The American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters is located at 633 West 155th Street in a grand old building across from the bucolic Trinity Cemetery. It is one of the premiere institutions in America that honors writers, musicians, architects and artists who have distinguished themselves in their fields of endeavor.Years ago I was first introduced to this stately place when I attended an awards ceremony in honor of the Dean of American Composers Aaron Copland, and a subsequent visit brought me back to see awards presented to writer and composer friends.

I hate to let the secret out, but the annual exhibit at the Academy of Arts & Letters is one of the best art galleries in the city, featuring some of the nations best artists, musicians, writers, comic artists and a full replica of composer Charles Ives studio. And there are NO CROWDS. Seriously, the staff outnumber the viewers, it was like being in our own gallery. The exhibit runs through 6/14, check it out if you can!

The stained glass windows are incredible as are The letters of Ralph Ellison and others. The art show in the Spring is wonderful!

2018 CEREMONIAL EXHIBITION: WORK BY NEW MEMBERS AND RECIPIENTS OF AWARDS