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Asia Society and Museum
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Arts & Entertainment Museums Arts & Entertainment Art Galleries Shopping Art Galleries Local Services Community Service/Non-Profit Performing Arts, Museums, Art Galleries, Community Service/Non-Profit [Edit]
725 Park Ave(between 70th St & 71st St)
New York, NY 10021
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
(212) 288-6400
- Nearest Transit:
-
68 St - Hunter College (4, 6, 6X)
77 St (4, 6, 6X)
Lexington Av/63 St (F)
- Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun 11 am - 6 pm
Fri 11 am - 9 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
Chelsea c. said: "I have a couple of really awesome art pieces that have been suffocating in their shipping tubes for at least a couple of years now. I finally decided to suck it up and pay for quality framing, and that is where 567 came in... I…" read more »
30 reviews for Asia Society and Museum
Review Highlights
"was here for the Yoshitomo Nara exhibit and it was..."
(in 3 reviews)
"The second and third floor houses the rotating exhibitions."
(in 3 reviews)
"but free on Fridays during certain hours I believe."
(in 4 reviews)
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30 reviews in English
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Review from Brinda G.
Manhattan, NY
12/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went to the Tagore exhibit...excellent set up! Beautiful venue and loved every minute. I love the gift shop too...expensive but what gift shop isnt? Excellent collection of books and little gifts. Thinking of becoming a member so I can go to the exhibits and live shows and discussions. Great lineup for the season...looking forward to going again!
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Review from Claire F.
12/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
In the heart of ritzy new money New York, lies the Asia Society. The building itself has a lot that could be worked with -- the architecture and design somehow manages to incorporate the different aspects of "Asian" that the museum itself tries to fuse together. Clean, modern Japanese influenced spiral staircase at the entrance swirls towards a statue Ganesh while the wood carved entrance to the ginormous gift shop that takes over the lobby ties in another example of what this small museum gathers under the heading of Asian.
While the idea is noble (I enjoyed the small special exhibit of U-Ram Choe's installations) and the execution slick, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by what I was being sold in the museum -- from the gift shop to the very wide definition of what cultures/countries were represented. It was too much to be expressed in the limited space.
The Rockefeller collection makes up the permanent collection and this fact was not lost on me. The museum seems to cater to what wealthy Asia-philes think Asian art should be, without regard for more subtle and perhaps risky artwork that a more nuanced approach would entail.
Two Friday nights of each month, Asia Society's Leo Bar features exotic cocktails at a cash bar, with free museum admission. Regular admission is $10.Listed in: Ménage à trois (ou plus), Art! For feck's sake ...
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Review from Cynthia M.
Long Island City, NY
10/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Saw the Philippine President Aquino III speak here in the auditorium. Very nice place and the auditorium was comfortable seating with a view from every seat.
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Review from Tina C.
9/6/2010 1 photo
A national nonprofit, nonpartisan educational organization headquarter office that resides in New York. Asia Society bring forth culture, language, education, arts, events, exhibits, performances and way of life unifing Asians to full circle of the globe.
Paid membership ranges from individual to corporate levels of approx. $65.00 to $500.00 above. As a non-member, I often venture to Asia Society's site to upkeep news from the Far East while seeking local events to bring me closer to either Hong Kong; Japan; Taiwan, et al. -
Review from Laurence H.
San Francisco, CA
8/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went to see Ai Weiwei's NY photographs. He was a lot thinner then and it is interesting to see the perception of an immigrant in NY during the 80's. While he was a nobody then, today he is widely regarded as one of the most famous conceptual artists. Definitely worth a look if you are a fan of Chinese contemporary art.
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Review from Scott L.
10/17/2010
On my visit Japanese Anime inspired neo pop artist yoshitomo nara took over the entire 3 story space with childhood inspired dreams and nightmares of otherworldly girls taking on the world. The exhibit was extensive and very well done, there were uncomfortable little doll house rooms, hallways and peep holes to view his graffiti like transcending kiddy punk chic.
Downstairs in the gift shop I grabbed a print of one of the paintings on display for $10 and a nice Thai Buddah statue for $13. -
Review from Angela N.
New York, NY
12/25/2010 5 photos
The Asia Society is a special organization and I'm not just saying that because I used to work there but if you've ever been to their bookstore, cafe or the exhibits there is just something unique about it. There is a convergence of knowledge, visual arts, architecture and history that the Society exudes that no other museum institution can match - the Rubin Museum is nice but it doesn't match the caliber here (it's was founded by the Rockefeller family after all).
Was recently here for the Nara exhibit (wonderful, speaks to so many thematic issues: lost childhood, fears/nightmares, rebellion. nonconformity, mix media, dreams, etc.). Good for Asia Society to have an exhibit that is more contemporary and attuned with pop culture (i.e. the younger generation). No matter what your opinion is about museums who are trying to cater to a younger generation of "art aficionados," (i.e. a nod to trending) it's getting people to walk through the doors of the Asia Society and open ups an opportunity for others to learn about their work, mission and space. It's a win-win. -
Review from Hootie H.
