New Museum
New York Learn more about what's on at New Museum and the artists shaping its programme.The New Museum, located on the vibrant Bowery in New York City, is exclusively dedicated to contemporary art, and is a must-visit art institution for anyone interested in the direction of culture.
Distinguished by its striking, stacked-box SANAA-designed building, the New Museum is recognised internationally as a pioneering exhibition space rather than a collecting museum, providing an influential platform for ‘new art and new ideas’ from emerging and established voices worldwide.
Founded in 1977 by curator Marcia Tucker as an alternative space for living artists, the museum continues to champion innovation, social engagement, and boundary-pushing programming. Notable exhibitions and commissions include solo presentations by Jenny Holzer, Emory Douglas, Urs Fischer, Louise Lawler, and digital initiatives through Rhizome. The New Museum regularly hosts residencies, interdisciplinary projects, and civic collaborations.
Follow the New Museum on Ocula for alerts on recommended shows to see at the institution and follow Ocula’s New York Art Guide to learn about other must-see New York exhibitions on too.
New Museum FAQs
What is the history of the New Museum?
Established in 1977 by Marcia Tucker, the New Museum emerged to spotlight artists who lacked mainstream institutional recognition. Now housed at 235 Bowery since 2007, it represents a hub of experimental and critical contemporary practice.
Where is the New Museum located?
The New Museum is situated on the Lower East Side at 235 Bowery, close to Prince Street. Its dynamic setting places visitors in the heart of New York’s creative community, alongside galleries like Lehmann Maupin, Sperone Westwater, and the Bowery Ballroom. You can explore Ocula’s New York Art Guide to plan which of the city’s must-see exhibitions you should visit.
What art can I see at the New Museum?
The museum focuses on exhibitions, commissions, and live programming by contemporary artists from all over the globe. Expect innovative solo and group shows spanning new media, social practice, painting, performance, and video, as well as the recurring Triennial for emerging artists. Follow the New Museum on Ocula to learn about which shows our team recommends as a ‘must-see’ New York exhibition.
How do I find out what’s on at the New Museum?
Current and upcoming exhibitions, events, and residencies are listed on the official website and Ocula’s New Museum page and in the Ocula New York Art Guide, offering timely recommendations for what’s on in the city’s contemporary art scene.
Who are some of the artists who have shown at the New Museum?
Among many, Jenny Holzer, Vito Acconci, Urs Fischer, Emory Douglas, Louise Lawler, Lynda Benglis, and Jordan Casteel have presented major projects here. You can use Ocula to explore the profiles of artists who have shown at the New Museum.
What contemporary art galleries are nearby the New Museum?
Local highlights include Lehmann Maupin, Sperone Westwater, and various Lower East Side galleries. The Ocula New York City Guide provides recommendations for planning an art itinerary in the area.
Is the New Museum a collecting institution?
The New Museum is a non-collecting museum dedicated to exhibitions and commissioning new work rather than amassing a permanent collection.
Is the New Museum accessible?
The building is designed for accessibility, with barrier-free entry, elevator service, and dedicated services for visitors with disabilities.
Can I buy artworks by artists who have shown at the New Museum?
While the museum does not sell art, Ocula’s platform and advisory service can help visitors discover and acquire works by artists featured in New Museum exhibitions through leading galleries. You can explore artworks for sale by artists who have shown at the New Musuem on Ocula.
More New York Museums and Galleries
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services