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The National Arts Club

The National Arts Club in New York celebrates fine arts through exhibitions, concerts, and free public programs.

The National Arts Club, located in the historic Samuel Tilden Mansion on Gramercy Park South in New York, stands as a vital cultural institution dedicated to celebrating and advancing the fine arts. Founded in 1898 by Charles De Kay, the club has served as a dynamic gathering place for artists and patrons across all creative disciplines. Since its inception, the club has embraced inclusivity, offering full membership to women and welcoming artists of diverse backgrounds, a progressive ethos that continues to define its mission today. Each year, the club presents more than 150 free programs, including exhibitions, concerts, readings, lectures, and performances, attracting a broad and engaged public. This commitment to accessibility ensures that the arts remain an active and enriching presence in New York City's cultural life. The National Arts Club also fosters artistic dialogue on a global scale, forming partnerships with international institutions and inviting cross-cultural conversations that extend the reach of its programming beyond city limits. Its landmark home, the Tilden Mansion, is itself a work of art, designed by Calvert Vaux and adorned with stained glass by John LaFarge and Donald MacDonald. The ornate interiors have welcomed generations of creatives and have become a favored location for major film and television productions. Over the decades, the club's membership has included luminaries such as Frederic Remington, Cecilia Beaux, Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and Alfred Stieglitz. The Medal of Honor, awarded annually, recognizes figures of exceptional artistic achievement, from Toni Morrison and Roy Lichtenstein to Lin-Manuel Miranda and Ang Lee. The National Arts Club remains a cornerstone of New York's creative community, preserving its storied past while championing the evolving future of the arts.

Location & Schedule

Frequency
Each year

The community

Members
full membership
Level
All levels
Age range
All ages
Language
English

Joining

Participation fee
Free
Membership
Open to all
Founded
1898
History
Founded in 1898 by Charles De Kay, the club has served as a dynamic gathering place for artists and patrons, embracing inclusivity and progressive ethos.
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Changes (3)
2026-10-27
15:18 long_description The National Arts Club, located in the historic Samuel Tilden Mansion on...
15:18 short_description The National Arts Club in New York celebrates fine arts through exhibitions,...
2026-10-26
08:30 added added

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