National Academy of Design Museum

The National Academy of Design is an American artists’ organization and museum located in New York City that was founded in 1825. It operates as both an academy supporting artists and a museum presenting exhibitions of American art.

Exhibition spaces present rotating shows, retrospectives and juried displays by academy members and contemporary artists. The institution also maintains a collection of works by American artists and runs educational programs aimed at practicing artists and the public.

Established in 1825 by a group of artists as an honorary society and teaching institution, the academy has played a role in American art education and exhibition for nearly two centuries. Its organizational structure has combined a member-driven academy, a teaching school and museum exhibitions.

The academy’s facilities are located in Manhattan, New York City, where it stages exhibitions and classes; the site is part of the city’s dense museum and cultural district.

• Founding: Founded in 1825 as an association of artists and designers, it combines an art school with exhibition programming and a permanent collection of American art.

Located in Manhattan-walkable from the Bowery or East Village. Nearest subway lines include the 6 at Astor Place (about a 10-12 minute walk) and the N/Q/R/W at Canal Street with a longer walk. Taxis and rideshares are convenient for door-to-door access.

• Check the calendar for opening receptions-student shows and faculty exhibitions are often free or low-cost and showcase lively work.
• The building is in Manhattan's NoHo/Greenwich Village area-pair a visit with a walk to the nearby New Museum or a coffee on Bowery.
• If seeking archives, contact the academy in advance; access to special collections is usually by appointment.