The League's Legacy

From Georgia O’Keeffe to Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko to Louise Nevelson, Ai Weiwei to James Little, the Art Students League has been a major force in shaping American art. Created in 1875, at the dawn of New York’s influence in the international art scene, a small group of tenacious artists broke off from the National Academy of Design.

The League’s Legacy

1875

1875
A group of disaffected art students form an association they call the Art Students League of New York.
A group of disaffected art students form an association they call the Art Students League of New York.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Their goals include pursuing "a higher development in Art studies," encouraging "a spirit of unselfishness and true friendship among its members," and "imparting... valuable information pertaining to Art as acquired by any of its members."

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1875
Lemuel Wilmarth is the League’s first instructor.
Lemuel Wilmarth is the League’s first instructor.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1875
A constitution is established.
A constitution is established.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

The League's constitution states that "the League shall be composed of artists and students who intend to make Art a profession," and stipulates that the Board elect a Vice President nominated by women as well as a Vice President nominated by men.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1877
The curriculum expands to include portrait and composition classes, as well as lectures on anatomy and perspective.
The curriculum expands to include portrait and composition classes, as well as lectures on anatomy and perspective.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Instructor Michael Burban currently teaches anatomy at the League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1878
Artists like J. Carroll Beckwith and William Merritt Chase are hired as instructors upon their return from Europe, where they’ve been studying Old Masters.
Artists like J. Carroll Beckwith and William Merritt Chase are hired as instructors upon their return from Europe, where they’ve been studying Old Masters.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

William Merritt Chase, "Self Portrait in 4th Avenue Studio", 1915, oil on canvas. Collection of Richmond Art Museum.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1879
The League introduces its first tuition relief program.
The League introduces its first tuition relief program.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1882
The League moves to 38 West 14th Street.
The League moves to 38 West 14th Street.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

At its new location, the League expands to include six instructors and approximately 400 art students.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1884
Student Concours begin.
Student Concours begin.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

These annual exhibitions of current student work have continued to this day and are now known as the Student Salons.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1887
The League moves to 143-147 East 23rd Street.
The League moves to 143-147 East 23rd Street.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1889
Kenyon Cox designs a seal which becomes the League's original logo, and is affectionately known as the Muse.
Kenyon Cox designs a seal which becomes the League's original logo, and is affectionately known as the Muse.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Kenyon Cox, "Study for the Seal of the Art Students League of New York", 1889, pencil, 18.5 x 15 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students of League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1890
Former student Charles Dana Gibson publishes the first of his many Gibson Girl illustrations.
Former student Charles Dana Gibson publishes the first of his many Gibson Girl illustrations.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Charles Dana Gibson, "The Weaker Sex: The young man imagines himself the latest victim of some fair entomologist", 1903.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1892
The League moves to its current home at 215 W 57th Street.
The League moves to its current home at 215 W 57th Street.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

The new school is designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, master of the skyscraper and designer of The Dakota Apartments and the Plaza Hotel.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1892
Frank Vincent Dumond begins teaching his influential "prismatic palette" technique.
Frank Vincent Dumond begins teaching his influential "prismatic palette" technique.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Frank Vincent DuMond, "Margaree Forks", c. 1920, oil on canvas. Collection of the Bruce Museum.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1892
George Washington Vanderbilt donates funds needed to build a gallery.
George Washington Vanderbilt donates funds needed to build a gallery.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Art Students League, American Fine Arts Society building on West 57th Street. Collection of the Museum of the City of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1895
Mary Lawrence Tonetti becomes the first woman instructor to teach at the League.
Mary Lawrence Tonetti becomes the first woman instructor to teach at the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

The Werner Company, Picture of statue of Columbus by Mary Lawrence, 1894.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1898
George Bridgman, considered the greatest anatomy teacher of his time, is hired as an instructor. Later, Norman Rockwell and Jackson Pollock are among his students.
George Bridgman, considered the greatest anatomy teacher of his time, is hired as an instructor. Later, Norman Rockwell and Jackson Pollock are among his students.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

