Discover Top Art Exhibitions in New York City for 2023

There’s never a shortage of things to see in New York City. The vibrant street life and dynamic neighborhoods provide a cultural feast for visitors. Thanks to the colorful characters who make the city tick, the people-watching here is arguably the best in the world.

A whole different form of exploration awaits at New York’s peerless museums. With masterpieces ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art, the city’s permanent collections are worth a visit. However, it’s the ever-changing, kaleidoscopic temporary exhibitions that truly make New York an essential stop for art lovers.

Highlighted Exhibitions for 2023

1. Hip-Hop: Conscious, Unconscious

Fotografiska New York
On view: now through May 21, 2023

This interactive exhibition analyzes hip-hop’s influence on contemporary culture across various mediums, highlighting visual narratives and historical documentation from renowned artists. The show features celebrated figures in the genre and promises a dynamic exploration of hip-hop’s rich history.

“Public Enemy, Lafayette & Bleecker, New York City” (circa 1986) © Glen Friedman. Image courtesy of Fotografiska.

2. Wangechi Mutu: Intertwined

The New Museum of Contemporary Art
On view: March 2–June 4, 2023

This highly anticipated retrospective celebrates the vibrant work of Kenyan artist Wangechi Mutu. The exhibition showcases her diverse artistic practices, exploring themes of transformation, mutation, and cultural heritage.

“Yo Mama,” 2003 © Wangechi Mutu / Judith Rothschild Foundation Contemporary Drawings Collection Gift.

3. Sarah Sze: Timelapse

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
On view: March 31–September 12, 2023

Experience an immersive environment with site-specific installations by American multimedia artist Sarah Sze. The artworks will engage visitors through assembled found objects that reflect on the nature of time.

In-progress by Sarah Sze for the exhibition “Timelapse” at Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York © Sarah Sze. Image courtesy of Sarah Sze Studio.

4. Georgia O’Keeffe: To See Takes Time

The Museum of Modern Art
On view: April 9–August 12, 2023

This survey highlights O’Keeffe’s remarkable drawings that offer insights into her artistic vision and perception of the world. The exhibition reveals her process and thematic explorations that influenced her iconic works.

5. Daniel Lind-Ramos

MoMA PS1
On view: April 20–September 4, 2023

An exploration of identity and culture through large-scale works that utilize found objects, Daniel Lind-Ramos’ exhibition will reflect on Afro-Caribbean traditions and recent societal challenges, transforming everyday materials into significant art pieces.

“Pedacito de Sol” © Aliza Nisenbaum. Photographer: Thomas Barratt Image courtesy the Artist and Anton Kern Gallery, New York.

6. Aliza Nisenbaum: Queens, Lindo y Querido

Queens Museum
On view: April 23–September 10, 2023

Nisenbaum’s portraits celebrate the diverse community of Queens, capturing individuals with vibrant colors and styles reminiscent of classic muralists. This exhibition highlights the unique narratives of the borough’s inhabitants.

7. Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
On view: May 5–July 16, 2023

The Costume Institute’s exhibition showcases the influential designs of Karl Lagerfeld, paired with sketches that highlight his creative processes and the impact of his artistic vision on the fashion world.

8. Nicholas Galanin: In Every Language There Is Land

Brooklyn Bridge Park, Empire Fulton Ferry Lawn
On view: from May 16, 2023

This monumental installation by Nicholas Galanin will explore themes tied to Indigenous culture through striking steel letters that challenge viewers while inviting deep reflection.

9. This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture

Museum of the City of New York
On view: from May 19, 2023

Celebrating its centennial, the museum’s exhibition illuminates New York’s pivotal role in shaping American pop culture through a variety of media, including film, art, and historical artifacts.

10. Van Gogh’s Cypresses

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
On view: May 22–August 27, 2023

This summer presentation features works that showcase Van Gogh’s fascination with cypress trees, providing insights into his technique and creative inspiration through a selection of his iconic pieces.

11. Judy Chicago: Herstory

The New Museum of Contemporary Art
On view: October 12, 2023–January 14, 2024

The first-ever retrospective of Judy Chicago will present her landmark works, reflecting on her impact in the feminist art movement and the acknowledgment of overlooked women artists in history.

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