National Academy of Design

Founded in 1825, the National Academy of Design promotes art and architecture in America through exhibition and instruction. As the leading honorary society for visual artists and architects in the United States, we advocate for the arts as a tool for education, celebrate the role of artists and architects in public life, and serve as a catalyst for cultural conversations that propel society forward. Our National Academician membership is a vibrant, intergenerational community of artists and architects from many backgrounds that honors the full diversity of practitioners in the United States. Across our varied creative practices, we are unified in our shared belief in the power of art and architecture. Through our individual work and collective initiatives, we support our communities, peers, and the next generation of creative thinkers. Each year, new National Academicians are inducted into our membership by current members. This honor cannot be applied for or solicited.