Museum of Modern History New York
Synopsis
The idea of a Museum of Modern Art was once considered by critics to be an oxymoron. Its very existence posed the question: How can there be a museum (a permanent institution housing the heritage of human civilization) for Modern art (which embodies the ideal of always moving forward and constantly changing)? Rather than shy away from this paradox, MoMA has embraced its contradictory nature by appealing to both the history of Modernism and the legacy it continues to leave in the 21st century.
Founding principles
- The idea for the museum was first developed by a group of philanthropists, educators and museum curators, led by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller (wife of John D. Rockefeller), in 1928. They envisioned a modest-sized location in New York City that could essentially be a stop-over for some of Europe's finest Modern art.
- Their mission for the museum was stated as, "encouraging and developing the study of Modern arts . . . and furnishing popular instruction."
- The Museum of Modern Art was the first institution anywhere in the United States to devote itself exclusively to Modern art.
You might also like




Rikki KnightTM Fairy Tale Cottage in Winter Snow Design Black Galaxy S5 Tough-It Case Cover for Galaxy S5 (Double Layer case with Silicone Protection and thick front bumper protection) Wireless (Rikki Knight)
|
![]() |
Verso Urban Calligraphy Case Cover by Sisters Gulassa (Fits Kindle Fire), Brown/Tan (does not fit Kindle Fire HD) Digital Device Accessory (LightWedge (Kindle Accessories))
|