George Brant Bridgman, "Untitled", pencil, 8 x 5.75 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1901
The League establishes a permanent collection focused on preserving artwork by its students and instructors.
The League establishes a permanent collection focused on preserving artwork by its students and instructors.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Georgia O’Keeffe, "Dead Rabbit with Copper Pot", 1908, oil on canvas, 19 x 23½ in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1902
Instructor Frank Vincent Dumond abolishes entrance requirements for his life drawing class, inspiring the tradition of open enrollment that continues to this day.
Instructor Frank Vincent Dumond abolishes entrance requirements for his life drawing class, inspiring the tradition of open enrollment that continues to this day.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Frank DuMond with Arts Students League class, c. 1910. Frank Vincent DuMond papers, 1866-1982. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1905
The League introduces new classes in commercial design (including engraving, printing, and advertising).
The League introduces new classes in commercial design (including engraving, printing, and advertising).
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1907
Charles Henry White introduces the League’s first course in printmaking.
Charles Henry White introduces the League’s first course in printmaking.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Charles Henry White, "The Condemned Tenement, NY", 1906, etching. Collection of the National Gallery of Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1908
Eugene Speicher, a painting student, completes a portrait of his classmate, a young Georgia O’Keeffe.
Eugene Speicher, a painting student, completes a portrait of his classmate, a young Georgia O’Keeffe.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Eugene Edward Spiecher, "Portrait of Georgia O'Keeffe", 1908, oil on canvas, 22.5 x 17.5 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1913
The International Exhibition of Modern Art (commonly known as the Armory Show) includes the work of several League artists.
The International Exhibition of Modern Art (commonly known as the Armory Show) includes the work of several League artists.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

John Sloan, "A slight attack of third dimentia brought on by excessive study of the much-talked of cubist pictures in the International Exhibition at New York", 1913.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1917
Former student James Montgomery Flagg's rendition of Uncle Sam is first printed on recruitment posters.
Former student James Montgomery Flagg's rendition of Uncle Sam is first printed on recruitment posters.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

James Montgomery Flagg, "I Want You for U.S. Army", 1917.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1919
Caricaturist and printmaker Peggy Bacon produces prints depicting classes at the League, inspired by her time as a student.
Caricaturist and printmaker Peggy Bacon produces prints depicting classes at the League, inspired by her time as a student.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Peggy Bacon, "The Bellows Class", 1922.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1920
Daniel Chester French, a former instructor, completes a massive sculpture of the 16th President of the United States, which resides in the Lincoln Memorial.
Daniel Chester French, a former instructor, completes a massive sculpture of the 16th President of the United States, which resides in the Lincoln Memorial.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Daniel Chester French, "Abraham Lincoln", 1920.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1921
Art critic Forbes Watson conducts his first art history lecture at the League.
Art critic Forbes Watson conducts his first art history lecture at the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1923
Alexander Calder enrolls at the League, where his father, A. Stirling Calder, was an instructor.
Alexander Calder enrolls at the League, where his father, A. Stirling Calder, was an instructor.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Alexander Calder, "Untitled", print, 30 x 43 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1924
Louise Nevelson begins studying at the League, where she will befriend fellow student Mark Rothko.
Louise Nevelson begins studying at the League, where she will befriend fellow student Mark Rothko.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Louise Nevelson, "Untitled (#41008)", 1982, mixed media, 22 x 18 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1926
The League begins offering Saturday classes for children.
The League begins offering Saturday classes for children.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Amy Weiskopf teaches Aspiring Artists, an advanced class for high school students who show advanced talent and skill in painting.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1926
Milton Avery begins attending classes at the League, where he befriends fellow students Adolph Gottlieb, Barnett Newman, and Mark Rothko.
Milton Avery begins attending classes at the League, where he befriends fellow students Adolph Gottlieb, Barnett Newman, and Mark Rothko.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Milton Avery, "Untitled", 1945, watercolor on paper, 9 x 12 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1927
Dorothy Dehner convinces her future husband, the sculptor David Smith, to enroll at the League, where she is also a student.
Dorothy Dehner convinces her future husband, the sculptor David Smith, to enroll at the League, where she is also a student.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Dorothy Dehner "Sanctum with Window I", 1990, 32 x 37 x 13 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1928
Former student Wanda Gág publishes "Millions of Cats", one her most famous children’s books.
Former student Wanda Gág publishes "Millions of Cats", one her most famous children’s books.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Wanda Gág, "Millions of Cats"

