The Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, internationally known as MoMA, is the most influential modern and contemporary art entity. It has defined many 20th-century art trends and has shaped what contemporary art looks like. The far-reaching cultural effect of MoMA extends far beyond New York, giving the museum global recognition.

History of MoMA

The story of MoMA started in 1929, when three visionaries made a decision to create a groundbreaking art institution. The museum was the brainchild of Lillie P. Bliss, Mary Quinn Sullivan, and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, each fostering a radical plan to set up an art entity fully committed to reflecting the zeitgeist of the present-day community. This ambition turned into reality. The first exhibitions at MoMA foreshadowed massive trend changes in American and global art, defining the appearance of canonical movements and giving birth to tomorrow’s art icons.

First seen as radical and controversial, MoMA exhibitions paved the way to global acceptance and the rise of Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, and later Minimalism. This way, MoMA has earned the fame of a visionary trend-setter, with its curators looking beyond present-day sentiment to anticipate and shape the future of art. The museum underwent a massive reconstruction, reopening in 2019 with a new, reimagined layout.

Extensive Art Collection

The Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan holds the world’s most extensive and valuable collection of modern and contemporary art. It features such gems as The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso, and the world-famous Campbell’s Soup Cans by Andy Warhol. In addition to paintings, MoMA boasts a broad collection of sculptures, photographs, and industrial design works.

Dynamic Displays at the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan

MoMA is widely famous for its unique approach to art displays. Instead of presenting fixed curatorial compilations following chronological or artist-matched canons, MoMA curators engage in continuous experimentation. They hang globally famous masterpieces next to contemporary artwork and recontextualize iconic art by surrounding it with lesser-known pieces.

Visiting MoMA in 2026

Visiting MoMA is always a great idea for NYC attendees and residents. This year, the museum continues its long-held agenda of addressing global themes of climate change, technology, migration, and social justice through art, fostering inclusive storytelling. A special emphasis at MoMA is support for underrepresented artists and communities, meant to amplify the muted voices and make the contemporary art landscape more representative. Besides, MoMA pursues multiple digital initiatives to explore interdisciplinary and hybrid approaches in present-day art.