Art Students League Of New York

Art Students League of New York: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Midtown Manhattan, the Art Students League of New York (ASL) stands as one of the nation’s most influential art institutions. Founded in 1875, the League has been pivotal in shaping American art movements and remains a vibrant center for artistic education, exhibitions, and community engagement. Housed in a landmark Beaux-Arts building designed by Henry J. Hardenbergh, the League has nurtured generations of artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Norman Rockwell (Art Students League Official Site; Visual Arts Cork; Ask A New Yorker).

This guide is designed to help you plan your visit—covering hours, admission, guided tours, accessibility, exhibitions, and practical tips. It also highlights the League’s rich legacy, its ongoing impact on American art, and ways to make the most of your experience, whether you’re a student, art lover, or visitor exploring New York’s cultural landscape.

Introduction
Visiting Hours and Admission
Tickets and Guided Tours
Location and Accessibility
Exhibitions and Events
Facilities and Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Opportunities for Deeper Engagement
Visitor Etiquette
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Historical Overview
Contact Information
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Painting of a serene alcove with several art students sketching and painting in a lush garden setting

Proposed architectural design for the American Fine Arts Society Building in New York from 1891

Visiting Hours and Admission

Galleries:
Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
[Sunday: Closed (Student Salons 2025)](#sunday:-closed-(student-salons-2025))
Building Hours:
Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturdays: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
[Sundays: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Sundays Memorial Day through Labor Day) (Art Students League)](#sundays:-8:30-am-–-4:00-pm-(closed-sundays-memorial-day-through-labor-day)-(art-students-league))

Admission:
General admission to the Phyllis Harriman Mason Gallery and public exhibitions is free. Some special events or guided tours may require advance registration or a nominal fee (Art Students League).

Tickets and Guided Tours

General Admission: No tickets required for standard exhibitions and galleries.
Guided Tours: Offered periodically, especially during special events or in partnership with organizations like Untapped New York. Advance registration may be required (Untapped Cities).
School and Group Visits: Available by appointment.

Location and Accessibility

Address: 215 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019 (Art Students League)
Public Transit:
- Subway: N, Q, R, W to 57th Street–Seventh Ave; A, B, C, D, 1 to 59th Street–Columbus Circle
- Bus: Multiple lines along 57th Street and Seventh Avenue
Parking: Limited street parking; several nearby garages (costly).
Accessibility: Building is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms. For specific needs, contact 212-247-4510, ext. 6 (ASL Resources).

Exhibitions and Events

Phyllis Harriman Mason Gallery:
Hosts rotating exhibitions—student salons, instructor retrospectives, and themed shows. The League’s permanent collection features works by alumni such as Alexander Calder, Charles Alston, and Georgia O’Keeffe (ASL Exhibitions).
Public Art Installations:
“Works in Public” includes site-specific sculptures in Riverside Park and other locations (Art Students League).
150th Anniversary:
In 2025, the League celebrates its 150th anniversary with special exhibitions, events, and the restoration of its historic skylight roof, funded by a $4.3 million NYC grant (NYC.gov; The Art Newspaper; Art Students League 150th Anniversary).

Facilities and Amenities

Historic Studios:
Sunlit spaces where students and instructors create and exhibit art.
Gallery Spaces:
Open to the public, offering a broad range of media and styles.
Art Supply Store:
Stocks supplies for students and visitors (Untapped Cities).
Cafeteria:
Historic third-floor space adorned with student art.
Wi-Fi & Lounges:
Free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating areas.

Nearby Attractions

Central Park
Carnegie Hall
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Times Square
All within a short walk, making the League an excellent addition to your Midtown itinerary (The Globetrotting Teacher; Go Far Grow Close).

Travel Tips

Public Transit is recommended due to limited parking.
Weekdays are quieter, ideal for exploring galleries.
December features the popular Holiday Show & Sale.
Combine your visit with nearby landmarks for a full day of art and culture.

Opportunities for Deeper Engagement

Classes & Workshops:
Over 100 classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, and more. No portfolio required; monthly registration averages $280 (How to Get Started; 6sqft).
Open Sketch Sessions:
Visitors may attend up to three sessions without annual fee.
Membership:
Gain access to exclusive resources and events; participate in the League’s artist-run governance (ASL Policies).
Online Classes:
Available through the League’s e-telier platform (How It Works).

Visitor Etiquette

Photography:
Allowed in public galleries; not permitted in classrooms or studios. Respect posted guidelines (ASL Policies).
Respect Classes:
Avoid entering studios during instruction.
Personal Belongings:
Secure your items, especially during crowded events.
Accessibility Needs:
Contact the League in advance for accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are there fees to visit the Art Students League galleries?
A: No, general admission to public exhibitions is free.

Q: Do I need tickets for special events or tours?
A: Some special events or guided tours may require tickets or registration—check the website for details.

Q: Is the League wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the facility is accessible; contact the office for specific needs.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is allowed in galleries but not in classrooms or studios.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: During major exhibitions, such as Student Salons or the Instructors’ Exhibition.

Historical Overview

The Art Students League was founded in 1875 as an independent, artist-run alternative to the National Academy of Design. Its open enrollment policy, atelier teaching model, and student-led governance fostered a creative and inclusive environment. The League’s alumni have shaped major American art movements—including the Ashcan School, Abstract Expressionism, and Minimalism (Visual Arts Cork; Art Students League Mission; Britannica).

In 1892, the League moved to its purpose-built home at 215 West 57th Street, where it remains a hub for artistic exploration and public engagement. The League’s flexible approach—no set curriculum, grades, or degrees—continues to attract a diverse student body and foster innovation.

In 2025, the League’s 150th anniversary brings major restoration projects, expanded exhibitions, and celebrations of its enduring influence (Art Students League 150th Anniversary; NYC.gov; The Art Newspaper).

Contact Information

Address: 215 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-247-4510, ext. 6
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.artstudentsleague.org

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Art Students League of New York stands as a beacon of artistic freedom, innovation, and inclusivity. With free admission to its historic galleries, dynamic exhibitions, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in art or New York City’s cultural history.

Before your visit, check the official website for exhibit schedules and special events. For a richer experience, download the Audiala app for personalized guides and event notifications. Follow the League on social media for behind-the-scenes stories and updates. Step into a space where “No Day Without a Line” is more than a motto—it’s a living tradition.

Summary

The Art Students League of New York boasts over 150 years of continuous influence on American art. Its unique teaching philosophy, open-door policy, and artist-run governance have nurtured renowned artists and fostered a vibrant community. Visitors enjoy free gallery access, engaging exhibitions, and opportunities to participate in classes and events. With its central Midtown location and accessible facilities, the League is a cultural landmark not to be missed.