MoCA & Vivienne Tam

Photo by Brett Essler.

After brunch, Holly and I ventured down to SoHo with the intention of going to the opening of the new New Museum of Contemporary Art. The much anticipated opening of the museum’s new space on Bowery, designed by the japanese team, Kazuyo Sejima + Ryue Nishizawa / SANAA (working with the New York offices of Gensler).

Only the night before I learned that tickets were reserved for the opening day, and that non-ticket-holders would have to wait in a standby line. If I understand correctly, admission was free, but had to be scheduled in advance. I actually have little interest in the opening exhibit, aptly entitled “Unmonumental” (found-object/garbage sculpture), and much more interest in the building itself.

Before we could make it to the museum, in fact we barely made it up the steps from the N & R, a fellow handed Holly a one-day-only Vivienne Tam sample sale invite— 7th floor showroom across the street. Two dresses and a jacket later (all for less than the price of one dress at retail) and my holiday shopping obligations were taken care of. We love you, Vivienne Tam.

We also learned that her new boutique has just opened in the Jean Nouvel designed, 40 Mercer building.

Photos by Marcio Madeira.

When we eventually made it to the museum, the standby line wrapped down the street and around the corner. The girl with the clip-board informed us that they were letting small groups in from standby once every 30 minutes. Judging from the length of the line, I guestimated at least a 2 hour wait for those at the end of the line to get inside… waiting in below freezing temperatures and gusting wind that put the wind-chill in the teens. Oh, I think I can pass. Yes, indeed I can pass on that. Cute new building you’ve got there.

Go here 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to see more photos of the new New Museum of Contemporary Art.

Go here 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 to see more of Vivienne Tam’s clothing.

Go here 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 to see more photos of the 40 Mercer building.