MTA Unveils Collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History

Photo: Marc A. Hermann / MTA

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  

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 B, C 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.    

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 Licensing 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.