MTA Unveils Collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History

Limited-Edition Merchandise Collection Features Art from the 81 St-Museum of Natural History Subway Station to Celebrate 40 Years of MTA Arts & Design

Opportunity for MTA to Partner with Iconic NYC Institutions and Brands

See Video and Photos of the Limited-Edition Merchandise

See Video and Photos of Today's Event

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today unveiled a first-of-its-kind, limited-edition merchandise collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in celebration of the 40th anniversary of MTA Arts & Design. The capsule collection draws inspiration from artwork at the 81 St-Museum of Natural History subway station.

The station's expansive mixed-media art installation, titled "For Want of a Nail," compromises glass mosaic, glass tile, ceramic tile, granite, and bronze relief. It was developed by MTA Arts & Design in partnership with AMNH staff and community members and installed in 2000. The designs reflect the broad scope of the Museum's renowned collections and exhibitions, celebrating the intersection of science, art, and the everyday journeys of transit riders.

"Transit's not just a way to get from point A to point B, it's a cultural experience," said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. "Few stations make the point better than 81 St-Museum of Natural History with its stunning mosaics, and we hope this will be the first of many location-based collections between the MTA and iconic New York institutions like this one."

"Most of our visitors and staff arrive at the Museum by subway through one of the most iconic and beautiful stations in the system," said American Museum of Natural History President Sean M. Decatur. "A journey of discovery begins the minute you step off the train and encounter spectacular art installations that reflect the wide range of the Museum's scientific work and exhibitions, thanks to Arts for Transit and our longstanding partnership with the MTA. We're delighted now to build on our partnership, enabling visitors to bring home a souvenir both of their time at the Museum and their travel through the 81 St-Museum of Natural History station."

"Thanks to public transit, you're never more than a tap away from a T-Rex," said MTA Deputy Chief of Commercial Ventures Jessie Lazarus. "We love that the subway brings millions of riders every year to this cherished cultural institution's front door and are proud to launch this first-of-a-kind merchandise collection inspired by the public artwork in the 81 St-Museum of Natural History station. Stay tuned for more location-based collaborations that celebrate more of the amazing places the MTA can take you in the region - and generate funds that help deliver frequent, reliable transit service."

"This collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History brings to life one of the most iconic works in our system and celebrates 40 years of MTA Arts & Design's commitment to bringing art everywhere to everyone," said MTA Arts & Design Director Tina Vaz. "We look forward to seeing these beloved designs above ground and out in the world."

The collection apparel and accessories for all ages - adult and children's t-shirts, a fleece sweatshirt, water bottle, tote, backpack, hat, stickers, magnets and collectible pins. Merchandise is available exclusively at the AMNH Gift Shop and online store while supplies last.

This initiative reflects the MTA's ongoing commitment to enriching the transit experience through art, culture and community partnerships. It also invites New Yorkers and visitors alike to engage with public transit and natural history in a new and tangible way. The collaboration is part of a broader initiative to generate incremental revenue for the MTA through activities such as licensing and advertising.

The MTA partners with the global licensing firm IMG to manage the MTA's licensed intellectual property program for consumer products. The MTA earns royalties on products sold within categories including apparel, accessories, home goods, stationery, publishing, toys and games. For more information on the MTA's licensing program visit the MTA's website or IMG's dedicated page for MTA.