New York, NY
11/16/2008 1 photo
I am really surprised by all the mediocre reviews of The Asia Society.
Having visited many of New York's museums, and always being disappointed in their pithy 'Islamic' or 'Middle Eastern' art sections (usually lumped into one, sad little corner), I was delighted to discover The Asia Society.
They cover all of Asia, from Iran to China to Japan to India! Most recently, their exhibit of Arabic and Persian Calligraphy is fantastic - it continues through February 2009, and I would highly recommend it.
The centre itself is spacious, light, and un-intimidating. The atrium is beautiful and on Fridays they serve cocktails for museum members. Also, the member circles seem to be active and vibrant.
Another fantastic cultural watering hole in New York! This city just keeps on giving!Listed in: Looking good., culture!
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Review from Helena F.
Brooklyn, NY
12/21/2008
Edward Said Edward Said Edward Said.
Anyway, I have seen some amazing Mid-Eastern art here that I probably would not have seen anywhere else. This is a very well curated museum that is worth visiting though afterwards, there's not much to do around the area. -
Review from Jennifer N.
Washington, DC
11/2/2009
A really beautiful museum with two incredible exhibits- contemporary Pakistani art, and Indian bronzes. I was impressed by the curating - I felt like I was given just the right amount of historical and cultural context to understand the pieces that were displayed - and I found the setting to be beautiful and serene. We were there too late to enjoy the cafe, but I've heard it's lovely.
(Also- Columbia students... FREE!) -
Review from Sabeen A.
12/5/2009
Lovely museum - not that large, but always has beautiful exhibits. The Pakistani exhibit was very unique in that it features artists who have lived through the crises that have prohibited artistic movements during the past twenty+ years. Their work reflects said inhibition and also the dichotomy between religion and culture. Really interesting stuff.
The Chola Art of South India was a large exhibit while the Japanese art was rather scant and limited to a small room. Lovely nonetheless.
A trip to the Asia Society always presents beautiful and unique art that is often over-looked in large museums. Here they showcase it wonderfully.Listed in: Enter-the-Tainment.
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Review from jeff c.
3/14/2008
Free admission on Fridays here 6pm-9pm. Went to a very informative guided tour of the following:
- Exhibition : Designed for Pleasure: The World of Edo Japan in Prints and Paintings, 1680 - 1860
- Exhibition : The Shape of Things: Chinese and Japanese Art from the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection
- Exhibition : First Under Heaven: Korean Ceramics from the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection
Sometimes there is also a meet and mingle at the bar from 6pm-9pm where you can network with other patrons of the museum (main level). The auditorium and bathroom is located on the lower level. The exhibits are upstairs.
Decor: modern. -
Review from Renee C.
New York, NY
3/10/2009
There was a strike of union workers outside the building when I visited and they were trying to boycott the Asian Society. I did feel a little bad walking past them. Anyhow, I did^_^.
The first thing you see is the museum shop with these overpriced Asian ornaments, brushes, and jewelry, etc. Something you can get in Chinatown for a fraction of the price.
I thought the staircases were the architectural gem of this place!! I really really like their staircases, blue steps with a white skeleton, that's how I would put it. The stairs totally give this place it's character.
The second floor consisted of Rockefeller's collection of pottery and Buddhas and Budhisattvas. The third floor is the exhibit for the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Forest. Interesting, but a little lacking to my taste.
I wasn't sure if this museum was worth 10$ regular admission, maybe I just expected more from it. -
Review from Diana B.
New York, NY
1/4/2006 1 photo
Impressive place. And good film festivals, too.
http://asiasociety.com -
Review from Rebecca L.
Brooklyn, NY
2/13/2011
guaranteed peace and quiet
simple, seamless curation
exhibitions always worth visiting,
close to the whitney or hauser and wirth for a double header. -
Review from Rubie R.
Chicago, IL
5/27/2009
Explored the second and third floor exhibits that were free on Friday 6-9 PM. It only took an hour.
The most interesting were the little statues and pottery. I'm always astounded when I'm face to face with something that has existed for hundreds of years. There was a film that I couldn't get into with several parts to it, which were quite long. There was also some kids' art - cute, but not a reason I go to museums.
I love museums but I have to admit I was a little disappointed with this one. I may just have to check in when there are exhibits more interesting to me. But you can't beat free! -
Review from David C.
12/22/2010 3 photos
Great museum... was here for the Yoshitomo Nara exhibit and it was inspiring. the Neo pop art is fun and charming, especially in the way the exhibit is laid out in a sort of playful exploration through the museum... although the museum itself is not very large, so take your time.
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Review from Vivian H.
5/4/2010
In case you didn't update this in your calendar, May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (designated in 1992). So to celebrate all things Asian, I made my way out to Asia Society last Thursday for their "Asia in America Open House Kick-Off Celebration" from 6-11PM. This was my opportunity to see the museum for free, otherwise, the admission is $10. On Friday evenings, from 6-9PM, it is free. I missed most of the programs, but I was able to see the two current exhibitions (but not in its entirety); Pilgrimage and Buddhist Art and Arts of Ancient Vietnam (closed on May 2, 2010). The museum has a total of 4 floors. The first floor houses the gift shop and garden court cafe. The second and third floor houses the rotating exhibitions. The ground floor has an auditorium. During certain evenings, the garden court cafe will be open and a cash bar available to purchase drinks. It is a great way to unwind and mingle. I like that they offer champagne, how sexy and classy.
