Asia Society Museum showcases traditional, modern, and contemporary art from Asia and the Asian diasporas, presenting acclaimed exhibitions that feature both celebrated artists and important lesser-known voices.
Founded by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller 3rd in 1956, Asia Society New York was established as a nonprofit institution to promote mutual understanding between Asia and the United States. In 1974, Rockefeller donated 300 objects of Asian art (worth between $10 and $15 million) to the Asia Society.
Asia Society Museum is renowned for blending a world-class collection of historic Asian art—including the exceptional Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection of masterpieces spanning 2000 BCE to the 19th century CE—with a pioneering commitment to contemporary Asian and Asian American artists. The museum’s mission advances diversity, dialogue, and cross-cultural connections across disciplines.
Near Central Park on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, at 725 Park Avenue, Asia Society New York is easily accessible to visitors, providing a great opportunity while in the Big Apple to experience the power of art across cultures and history.
You can view the Asia Society Museum’s location within Ocula’s New York guide to navigating contemporary art.
Tickets and memberships provide access to exhibitions and programs at the New York headquarters only; they do not extend to affiliated Asia Society centers in other cities.
Asia Society Museum features both historic and contemporary Asian and Asian American art, from ancient masterpieces to innovative new works.
Asia Society New York presents excellent contemporary art exhibitions within its programme. Notable highlights include the 2025 presentation of Yang Fudong’s cinematic epic Seven Intellectuals in a Bamboo Forest, and (Re)Generations: Rina Banerjee, Byron Kim, and Howardena Pindell amid the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller Collection, also presented that same year. Other notable contemporary artists, such as Ai Weiwei, have also had their work shown at the museum. You can follow the Asia Society Museum on Ocula to be alerted to recommended exhibitions to view.
Several leading contemporary art museums and galleries are located near the Asia Society Museum in New York, offering a wide range of contemporary art exhibitions. Key nearby venues include both internationally renowned institutions and vibrant galleries recognised for showcasing new talent and experimental practices. Just a short distance away, you will find The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim.
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