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1928
Cedric Gibbons, a former student, designs the Academy of Motion Pictures statuette, later known as the Oscar.
Cedric Gibbons, a former student, designs the Academy of Motion Pictures statuette, later known as the Oscar.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Former League students Gene Hackman and Jane Fonda holding the Gibbons-designed statuettes they were awarded at the 44th Academy Awards in 1972.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1930
Jackson Pollock enrolls at the League and begins studying with Thomas Hart Benton.
Jackson Pollock enrolls at the League and begins studying with Thomas Hart Benton.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Jackson Pollock, Charles Pollock, and Manuel Tolegian, 1930. Photographer unknown. Charles Pollock papers, 1875–1994. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1932
Board President John Sloan and League students protest the League Board’s refusal to hire German artist George Grosz. Grosz is eventually hired.
Board President John Sloan and League students protest the League Board’s refusal to hire German artist George Grosz. Grosz is eventually hired.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

George Grosz, "The Crucified Ham", 1950, oil on canvas, 28 x 21 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1932
Hans Hofmann begins teaching at the League.
Hans Hofmann begins teaching at the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Hans Hofmann, "The Golden Wall", 1961. Oil on canvas, 152.4 x 183.5 cm (60 x 72 1/4 in.), unframed. Titled and signed on verso; upper right in black pen: the golden wall, oil on canvas, 1961, Hans Hofmann. Mr. and Mrs. Frank G. Logan Purchase Prize Fund.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1932
League student Hildreth Meière's work is installed on the façade of Radio City Music Hall.
League student Hildreth Meière's work is installed on the façade of Radio City Music Hall.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Hildreth Meiere, "Dance, Drama, and Song", 1932.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1934
Paul Manship, who studied anatomy at the League with George Bridgman, is the artist behind a gilded cast bronze statue newly installed in Rockefeller Center.
Paul Manship, who studied anatomy at the League with George Bridgman, is the artist behind a gilded cast bronze statue newly installed in Rockefeller Center.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Paul Manship, "Prometheus", 1934.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1936
As the League's master printer, former student Will Barnet mentors thousands of artists, including Audrey Flack, Knox Martin, James Rosenquist, and Cy Twombly.
As the League's master printer, former student Will Barnet mentors thousands of artists, including Audrey Flack, Knox Martin, James Rosenquist, and Cy Twombly.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Jacob Burckhardt. Will Barnet and students printing at the Art Students League., c. 1930. Will Barnet papers, 1897, 1929-2016. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1937
League students Paul Cadmus and Jared French, along with Margaret French, form the artist collective PaJaMa.
League students Paul Cadmus and Jared French, along with Margaret French, form the artist collective PaJaMa.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Paul Cadmus, "The Fleet's In!", 1934, Etching, plate: 7 1/2 x 14 in., The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of George Platt Lynes.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1940
The Dream Ball, which helps to fund League scholarships, and celebrates a joyful, irreverent side of the art world, begins.
The Dream Ball, which helps to fund League scholarships, and celebrates a joyful, irreverent side of the art world, begins.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Costumes parties were a long tradition at the League, and ultimately became the famous Dream Ball.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1940
League alum Will Eisner launches the first comic books featuring his iconic character, The Spirit.
League alum Will Eisner launches the first comic books featuring his iconic character, The Spirit.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Will Eisner, "The Double Jones", The Star Ledger, Sunday, 11 March 1951

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1941
When the U.S. government sets travel restrictions on Japanese Americans, the League submits a “Statement of Faith” in support of beloved instructor Yasuo Kuniyoshi to the Associated Press.
When the U.S. government sets travel restrictions on Japanese Americans, the League submits a “Statement of Faith” in support of beloved instructor Yasuo Kuniyoshi to the Associated Press.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Peter A. Juley & Son. Yasuo Kuniyoshi with students and instructors at the Art Students League, circa 1950. Yasuo Kuniyoshi papers, 1906-2016. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1942
Future League instructor Jacob Lawrence becomes the first Black artist whose work is acquired by The Museum of Modern Art.
Future League instructor Jacob Lawrence becomes the first Black artist whose work is acquired by The Museum of Modern Art.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