On the first floor, in the lobby, there is a beautiful statue of Ganesh, the Hindu elephant god. I have always wondered why Ganesha only had one tusk, Ganesha detached his tusk to write the epic story Mahabharata.
And this is the inscription below the statue:
"God of good luck and remover of obstacles."
**May we all have a Ganesha in our life**Listed in: Culture-fied!
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Review from Mika Z.
Queens, NY
12/27/2010 8 photos
I went here to check out the Yoshitomo Nara: Nobody's Fool exhibit. It's $FREE.99 on Fridays from 6-9pm. I'll give the place 5 stars alone for keeping art free for the public even if it's only once a week! I can only comment on the exhibit and the gift store as I didn't explore much after that. The exhibit was awesome and very inspiring. The security guards were strict with the no camera/cellphone/photographing policy. The gift shop had some expensive items but I picked up a cheap YN postcard pack as a memento.
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Review from April L.
CANAL STREET, NY
7/15/2011
The staff did not tell us the 2nd floor was closed so my friend paid $10 (I had my student ID so only $5) to look at 10 pieces of pottery and the Ai Wei Wei exhibit. I know art is subjective, but it felt like a rip off.
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Review from Audrey L.
Brooklyn, NY
3/11/2010
I have become a bit of an Asia Society groupie because a good friend of mine works here and invites me to the amazing programs they have on. I have set my alarm and run uptown before work to hear Anson Chan speak about suffrage in Hong Kong, skived to chomp on Malaysian delights and been awestruck by "The Cove" here. All of the gatherings, regardless of attendance, feel intimate and there truly is something for everyone that makes the trek to the UES worth it, even though my sojourns to the society no longer end with a treat at Payard, RIUESP.
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Review from Li M.
New York, NY
1/9/2006
Really an awesome place to learn something new or to discuss what you think with other people. Was here for a lecture one time and it was fascinating, not at all boring. The gallery is $5 for students with I.D. but free on Fridays during certain hours I believe. It's a great space- some of these pieces are really interesting. Go on a group tour- you'll learn a lot.
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Review from Arlene B.
New York, NY
4/13/2006
In addition to the exhibits, films and lectures, the pretty skylighted Garden Court Cafe on the first floor of the museum serves delicious Asian-inspired food that changes with the season. They serve lunch and tea daily.
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Review from Radford T.
Manhattan, NY
10/20/2009
This is an alright museum, with limited exhibition space. It's a bit difficult to try to cater to all things "Asia", with a definition of Asia that apparently also includes the Middle East. But sometimes you might see things there that you may not find in any other museum in NYC.
Listed in: Museums
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Review from kimberley o.
New Brunswick, NJ
9/14/2008
maybe it was only because i went to visit the museum, and maybe it was the exhibit that just made me sad (personal cultural reason, if you'd like to know, ask), but i found this museum just ok. thank God i'm a student so i only had to pay $5 instead of the usual $10 admission, because i would probably not come back again once i'm no longer a student. it was cool that the ticket also came with a free ticket that will last 1 yr, so i'll probably give it to a friend.
oh, and i did NOT like how no photography [not even non-flash!] was allowed -
Review from MARIANA L.
New York, NY
11/13/2005
Gorgeous collections, lectures and events. It showcases not only art, but relevant social issues. Bring zen and culture to yourself here.
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Review from Laur T.
New York, NY
3/2/2010
Came by the theatre some time back to watch Singapore Film "Gone Shopping". I love it that it screens independent / foreign films here. The building itself is spanking new and seems like a real nice place to be in. I've been meaning to come by again to check out Cafe Sabarsky... if only the UES ain't that far from home for me....
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Review from Katie T.
Ann Arbor, MI
2/25/2010
i stopped by the asia society museum after my visit to the frick. if i had not been able to get in for free (through my corporate ID), i would not have stayed. the weekend i was there, they only had 25% of their exhibits open.
the first exhibit was yoshihiro suda: in focus. the artist takes an ordinary object and intricately carves it out of wood making it look unbelievably lifelike. this exhibit had two flowers, a rose and and an orchid. it contrasted the new art with old 12th century pottery.
this exhibit, devotion in south india: chola bronzes was a definite contrast to the first exhibit. these were ancient bronze statues of various hindu deities primarily created in the 12-14th centuries.
times visited: 2
time spent in museum: 30 minutes
overall: B+ -
Review from Chi N.
7/13/2008
nice facility... didn't get a chance to check out the exhibits... went there for the asian american film festival to catch a film that i wasn't too crazy bout... so until i go back to look at what else they have to offer i shall keep my 3 stars on this place.
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Review from JJ A.
New York, NY
12/18/2009
Rather small and totally elegant museum with wonderful exhibits.
