American Folk Art Museum Stores Information

American Folk Art Museum is the premier center in New York City for the study and appreciation of American folk art and creative works of self-taught artists at home and abroad. This museum was first known as the Museum of Early American Folk Arts, and in 2001 it changed to the current name, American Folk Art Museum.

The venue has two locations, one at 45 West 53rd Street, and the other at 2 Lincoln Square. Prior to the opening of the West 53rd Street building, Lincoln Square branch served as the institution's home and today this location features the free admission to the a large number of exhibitions of traditional folk art and works of contemporary self-taught artists, as well as a stunning book and gift shop.

American Folk Art Museum at West 53rd Street was opened in 2001, which gets the public and even critical acclaim. This building is of eight levels, about 85 feet tall. The facade is clad with 63 lustrous tombasil panels and interior spaces are vibrant with a wash of light. This structure has received a number of awards for its unique design and architectural brilliance.

Homepage of American Folk Art Museum

http://www.folkartmuseum.org/

Visiting Information

http://www.folkartmuseum.org/info

To enhance the memories of visitors, the museum has a store for heaps of items handmade in the folk tradition, including accessories, frames, jewelry, toys, home decors, as well as a wide selection of gift cards, stationary, and books. Similar to the museum itself, the shop also has two locations: one is found at 45 West 53rd Street, and the other branch at 2 Lincoln Square.

- The main location at 45 West 53rd Street opens from 10 am to 5:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday, and on Friday the store will remain open until 7:30 pm. It is closed on Monday except Monday of March 28 when the store will be operated from 10 am to 5:30 pm. The contact number of this location is 212-265-1040, ext. 124.

- The branch store is located at 2 Lincoln Square, adjacent to Columbus Avenue at 66th Street. This shop is opened from 12 am to 7:30 pm Tuesday to Saturday, and on Sunday, it is closed at 6 pm. Like the main location, this branch store is also closed to the public on Monday, except March 28. Its phone number is 212-595-9533, ext, 127.

As we have mentioned, these two locations house a large variety of handcrafted gift items of traditional folk style. Visitors are encouraged to pay a visit to the stores and choose some original and quirky souvenirs for a lifetime memory. Here we will introduce a list of featured and award-wining gifts showcased in the stores, ranging from jewelry and home decor, to personal accessories and kid's items.

Jewelry

The store has offered several kinds of charming jewelry which can certainly catch your eyes. Pretty pins with cute or luxury looks, witty earrings in stylish shapes, and exotic necklace, all of them are designed by famous artists and handcrafted.

Cherries Pin - This eye-catching pin highlights a fantastic cherry and colander design. The entire pin is handmade with brass sheet and wire. The claret cherry and the leaf are movable. This cute and pretty pin is sold at $130 for visitors and $104 for museum members.

Zipper Necklace - This innovative necklace is designed by premier glass artist Vanessa Yanow. The necklace can be zippered up and down to create different visual effects. When it is zippered up, you can wear it as a choker, and when it is zippered down, it is a pendant with teardrop-shape container enclosing a refined feather. This necklace is handcrafted in Canada and the regular price is just $56. The rate for members is $44.80.

Home Decor

Why not add some folk elements to your house? From pillows, blankets and placemats, to spoons, phonograph stands and posters, you will be surprised to find the museum store has offered more than you can imagine. Of course, all these items are handmade to meet your taste of folk.

"Stay" Pillow - This hooked-rug pillow is shaded and handmade with authentic New Zealand wool. It has pillow insert and zippered velveteen backing. This pillow is sold at $77 for common visitors and $61.60 for members.

Pewter Photograph Stand - Made in the US, this cool photograph stand is designed by Judy Vilmain. It is a perfect pick for your cherished photos and other mementos alike. You can buy it as a gift for a number of occasions, from birthdays to special days like Father's Day and Mother's Day. It only costs $28 for travelers and $22.40 for members of the museum.

Personal Accessories

The creative designers have shown perfectly how traditional folk arts mix and match with modern ideas through the chic accessories like T-shirts, bags and striped socks.

Folk T-Shirt - How can you miss this handsome T-shirt with the new logo of American Folk Art Museum? Made out of 100% black cotton, this black shirt features the word "FOLK" in the front, in a striking white graphic style. The sizes available for the moment are Adult S to XXL. Regular price for this T-shirt is $12 and members receive the discounted rate of $9.60.

Vintage Postcard Makeup Bag - This canvas bag has images on both sides, inspired by a vintage postcard. This is a thoughtful item for your mom, as you can have words like "To My Dear Mother" printed onto this makeup bag. Besides, you can call to check out the availability of these bags dedicated to other women meaningful in your life, like your daughter and sister. This bag costs $23 for visitors and $18.40 for members.

Kid's Items

Never think traditional folk works are something kids can not appreciate. American Folk Art Museum store has selected a wide range of items to tantalize your kids. Folk elements are added in every detail of these gifts, and your kids can get knowledge and ultimate fun while playing.

Board Piano - Innovated from the ancient folk music instrument, this board piano is handmade in Pennsylvania, out of solid hardwood. Your kids will definitely love this lovely equipment, as well as the beautiful sound coming out of it. There is a guide book along with this piano, including tips on playing and traditional folk music. The colors of these board pianos vary according to the wood used. This trick instrument is sold at $38 for visitors and $30.40 for members.

Street Architecture Game - Let your kids create intricate and fascinating street scenes by moving the colorful cards of Street Architecture Game. This item can develop both the manipulation and intellection of the kids. This devise is designed by Ted Naos and handcrafted in America, only sold at $11 for common buyers and $8.80 for museum's members.

If you are interested in any of these featured items (to see more on the official website), please call 212-265-1040, ext. 124 for ordering. 20% discounts are available for American Folk Art Museum members.