museum of chinese in america {moca}

After seeing signs for the new Museum of Chinese in America {MOCA} for some time now, it has opened and I went fora visit. The 12,000 square feet of former industrial space now tells a story of the presence of Chinese-Americans from the 1700s to present day. This space located in Chinatown is designed by Maya Lin {who is no stranger on this blog} and has a really nice facade on Centre Street. It's modern and tasteful - which I think is a nice first impression for the Museum and the people it honors. Highlighting the past and present of Chinatown {in NYC, as well as all over the country}, a visitor can read and see how the Chinese in the US have endured so much throughout time, have survived a tough history, and have accomplished so much. The museum has interactive elements, videos, anecdotes, old photo collections, original artwork from the various time periods {some samples below}. There is also a temporary exhibit called HERE & NOW of contemporary Chinese-American artists and their work {my favorite was the bottom photo if hanging Chinese and English books that all had view-holes carved into them with little figurines inside. Oh, and Thursdays grant free admission...nice.