1 Museum of International Folk Art
706 Camino Lejo
505-476-1200
The Museum of International Folk Art was founded in 1953 with the extensive collection of Florence Bartlett as the basis for its collection. Bartlett survived both world wars and emerged with the conviction that “keeping traditional art alive would one day bring peace.” Since its founding, MOIFA has come under the wing of the Museum of New Mexico and is now world-renowned for its comprehensive exhibitions of folk art from corners near and far.
What began with 5,000 artifacts has grown to a collection of more than 135,000—the single largest collection of international folk art in the world. SFR asked Museum Director Marsha Bol how the museum had become so special to both local and visiting constituents. “People enjoy folk art and, with the ongoing mission of peaceful bonds through art, along with the extensive programs partnered with education and after-school programming, and hands on exhibitions, it is nothing less than attractive,” Bol says.
MOIFA now hosts the annual International Folk Art Market each July, which features 165 artists from around the globe. On Aug. 29, the museum will cap its Dancing Shadows, Epic Tales: Wayang Kulit of Indonesia show with a live performance by an Indonesian puppeteer. (Casey Gallegos)
2 Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson St., 505-946-1000
3 SITE Santa Fe, 1606 Paseo de Peralta, 505-989-1199
