Noguchi filled the American pavilion in Venice with stone and Akari light sculptures, and this show revisits that pairing inside the Queens building he converted for exactly this kind of looking. Rough basalt and granite sit against paper lanterns that glow, which is his late work in one room. If you want an afternoon that feels nothing like Manhattan, go.
What to expect
The galleries are daylit, low and calm, opening onto Noguchi's own walled sculpture garden. Expect carved stone that invites you to walk around it and Akari lanterns hung so the light does the work. It is a small museum, so an hour and a half covers the show and the garden comfortably.
Good to know
- Take the N/W to Broadway in Astoria and walk toward the waterfront, or use the NYC Ferry to Astoria.
- The sculpture garden is part of the visit — dress for being outdoors part of the time.
- Socrates Sculpture Park is a five-minute walk away and is free to enter.
- The museum is closed early in the week, so check the day before you travel.
- Galleries and garden paths are largely step-free and wheelchair accessible.
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Common questions
What was the 1986 Venice Biennale presentation?
Noguchi represented the United States with a pavilion pairing carved stone and his Akari light sculptures, which this exhibition revisits.
How do I get there?
It is in Long Island City, Queens — reachable via the N/W to Broadway in Astoria or the NYC Ferry.
Is the sculpture garden open?
Yes — the garden Noguchi designed is part of the museum visit.
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