(New York, New York) The American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) announced today that it will temporarily close from January 30 through March 16, 2023 to redesign some of its galleries and install its next two exhibitions. The areas of focus for the redesign are the Audrey B. Heckler Gallery, the Daniel Cowin Gallery, and the Museum Shop. 

“This long-planned redesign reflects our desire to make the experience of visiting the Museum as dynamic as possible,” said Jason T. Busch, Becky and Bob Director & CEO at AFAM. “During our temporary closure, we will host virtual programs, share content about our collection online, and provide other opportunities to connect with the Museum. We look forward to welcoming the public to see our new exhibitions in March.” 

Following the closure period, the Audrey B. Heckler Gallery will be the starting point for major shows that will continue into the Atrium, the North Gallery, and the Karin and Jonathan Fielding Gallery. Meanwhile, in the Daniel Cowin Gallery, the Museum will prepare the space to inaugurate a series of thematic exhibitions featuring works drawn from the Museum’s collection and supported by a grant from the Henry Luce Foundation. The Museum Shop will be modified and outfitted with new shelving and displays for products inspired by the Museum’s collection and exhibitions. 

All of the above changes will occur in advance of Material Witness: Folk and Self-Taught Artists at Work and What That Quilt Knows About Me, both of which will open to the public on Friday, March 17. For more information on these exhibitions, please visit the Museum’s website. 

About the American Folk Art Museum

Founded in 1961, the American Folk Art Museum engages people of all backgrounds through its collections, exhibitions, publications, and programs as the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.