The Life of John Brown, no. 21. After John Brown's capture, he was put to trial for his life in Charles Town, Virginia. 1941. Gouache and tempera on paper. 13 5/8 x 19 7/8 in. Courtesy of The Jacob and Gwendolyn Lawrence Foundation / Art Resource, NY

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1942
The League introduces classes in cartooning.
The League introduces classes in cartooning.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Anthony Palumbo, "Comic Strip (Hurdles)", c. 1948, pen on paper, 7.25 x 2.3 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1944
The League organizes a Veteran Scholarship Fund for service men and women returning from World War II.
The League organizes a Veteran Scholarship Fund for service men and women returning from World War II.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

A Veteran artist submits his work to be included in an exhibition at the League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1945
The League introduces classes in art direction for publishing.
The League introduces classes in art direction for publishing.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

E. Simms Campbell, A Night Club Map of Harlem, 1933, Dell Publishing Company, Inc.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1946
Former League student Florine Stettheimer is the subject of the first-ever retrospective of the work of a female artist at the Museum of Modern Art.
Former League student Florine Stettheimer is the subject of the first-ever retrospective of the work of a female artist at the Museum of Modern Art.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Florine Stettheimer, "Spring Sale at Bendel's", 1920, oil on canvas. Collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1946
In response to a massive influx of students fueled by returning G.I.s., the League's first floor galleries are converted into studios.
In response to a massive influx of students fueled by returning G.I.s., the League's first floor galleries are converted into studios.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Students with instructor Knox Martin, who taught in Studio 15, part of the former Vanderbilt Gallery, for thirty-nine years.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1947
The League introduces fashion illustration classes.
The League introduces fashion illustration classes.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

An illustration by League instructor Chuck Nitzberg, who currently teaches fashion illustration at the League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1948
Former student Robert Blackburn establishes the highly influential Printmaking Workshop.
Former student Robert Blackburn establishes the highly influential Printmaking Workshop.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Robert Blackburn, "Youth", ink, 10.37 x 12.5 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1949
Susan Weil introduces her husband Robert Rauschenberg to the League, where he befriends Cy Twombly, and is a student of Morris Kantor.
Susan Weil introduces her husband Robert Rauschenberg to the League, where he befriends Cy Twombly, and is a student of Morris Kantor.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Robert Rauschenberg "Retroactive II", 1963, oil, silkscreen, and ink on canvas, 80 x 60 in. Collection of the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1950
Charles Alston becomes the first Black artist hired to teach at the League.
Charles Alston becomes the first Black artist hired to teach at the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Charles Alston, "Red, White, and Black", c. 1960, oil on canvas, 50 in. x 40 in. Permanent Collection, Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1950
Alum Jack Kamen begins working for EC Comics, where he will enjoy a prolific career drawing romance, crime, humor, horror, and science-fiction stories, including Tales from the Crypt.
Alum Jack Kamen begins working for EC Comics, where he will enjoy a prolific career drawing romance, crime, humor, horror, and science-fiction stories, including Tales from the Crypt.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Jack Kamen, Cover from Rulah #19, 1948

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1952
The League’s begins issuing a Certificate in Fine Arts.
The League’s begins issuing a Certificate in Fine Arts.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Andrew Drilon (Graduate of the Art Students League Certificate Program 2020), "DC Comics Concert", digital illustration, 22 in. x 17 in. Created for DC Comics.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1955
The young James Rosenquist is awarded a scholarship to attend the League.
The young James Rosenquist is awarded a scholarship to attend the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

James Rosenquist, "Headlines", 1976, etching, 5.8 x 11.75 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1955
Future instructor Charles Hinman enrolls at the League, where he studies with Morris Kantor, and befriends James Rosenquist and Lee Bontecou.
Future instructor Charles Hinman enrolls at the League, where he studies with Morris Kantor, and befriends James Rosenquist and Lee Bontecou.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Charles B. Hinman"Poltergeist", 1964, synthetic polymer paint on shaped canvas over wood framework, 8' 2 3/4 x 61 7/8 x 16 3/8 in. Collection of The Museum of Modern Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1956
Harvey Dinnerstein, who went on to teach at the League, captures the ongoing Montgomery Bus Boycott in pencil, including a portrait of Rosa Parks.
Harvey Dinnerstein, who went on to teach at the League, captures the ongoing Montgomery Bus Boycott in pencil, including a portrait of Rosa Parks.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Harvey Dinnerstein, "Mrs. Rosa Parks, Montgomery", 1956, graphite and pastel on gray laid paper, 11 15/16 × 11 in. Collection of the Delaware Art Museum.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1958
The League installs elevators at 215 W 57th Street.
The League installs elevators at 215 W 57th Street.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1958
Yayoi Kusama moves to New York and enrolls at the League as an international student.
Yayoi Kusama moves to New York and enrolls at the League as an international student.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

