If you enjoy taking pictures or looking at pictures that others have taken, then you must see the International Center of Photography Museum. The main museum is housed in the historic Willard Straight House, at 1130 5th Avenue; in addition, there is a satellite facility located at 1133 Avenue of the Americas and 43rd Street.
Why was the International Center of Photography Museum created?
The
International Center of Photography is actually a school as well as a museum. Both institutes, however, were created to impart a deeper understanding and appreciation of photography.
Without photography, we would not have been able to witness such scenes as the historic meeting between Richard Nixon and Nikita Khrushchev and other works by Elliott Erwitt, whose collection is currently on display. Nor would we still be able to feel and share the sadness that Mr. Erwitt managed to catch on Jacquelyn Kennedy's face at the funeral of her husband, John F. Kennedy.
It is for this and other reasons that the International Center of Photography Museum, and the school, was created. The old saying "a picture is worth a thousand words" is certainly true when it comes to photography.
When was the International Center of Photography created?The Museum and school was founded in 1974 by Cornell Capa. It was the intention of Mr. Capa to continue expanding on the legacy of what he termed "concerned photography". The school and museum have been so successful in carrying out Mr. Capa's wishes that, as mentioned earlier, it has been necessary to open a satellite facility to accommodate those wishing to expand their knowledge of photography and photography exhibiting.http://www.icp.org/museum
What else is at the International Center of Photography?You can also view the works of
Ruth Gerber, a photojournalist who has taken such iconic pictures as those which documented the voyage of Exodus 1947. This was a ship carrying Jewish refugees which was denied entrance to Palestine by British ships. Photographs showing families and friends being reunited and injuries suffered by those on board the ship brought the plight of Jews trying to re-enter Palestine to international attention.
What are the Museum Hours and Admission Prices?The museum is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10:00 AM until 6:00PM. On Friday, hours are 10:00 AM until 8:00PM. Saturday and Sunday hours are 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM.
The museum is closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
General admission is $12 for adults and $8 for students who can show a valid ID. Senior citizens also get in for $8. ICP members and children under 12 are free.
