There is so much history all around us. Oftentimes, it comes as a pleasant surprise when what is deemed mundane in these modern times tells a deeper story from a bygone era. History has the power to transcend these transient borders, and even the age-old trade of barbering has a magnificent tale to tell. The NYC Barber Shop Museum harkens back to the profession’s rich history, educating people from all walks of life on the beauty beneath the beloved barbering craft.
The NYC Barber Shop Museum was founded by 4th Generation Master Barber Arthur Rubinoff. Rubinoff is no stranger to the world of barbering. Throughout the years, he has earned his keep as a prominent figure in the industry, championing several ventures that have allowed him to make an indelible mark in the world of barbering and beyond.
Arthur Rubinoff is a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist who has gained an impeccable reputation for his work as the CEO at Reamir & Co Barbershops in New York and the REAMIR Men’s Grooming Product Line. Mr. Rubinoff is also the developer of the social “NYC Barber on Wheels” project, owner of the educational platform barberonline.org, and just recently, the designer of exclusive Barber apparel.
With a great number of projects in the realm of barbering, it’s no surprise why Mr. Rubinoff has become such a triumphant authority in the space. He attributes much of his passion for the trade to his father’s ever-lingering influence. “My father was a third-generation barber in our family and had always been running barbershops, where I spent my childhood and started helping since I was a kid,” fondly recalled Arthur Rubinoff.
“There were some ups and downs in my approach to barbering, but he was always the one who brought me back to it. He was an example of dedication and taught me to respect and love the craft. My father was the one to give me an idea for a museum. He was the first one who started collecting small pieces, just out of love.” he added.
With his father’s untimely passing, Arthur Rubinoff now carries the torch and leads the charge toward growing the barbering industry while also unraveling its historical roots. The NYC Barber Shop Museum brings a whole new meaning to the art of barbering, shedding light on the history of the age-old barbering profession.
Mr. Rubinoff’s remarkable initiative has successfully elevated the craft to an unprecedented level. What started out as Arthur Rubinoff’s collection of beloved pieces has now grown into a tapestry of rare artifacts prominently displayed at the NYC Barber Shop Museum. Since opening the museum, Mr. Rubinoff has received several donations from other passionate barbers and enthusiasts, allowing the project to grow organically in the process.
Education and inspiration are at the crux of the NYC Barber Shop Museum. Since opening its doors to the public, the museum has brought forth a new kind of respect and passion for the craft, not just in barbers but to the general populace as well. The museum offers a plethora of different activities for people of all ages. Apart from barbering school classes and professional training, the museum also organizes tours for children and college students.
With the hopes of bringing this knowledge to the mainstream, NYC Barber Shop Museum has hosted some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, such as a photoshoot for Fenti by Rihanna, an incredible collab with Sarah Coleman, and a project featuring a reupholstered antique Koken’s barber chair with Louis Vuitton leather. Passionate about the growth of the museum, Mr. Rubinoff has vouched to allocate all the proceeds from his Men’s Grooming Product Line, REAMIR, to the NYC Barber Shop Museum.
Recently, the NYC Barber Shop Museum announced its foray into the digital age with a virtual tour. This bold initiative allows people from all over the world to traverse the hallowed halls of this prestigious institution from the comforts of their own homes. As we slowly usher in the new year, the NYC Barber Shop Museum is poised to reopen its doors to the public, with Arthur Rubinoff hoping to make the announcement in early 2023.