"Love Forever: Yayoi Kusama, 1958-1968", The Museum of Modern Art, New York, ca. 1998. The Museum of Modern Art Library, New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1959
Instructor José de Creeft’s sculpture of Alice in Wonderland is unveiled in Central Park.
Instructor José de Creeft’s sculpture of Alice in Wonderland is unveiled in Central Park.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Lorrie Goulet, Donna Maria de Creeft, and José de Creeft at the inauguration of his sculpture "Alice in Wonderland" in Central Park, 1959 May 7. José de Creeft papers, 1871-2004. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1960
League alumna Ramona Fradon, one of the few women working as comic book illustrators at the time, co-creates Aqualad.
League alumna Ramona Fradon, one of the few women working as comic book illustrators at the time, co-creates Aqualad.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Ramona Fradon, "Aqualad"

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1963
Former student Roy Lichtenstein is the subject of his first solo exhibition at the Leo Castelli gallery.
Former student Roy Lichtenstein is the subject of his first solo exhibition at the Leo Castelli gallery.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Roy Lichtenstein, "Times Square Mural", 1994. Permanent Art Collection, MTA Arts & Design.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1964
Leading anatomy instructor Robert Beverly Hale publishes Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters.
Leading anatomy instructor Robert Beverly Hale publishes Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Cover of "Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters" by Robert Beverly Hale, 1989. Published by Watson-Guptill.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1967
Alumnus Paul Thek constructs a wax cast of his own body inside the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Alumnus Paul Thek constructs a wax cast of his own body inside the Whitney Museum of American Art.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Paul Thek "Untitled" from the series "Technological Reliquaries", 1966, wax, paint, polymer resin, nylon monofilament, wire, plaster, plywood, melamine laminate, rhodium-plated bronze, and acrylic, 14 × 15 1/16 × 7 1/2 in. Collection of the Whitney Museum of American Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1968
The League introduces off-site classes in metal sculpture.
The League introduces off-site classes in metal sculpture.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Metal sculpture is now taught in the building at 215 W 57th Street. Photo by Max Burkhalter.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1968
215 W 57th Street is designated a New York City landmark.
215 W 57th Street is designated a New York City landmark.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1969
League instructors Romare Bearden, Ernest Crichlow, and Norman Lewis found the Cinque Gallery, which exhibits the work of minority artists for more than three decades.
League instructors Romare Bearden, Ernest Crichlow, and Norman Lewis found the Cinque Gallery, which exhibits the work of minority artists for more than three decades.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Norman Lewis, "Untitled", 1976, oil paint, 50 x 72 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1973
Former League student, and future League instructor, Ronnie Landfield is included in the first-ever Whitney Biennial.
Former League student, and future League instructor, Ronnie Landfield is included in the first-ever Whitney Biennial.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Ronnie Landfield, "Hezikiah", 1969. Courtesy of the Sheldon Museum of Art, Lincoln, Nebraska.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1977
Former League student Milton Glaser designs the “I Heart New York” campaign.
Former League student Milton Glaser designs the “I Heart New York” campaign.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Milton Glaser, "I (Heart) NY concept sketch", 1976, ink and tape on paper envelope, 2 7/8 x 3 5/8 in. Collection of The Museum of Modern Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1983
The first full-scale retrospective of the work of League student Fairfield Porter is held at the Boston Museum of Fine Art.
The first full-scale retrospective of the work of League student Fairfield Porter is held at the Boston Museum of Fine Art.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Fairfield Porter, "Katie", 1964, oil paint, 15 x 14.5 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1986
League alum Jules Feiffer is awarded a Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Cartooning.
League alum Jules Feiffer is awarded a Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Cartooning.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Jules Feiffer, seated at work on cartoon, facing front, 1958. Photo by Dick Demarsico. Published by World Telegram & Sun.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1989
The Simpsons, featuring characters by League alumnus Dan Haskett, premieres.
The Simpsons, featuring characters by League alumnus Dan Haskett, premieres.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Logo of the American animated sitcom The Simpsons. 20th Television Animation.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1995
The Phyllis H. Mason grant for traditional painting is established.
The Phyllis H. Mason grant for traditional painting is established.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Phyllis H. Mason, "Block Island", oil paint, 7 x 14 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
1998
The Nessa Cohen grant for students working in sculpture or mixed media established.
The Nessa Cohen grant for students working in sculpture or mixed media established.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Allison Green (recipient of the 2024 Nessa Cohen grant), "Large Collar 1", 2024.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2002
The Xavier Gonzalez and Ethel Edwards Travel grant to Spain is established.
The Xavier Gonzalez and Ethel Edwards Travel grant to Spain is established.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Xavier Gonzalez, "Self Portrait", 1985, oil, 60 x 42 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2003
The Martin Beck theater is renamed in honor of League alum and beloved caricaturist of Broadway, Al Hirschfeld.
The Martin Beck theater is renamed in honor of League alum and beloved caricaturist of Broadway, Al Hirschfeld.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Al Hirschfeld, "Caricature of the three actors featured in the play '42nd Street'". Collection of the Museum of the City of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2004
The first in-depth retrospective of the work of League alum Lee Bontecou is held at MoMA QNS.
The first in-depth retrospective of the work of League alum Lee Bontecou is held at MoMA QNS.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2007
Former League student George Tooker is awarded a National Medal of the Arts.
Former League student George Tooker is awarded a National Medal of the Arts.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

