One of my most favorite places in New York City is the Museum of Modern Art (or the abbreviated MoMA). I am proud to hold an artist membership, and in my head I think of MoMA as my own personal country club. I like to stroll around the vast galleries, sit in the outdoor sculpture garden and drink a glass of white wine in one of the lovely restaurants (many, many, many glasses of white wine). I also love giving gifts from the MoMA store, which is jam-packed with design icons and fabulous finds. You get a nice discount with membership, and when you purchase from MoMA, it’s an easy path to modern design while you’re also supporting an American treasure. Here are a few of my favorite gift ideas for kids from MoMA.
Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara’s paintings, drawings and sculptures of wide-eyed children and dogs evoke a childlike wonder. This solid wood pull toy features an adorable grinning puppy with a wagging tail. This would make a very nice baby gift or piece of shelf decor.
My Sweet Dog Pull Toy by Yoshitomo Nara
I love legendary mid-century designers Charles and Ray Eames so much that I’ve chosen two of their classic pieces that would bring a very modern aesthetic and pop of color to any space. The colorful, gumball-like design of this coat rack is super cute and chic.
Eames Hang-It-All Coat Rack by Charles and Ray Eames
The second Eames piece I chose from the MoMA collection is the beauty below. It’s simple in design, but rich in history. Charles and Ray Eames won a MoMA competition to create beautiful furniture that was cost effective yet elegant—it’s “the best for the most for the least.” This rocking chair has been in production since 1949, and it is available in a rainbow of colors with or without the rocking base. There are knockoff versions, but I prefer the real thing. It is a design icon and a lasting piece that you can use to rock your baby to sleep and then pass down so that he or she may continue to use it for many moons to come.
Eames Molded Fiberglass Armchair by Charles and Ray Eames
Two very different mobiles are hanging out below. The first one was inspired by the modern shapes of Calder. It is a very easy-to-assemble DIY mobile kit that allows you to create your own work of art. Easy deconstruction and reassembly allows you to rearrange the shapes at will! Design is fun!
Modern Mobile Kit by Jay Jones
This sailing ship is actually a grand kite! Yes, you can fly it in the sky or choose to hang it from the ceiling—I think it would make a wonderful objet d’art for the nursery! The navy, white and hot pink color palette could not be more on trend.
Sailing Ship Kite by Emily Fischer
Last but not least is a vibrant print of LOVE, the striking 1967 work by Robert Indiana that is featured in MoMA’s collection. This is an iconic piece that is sure to express your love in a very stylish way. This giclée reproduction is printed on archival paper and available matted or unmatted.
LOVE Framed Print by Robert Indiana
In need of a gift or design inspiration? MoMA is a wonderful place to start, and if you can’t make it to NYC, you can always explore the collection online. It’s an amazing internet treasure, fabulous to browse during 3am feedings or just when you need a big dose of artful culture.