Santa Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art

The Museum of International Folk Art is home to the world’s largest collection of folk art. Spanning more than 135,000 objects from more than 100 countries, the collection offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage with the crafts and traditions from the global community. 

Explore Folk Art from Around the World at Santa Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art

For more than 70 years, the museum has served as a dynamic, multidimensional learning environment where visitors of all ages can learn about traditions of the world, cultural identity, and community. Colorful exhibitions, public programs, events, and renowned artists all contribute to the museum’s unique offering. 

A vibrant colored piece of art make from yarn of figures around the sun.

The museum’s colorful and awe-inspiring exhibitions are a key draw. Rotating exhibitions showcase traditions from every continent, each devoting space to exploring different crafts and artforms. The museum’s permanent exhibition, Multiple Visions: A Common Bond is the museum’s crown jewel. Millions of visitors are drawn to this curated collection of more than 10,000 objects donated by Alexander Girard. The exhibition features a seemingly endless array of miniatures, masks, puppets, dolls, and so much more. Due to its sheer size and vastness, no two viewing experiences are the same. Visitors can peer into tiny scenes and become enchanted by their creativity and culture.  

Children viewing an exhibit on a bright orange platform in a room with hot pink and vibrant green walls at the Santa Fe Museum of International Folk Art

The museum is also a family favorite for year-round events and programs. Each event is a mix of informational and hands-on experiences that connect directly to the exhibitions on view. Every fall, the museum also hosts a free community day, each with its own theme. This year, Route 66 Community Day celebrates 100 years of the iconic Route 66. The event will include educational events, art activities, music, food vendors, and a car show and car crawl from downtown Santa Fe to Museum Hill. Each year, this annual event brings thousands of visitors to Museum Hill. 

Two young boys walking down a museum corridor pointing at colorful art on the walls of the Museum of International Folk Art

Visit Museum of International Folk Art to experience the world’s living folk art traditions. The museum is a space for anyone who wants to connect with the communities and cultures of the world.

Article Sponsored by The State of New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs
Photography by Tira Howard

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