Latest Best of NY

The 8 Best Art Galleries In NYC

September 28, 2011 9:22 AM

(credit: Lehmann Maupin Gallery/Facebook)

You don’t need a degree in art history to appreciate fine culture. New York City is home to world-class galleries, featuring both legendary artists and up-and-coming names you’ll need to know tomorrow. Whether you’re into Egyptian antiquities, contemporary abstract pieces, or simply like the look of anything European, pop into these eight galleries for an all-access pass to some of the art scene’s most stunning works. By Krissy Dolor.

David Zwirner

(credit: DavidZwirner.com)

525 W. 19th St., New York, NY 10011
212-727-2070
davidzwirner.com

With more than 400 art venues in Chelsea to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one to explore. But a trip to the city’s most well-known art scene wouldn’t be complete with stopping by David Zwirner’s gallery. His collection of contemporary artists is both international and influential. He’s even helped launch the careers of today’s top players, including Luc Tuymans and Neo Raunch. Pass by this vast space for a dash of inspiration with a whole lot of taste.

Lehmann Maupin Gallery

(credit: Lehmann Maupin Gallery/Facebook)

540 W. 26th St., New York, NY 10001
212-255-2923
lehmannmaupin.com

This former Soho powerhouse moved to Chelsea in 2002. The gallery is known for its support of up-and-coming artists working in innovative forms who will change the contemporary art space. Featured artists include Teresita Fernandez, an artist just appointed to the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts.

New Museum of Contemporary Art

getty images4 The 8 Best Art Galleries In NYC

(credit: Mariano Rolando/AFP/Getty Images)

235 Bowery, New York, NY 10002
212-219-1222 ‎
newmuseum.org

Though artwork is always the main feature of a gallery, it’s important to note the space that surrounds it – particularly if the venue can seen as a piece of art itself. The New Museum building was designed to be a sculptural stack of boxes that are shifted off its axis, placed around a central steel core. Despite being a museum it has a gallery-like feel and houses all types of art, from kitschy installation works to famous world collections. Perfect for those who want a hipster hangout to head to after their art viewing.

Museum of Modern Art

(credit: Jemal Countess/Getty Images)

53rd St. and 5th Ave., New York, NY 10103
212-708-9400
moma.org

Stop by this famous Midtown museum to immerse yourself in extraordinary exhibitions and extensive collections of both modern and contemporary house. Get into a creative mindset at MoMa, a museum whose mission is to fuel conversation between all types of art, from established and experimental pieces to present and past works. On view artists range from Van Gogh to Matisse, and even Warhol.

L&M Arts

(credit: L&M Arts)

45 E. 78th St., New York, NY 10075
212-861-0020
lmgallery.com

Downtown isn’t the only place to find great art. L&M is one of the public uptown galleries that shows well-known names like Pable Picasso and Damien Hirst. You’ll enjoy walking through the cozy space of this two-story townhouse, featuring a winding staircase leading to its second-floor gallery. The vibe is a welcome change from the industrial space that normally houses contemporary art, so don’t be too shy to buzz in at the entrance.

Guggenheim Museum

(credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

1071 Fifth Ave. at 89th St., New York, NY 10128
212-423-3500
guggenheim.org

Experience the best of both modern and contemporary art at this iconic cultural center. Enjoy not just the art work, but the unique spiral shape of the building, designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The museum also offers lectures by artists and critics, film screenings and performances, adult and teen classes and daily tours.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

(credit: Don Emmert/AFP/Getty Images)

1000 Fifth Ave. at 82nd St., New York, NY 10028
212-535-7710
metmuseum.org

A trip along Museum Mile wouldn’t be complete without heading to The Met. This art powerhouse easily has one of the best collections in the world and is a perfect place for a sophisticated date. From classic American paintings and sculptures to intricate Islamic art, you’re surrounded by hundreds of years of renowned works. Don’t forget to check out The Cloisters!

Brooklyn Museum of Art

(credit: Rob Kim/Getty Images)

200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11225
718-638-5000
brooklynmuseum.org

Venture outside Manhattan for art that’s both high-class and accessible. At the Brooklyn Museum of Art, you’re guaranteed to find a work that strikes your fancy, as their permanent collections represent almost every part of the world. As one of the oldest and largest museums in the country, you’ll view ancient Egyptian masterpieces, African wood sculptures and the famous Steinberg Family Sculpture Garden. The museum even features monthly live performances and is right next to other attractions, like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Prospect Park.

For the latest on NYC’s arts and culture scene, follow us on Twitter!

Jill Webb

I think the most interesting artist in recent time is Neil Hess. Google The Worlds of Neil Hess
mary Smith

jandgdist.com!!!! Support breast cancer – hope for a cure in every bag of Pink Potato Chips – check it out!!!!