George Tooker, "Study for 'The Subway'", 1949. George Tooker papers, circa 1851-2010. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2009
League alum Carmen Herrera sells her first artwork at the age of 89.
League alum Carmen Herrera sells her first artwork at the age of 89.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Carmen Herrera "Untitled", 1952, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 25 x 60 in. Collection of The Museum of Modern Art.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2009
Instructor Deborah Winiarski begins teaching encaustic at the League.
Instructor Deborah Winiarski begins teaching encaustic at the League.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Deborah Winiarski, "Fenestra", 2019, fabric, encaustic, oil, pastel on panel, 72 x 48 x 5 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2010
Seeds of the League, a community program that brings art classes to underserved students and offers scholarships to the League, is established.
Seeds of the League, a community program that brings art classes to underserved students and offers scholarships to the League, is established.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

K.C. Amable, "Dancing with Mariana", 18 x 14 in., oil on panel.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2011
Works in Public, a League program that gives artists an opportunity to conceive of and execute large-scale, site-specific public artwork, begins.
Works in Public, a League program that gives artists an opportunity to conceive of and execute large-scale, site-specific public artwork, begins.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Works in Public artists Patricia Espinosa, Sydney Shen, Henry Roundtrip Marton Newman, and Malin Abrahammsson standing in front of Shen's "SBNO (Standing But Not Operating)", 2024

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2011
League alum Norman Rockwell’s painting of the young Ruby Bridges is displayed in the White House.
League alum Norman Rockwell’s painting of the young Ruby Bridges is displayed in the White House.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

President Barack Obama, Ruby Bridges, and representatives of the Norman Rockwell Museum view Rockwell’s "The Problem We All Live With,” hanging in a West Wing hallway near the Oval Office, July 15, 2011. Bridges is the girl portrayed the painting. Official White House Photo by Pete Souza.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2014
The work of former League student Chitra Ganesh is displayed in the Brooklyn Museum.
The work of former League student Chitra Ganesh is displayed in the Brooklyn Museum.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Chitra Ganesh, "Gravity's Dream", 2008, color screenprint with monotype, hand-flocking, and collage, 29 × 21 in. Collection of the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; gift of Brooke Garber Neidich and Daniel Neidich.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2014
Instructor Douglas Safranek, who studied with former student Paul Cadmus, reintroduces egg tempera classes.
Instructor Douglas Safranek, who studied with former student Paul Cadmus, reintroduces egg tempera classes.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Douglas Safranek, "Wonder", 2013, 12 3/8 x 13 3/4 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2015
Former League student Deborah Kass's new public artwork becomes an icon in Brooklyn.
Former League student Deborah Kass's new public artwork becomes an icon in Brooklyn.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Deborah Kass "OY/YO", 2015. 96 H x 195 L x 54.5 W inches painted aluminum. Photo courtesy of Deborah Kass / Art Resource, NY Artist:

