Absolutely nothing in the world compares to the art in New York City. In the last two weeks alone, I have been so overwhelmed with the quantity, variety and quality of every single painting, sculpture and sketch I have seen, that it has quite literally brought me to tears. Now, some would simply say that’s because I’m an emotional person who cries when they see a puppy on the TV (which is true), BUT for some reason I didn’t expect to witness works by some of the most talented artists of all time.
Imagine seeing four large rooms filled wall-to-wall with Claude Monet’s waterlilies and landscapes, or your all time favourite painting by Georgia O’Keeffe in the same room as one of Salvador Dali’s most well known pieces. It would be incredible even for someone with very little knowledge of the art world. Whether it’s because of the amplified beauty of each piece that came out when I witnessed them up close, or simply the excitement that lead me to tears, I don’t think I will ever know…
Although what I am sure of is that everybody must try to see these at least once in their lifetime. So, below I have complied a quick list of the galleries I adored and why you need to visit them.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met was a dream come true and I could have spent days exploring it in more detail – it’s a shame time didn’t permit this. The current Manus X Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology was phenomenal for any fashion lover who would enjoy seeing decades of intricate designs alongside quotes by the designer. But the classic in me was drawn to the rooms of Vincent Van Gogh, Rodin, and the world of history around me. Check out the open archives if you can. And of course, we didn’t forget to take a photo on the famous steps (first picture)!
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA bought me to tears and it was Monet’s Waterlilies that broke me. I was so overwhelmed with the beauty of them that I froze at the sight of them and I suddenly noticed a warm, salty drop falling down my face. And I was then so overjoyed at seeing Van Gogh’s Starry Night that I was told off for getting so close. But on top of that, the works by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall, Edgar Degas (current exhibit) and Salvador Dali were of particular note.
The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim was an experience. I suggest beginning at the top and walking your way down the spiral building (second picture). Whilst the art was exceptional, I must say that the building’s design was a real standout for me.
You could spend months in the city and never have the chance to visit them all, but know that you will never regret taking the time out to walk through walls of beautiful paintings, sculptures, sketches and artefacts. Everyone will be better off by doing it.
Quick note that most galleries will ask you to wear your backpack at the front of your chest or hold it in your hands so you will not knock or unknowingly ruin anything. Where possible, I suggest taking smaller or very few bags with you.