Founded in 1985 by Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi (1904–1988), The Noguchi Museum was the first museum in America to be established, designed, and installed by a living artist to show their own work. Located at the intersection of the thriving Astoria and Long Island City neighbourhoods in Queens, New York, the Museum features both open air and indoor galleries in a repurposed 1920's industrial building, and an internationally renowned outdoor sculpture garden.
In addition to maintaining Isamu Noguchi’s archive and catalogue raisonné, the Museum exhibits a comprehensive selection of sculpture, models for public projects and gardens, dance sets, and his Akari light sculptures. Provocative installations drawn from the permanent collection, together with special exhibitions related to Noguchi and the milieu in which he worked, offer a contextualized view of Noguchi’s art and illuminate his enduring influence. The Museum coordinates loans and exhibitions of Noguchi’s works worldwide; distributes his Akari light sculptures and other designs; and collaborates with contemporary practitioners across disciplines (visual artists, designers, musicians, dancers, poets, and more) to develop programming. In the spirit of Isamu Noguchi’s artistic vision, education programs and community partnerships at The Noguchi Museum encourage exploration and discovery while honouring diversity, affirming the value of each individual’s unique interpretations.
