American Folk Art Museum

The American Folk Art Museum is an institution in Manhattan displaying works by self-taught creators, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, quilts, signs, and weathervanes. The permanent exhibition spans several rooms with rotating focuses on different techniques and materials.

The institution opened in June 1961 and became the first center of its kind in the city. Over the decades, the collection grew steadily through donations and acquisitions.

The name refers to an American tradition where creators without formal training express their personal view of the world. Visitors see everyday objects like weathervanes or shop signs that are now considered works of art.

Guided tours and workshops are offered regularly and are designed for visitors of all ages. The rooms are well lit and allow for a calm walkthrough without time pressure.

The institution holds the largest collection of works by Henry Darger, whose manuscript spanning over 15,000 pages with hundreds of watercolor illustrations rests here. Many visitors discover this name for the first time during their visit.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: June 23, 1961

Official opening: June 23, 1961

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Address: 2 Lincoln Square

Website: http://folkartmuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 40.77323,-73.98160

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30