The Noguchi Museum offers a trip through the mind of its founder, Isamu Noguchi. The soul of Long Island City exudes a cluster of art galleries. This collection includes the Fisher Landau Center for Art, MOMA P.S.1, the Sculpture Center, Museum of the Moving Image, the Isamu Noguchi Museum and, last but not least, the Dorsky Gallery.
Featured at this small but unique gallery are selections from contemporary artists Nancy Davidson, Yasue Maetake, Halsey Rodman, Jeanne Silverthorne and Moira Williams who explore the idea of “self” and the idea that a narcissistic artist is displayed in creating artworks that mirror their own images and actions through the camera lens.
Silverthorne’s display room bursts out sounds and sights that disorient the senses. The sound of man’s scientific innovations reverberate by way of her two pieces entitled Motorized Rubber Fans and Still and in Motion (2007 and 2011). Entrance to the gallery is always free. For more information, visit www.dorsky.org.
Motion picture buffs will revel in watching a classic movie screened in its original 16mm, 35mm or 75mm format before venturing into the museum’s galleries which feature a collection of rare artifacts including movie cameras from the early sound era through the modern day. Even the mouthpiece that accentuated Marlon Brando’s jowls in The Godfather are also available for viewing.
Between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. the museum provides free admission to those who seek it. On other days, general admission is $10 to watch a film, which includes free admission to the exhibits. On March 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. you can catch a free screening of Orson Welles’ 1958 masterpiece Touch of Evil starring Charlton Heston, Janet Leigh and, of course, Welles himself. For more information, visit www.movingimage.us/visit /.
Rooted along the waterfront is a modern triangular shaped building which is the Isamu Noguchi Museum. This well nested
Japanese/American inspired museum opened its doors to the public in 1985 adding a modern twist to the surrounding diverse neighborhood. Museum founder, designer and artist Isamu Noguchi has left his mark on Long Island City with everything inside the museum. From the plants (Japanese and American) to the umbrella of cinderblock walls, one is surrounded by Noguchi’s personal charm leading to a very personal experience.
This experience will only cost a small donation on the first Friday of every month (pay what you wish). This includes a free 2 p.m. gallery guided tour that helps bring the space to life. On regular days admission to the museum, 32-37 Vernon Blvd., is $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Spring is the perfect time to venture into the garden, inside are the complementing natural forces of stone and vegetation. Along with their ongoing permanent collection is an exhibition called Civic Action: A Vision for Long Island City, which will run until April 22. According to Isamu Noguchi Museum Director Jenny Dixon, “Civic Action honors the legacy of Isamu Noguchi and Mark di Suvero, whose pioneering commitment to Long Island City launched its regional, national and international profile.” For more information, visit www.nooguchi.org.
Unlike the larger scale museums across the East River in Manhattan, the Noguchi Museum and the Fisher Landau Center for Art offer works inside buildings that are centered on one person or artist. Designed by Max Gordon, the Fisher Landau claims a spot on 38 Avenue and 30 Street. Displayed on the first and third floors is Emily Fisher Landau’s collection of artwork consisting mainly of largescale projects. The winter exhibition reflects the modern and sleek first floor with its white walls and larger than life columns. The second floor features a special exhibition, which are bound for the Whitney Museum of American Art. Projected in the art are controversial political topics that were a large part of the 1980s and 90s. Entrance to the gallery is free of charge. For more information, visit www.flcart.org.
The museums of Long Island City offer a truly Manhattan artistic experience without the hassle of tolls, parking and high admission costs. The way a trip to the museum should be.