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2015
The League begins teaching classes in ceramic sculpture.
The League begins teaching classes in ceramic sculpture.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2016
League Instructor Knox Martin is named Chevalier of the Legion of Honor for his contribution in World War II to the liberation of France.
League Instructor Knox Martin is named Chevalier of the Legion of Honor for his contribution in World War II to the liberation of France.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Knox Martin, "Woman Seated in Red Chair", oil paint, 26 x 22 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2018
League instructor Larry Poons is featured in an acclaimed documentary about the contemporary art market.
League instructor Larry Poons is featured in an acclaimed documentary about the contemporary art market.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Larry Poons , "Untitled", 1964. Screen print, 16 x 16 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2018
League instructor Robert Cenedella files a lawsuit against five major museums, accusing them of a conspiracy to control the art market.
League instructor Robert Cenedella files a lawsuit against five major museums, accusing them of a conspiracy to control the art market.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Robert Cenedella, "The Connoisseur", 1959, ink, 9.375 x 6.25 in. Permanent Collection, the Art Students League of New York.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2019
Instructor Mary Beth McKenzie's work is displayed on easel that belonged to her friend, Everett Raymond Kintsler, a portrait artist who studied at the League, and whose subjects included Gerald Ford and Ronald Regan.
Instructor Mary Beth McKenzie's work is displayed on easel that belonged to her friend, Everett Raymond Kintsler, a portrait artist who studied at the League, and whose subjects included Gerald Ford and Ronald Regan.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Mary Beth McKenzie’s portrait "Beñat" on the Kintsler easel.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2020
KinoSaito, a non-profit museum and art space built in honor of League alum Kikuo Saito's interdisciplinary practice and spirit opens in Verplanck, New York.
KinoSaito, a non-profit museum and art space built in honor of League alum Kikuo Saito's interdisciplinary practice and spirit opens in Verplanck, New York.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Kikuo Saito, "Brown Pipe", 2009, oil on canvas, 48.5 x 38.5 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2021
League alumnus Ai Weiwei is interviewed about his time as a student in the League's gallery.
League alumnus Ai Weiwei is interviewed about his time as a student in the League's gallery.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Ai Weiwei interviewed for Firing Line with Margaret Hoover, PBS, 2021.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2021
The League begins offering online classes.
The League begins offering online classes.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

From left: Costa Vavagiakis (instructor of the League's online Drawing for All Levels class), "Connie X", graphite and white chalk on paper, 18 x 14 in.; "Connie XIX", graphite and white chalk on paper, 16 1/2 x 11 3/4 in; "Connie XXI", graphite and white chalk on paper, 16 1/2 x 11 3/4 in.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2021
The career retrospective of League alumna Joan Semmel is held at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.
The career retrospective of League alumna Joan Semmel is held at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Joan Semmel, "Sunlight", 1978. Oil on canvas, 60 x 96 in. Collection of The Jewish Museum.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2022
League alumna and instructor Sharon Sprung unveils her official White House portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama.
League alumna and instructor Sharon Sprung unveils her official White House portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

Sharon Sprung, "Michelle Obama, Former First Lady of the United States", oil on panel, 44 X 36. White House Historical Assoc./White House Collection

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2022
League instructor James Little is called a “breakout star” in a New York Times review of the 2022 Whitney Biennial.
League instructor James Little is called a “breakout star” in a New York Times review of the 2022 Whitney Biennial.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

James Little "Untitled", 2024, screenprint, 31 x 40 in. Courtesy of the artist and the Art Students League of New York © 2024 James Little.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2023
The Walker Art Center organizes the first retrospective of the work of League alum Pacita Abad.
The Walker Art Center organizes the first retrospective of the work of League alum Pacita Abad.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.
2025
The League turns 150.
The League turns 150.
LEARN MORE
Edward Prescott Letter on the founding of the Art Students League.

NOTABLE ARTISTS:
No items found.