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National Academy of Design: A Legacy of American Art

Explore a legacy of American art and architecture at the National Academy of Design, promoting artistic excellence since 1825.

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Founded in 1825, the National Academy of Design in New York City is an honorary association of American artists and architects. Though the museum is currently closed to the public, the academy continues its mission to promote art through education, exhibitions, and research, boasting a significant collection of 19th, 20th, and 21st-century American art.

A brief summary to National Academy of Design

  • 519 W 26th St 2nd floor, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10001, US
  • +1212-369-4880
  • Tuesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the National Academy of Design's website for online exhibitions and virtual events during the museum's closure.
  • Explore nearby Chelsea galleries and art spaces to experience contemporary art in New York City.
  • Consider visiting other nearby museums such as the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Frick Collection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The National Academy of Design is located at 519 W 26th St, New York, NY. The closest subway stations are 23 St (A, C, E lines) and 34 St-Hudson Yards (7, 7X lines). From these stations, it's a short walk to the academy. A single subway ride costs $3.

  • Walking

    From Penn Station, walk west on 26th St for about 20 minutes. The academy is located between 10th and 11th Avenues. Enjoy the vibrant street art and galleries in the Chelsea neighborhood along the way.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Manhattan. A short ride from Penn Station or Times Square to the National Academy of Design typically costs between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and surge pricing.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the National Academy of Design. Rates typically range from $25 to $45 for a few hours. Check online parking apps like SpotHero or iPark for the best deals and availability. Street parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

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Discover more about National Academy of Design

The National Academy of Design, established in 1825, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American art and architecture. Founded by prominent artists including Samuel Morse, Asher Durand, and Thomas Cole, the academy emerged from a desire to foster artistic excellence and promote the fine arts in America through instruction and exhibition. Originally named the New York Drawing Association, the academy distinguished itself as the first art organization in the United States managed by professional artists. Over the years, it has evolved into a tripartite institution encompassing a membership body of artists and architects, a school, and an exhibition program. Membership is limited to 450 American artists and architects, elected by their peers based on recognized excellence. The National Academy's museum holds a significant collection of American art from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. The collection includes over 5,000 works in almost every artistic style of the past two centuries, and includes portraiture from the Federal Period, naturalistic landscapes of the Hudson River School and the studies of light of American Impressionism. Though the museum is currently closed to the public, the academy continues to promote art and architecture in America through exhibition, education, and research.

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