Fine art and technology meet in NYC’s only Museum dedicated to dogs
The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog will officially open its doors in New York City today Friday February 8, 2019 with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new location, 101 Park Ave, just steps away from Grand Central Station. The Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of canine fine art.
Located in Midtown Manhattan, the newly designed space will house art from famous dog artists such as Sir Edwin Landseer, Maud Earl, Arthur Wardle and many more. It also has a two-story glass vitrine that encases rare porcelains and bronzes, in addition to a library where users can learn about their favorite breeds. The Museum’s first exhibition will be entitled “For the Love of All Things Dog” and combines select works from the AKC’s own collection and that of the Museum.
Throughout the Museum, visitors will experience exhibits that bridge the digital and physical elements of the Museum and bring new life to the collection. Spanning two floors with a double height atrium space at the stair, the gallery includes interactive exhibits such as a “Find Your Match” kiosk that takes your photo, aligning its likeness with an AKC-registered dog breed. Additionally, there is a “Meet the Breeds®” touchscreen table that allows visitors to explore breeds’ features, traits, history and representations in the collection. There are several other digital experiences that bring audiences into the history of the Museum and its mission.
“It is exciting to bring this collection back to New York City,” says Alan Fausel, Executive Director, American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog. “This Museum is a beautiful ode to man’s best friend and we are thrilled to bring these pieces and exhibitions to new audiences.”
The Museum will also have an app where users can interact with the exhibits with “Arty” a virtual dog/tour guide throughout the Museum. It creates a new user experience for kids and kids at heart.
The AKC Museum of the Dog, founded in 1982, was originally housed in The New York Life Building located at 51 Madison Avenue as part of the AKC Headquarters. In 1987, the Museum was moved to West St. Louis County, MO. The AKC was instrumental in founding the Museum and believes in its mission to protect and to share the amazing works of art donated by participants in the dog sport over the last 35 years. The new Museum will be housed at the Kalikow Building at 101 Park Ave.
Updated Feb 8, 2019 from an earlier post.
