windows, symbolizing both tradition and innovation—reflecting MAD’s mission. The design creates an inviting, light-filled space that enhances the visitor’s experience of the exhibitions.

Located at the southwestern corner of Central Park at Columbus Circle, MAD occupies a prime cultural and tourist hub in Manhattan, easily accessible by several subway lines and close to other major museums.

Collections

MAD’s permanent collection includes over 2,000 objects spanning mid-20th century to the present, showcasing a wide variety of materials such as glass, ceramics, metal, fiber, wood, and new media. The collection represents works by renowned artists, designers, and makers who push the boundaries of craft and design.

The collection is characterized by its diversity and innovation, featuring:

Contemporary Craft Objects: Sculptural and functional pieces that explore form, material, and technique.

Design and Applied Arts: Furniture, jewelry, and decorative arts that blend artistry with utility.

Multimedia Works: Including video, installations, and digital art that challenge traditional definitions of craft.

Artist-Made Objects: Highlighting individual artists’ approaches to materials and processes.

Exhibitions

MAD is known for its vibrant and thought-provoking exhibitions that cover a range of themes around craftsmanship, innovation, culture, and identity. These exhibitions often combine historical perspectives with cutting-edge contemporary work.

Recent and Current Notable Exhibitions:

Saya Woolfalk: Empathic Universe
An immersive multimedia installation that explores themes of identity, technology, and human empathy through fantastical narratives and futuristic designs. Woolfalk combines sculpture, costume, and performance to create an experiential environment.

Anne Wilson: The MAD Drawing Room and Errant Behaviors
A site-specific installation by fiber artist Anne Wilson that investigates the relationship between drawing, memory, and storytelling. The work invites visitors to experience the artistic process in a tactile, intimate way.

OUT of the Jewelry Box
An ongoing exhibition showcasing avant-garde jewelry that blurs the lines between art and adornment, highlighting innovative materials and concepts.

MAD regularly collaborates with contemporary artists and designers, offering exhibitions that challenge traditional boundaries and invite audiences to rethink craft and design’s role in society.

Programs and Facilities

MAD is unique among museums for its strong emphasis on educational engagement and artist collaboration. It offers a range of programs designed to connect the public with the creative process:

Open Studios: Visitors can observe artists and craftspeople at work in the museum’s artist studios, gaining firsthand insight into techniques and creative problem-solving.

Education Center: Equipped with classrooms and multimedia resources, the center supports workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities for learners of all ages.

Artist-in-Residence Program: Provides artists with studio space and resources to develop new work within the museum’s environment.

Auditorium: The 144-seat theater hosts talks, film screenings, panel discussions, and performances related to exhibitions and craft/design topics.

Visitor Information

Location: 2 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Mondays.

Admission:

Adults: $18

Seniors (65+): $14

Students (with ID): $12

Children under 18: Free

Members: Free

Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible and located near the 59th Street–Columbus Circle subway station served by A, C, B, D, and 1 trains.

Significance

The Museum of Arts and Design stands out as a hub where tradition meets innovation, fostering a deeper appreciation for the creative act in its many forms. By showcasing both historic craft and groundbreaking contemporary design, MAD challenges conventional categories and encourages visitors to rethink the cultural and artistic value of making. It supports artists and designers who innovate with materials and techniques, enriching the cultural fabric of New York City and beyond.

This comprehensive approach makes MAD a vital destination for anyone interested in the evolving relationship between art, craft, and design.