The New York Studio School, founded in 1964 by artists for artists, emphasizes perception and drawing, providing its students with the means to develop a language for expression of a personal artistic vision. Students are encouraged to think independently and work with dedication. From its National Historic Landmark home on West 8th Street in New York City, the original home of the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Studio School offers a range of courses and educational programs including a three-year Certificate program, two-year Master of Fine Arts, its signature one- and two-week immersive Marathon workshops, and Evening & Weekend courses. A twice-weekly Lecture Series and a Gallery for short-term exhibitions, both open to the public free of charge, bring together prominent figures of the art world to share perspectives about contemporary art.

In March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Studio School swiftly brought its programs online and achieved success with its pilot virtual programming. Since the 2020 Summer Session, the School has steadily expanded its virtual offerings, including launching a new Virtual Certificate Program, allowing aspiring artists across the globe to experience its unique pedagogical approach. A safe and healthy work environment is the School’s utmost priority, and NYSS is proud to have kept all staff on payroll throughout the pandemic.