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Contemporary artists grapple with many of the same complex issues that our modern communities do—from race and gender to war, aging, and identity. Through detailed observation, innovative processes, and creativity, artists provide us with new ways of understanding and looking at the world around us. The Whitney’s pre-eminent collection and exhibitions of American art can serve as a focal point for exploration, dialogue, and self-expression for our diverse communities. 

A young architect shared her model for a museum of the future at Harvest Fest, Gansevoort Plaza, Meatpacking District, 2012. Photograph by Liza Zapol

Children from the Regent Family Residence participated in a hands-on activity creating installations using colorful masking tape at the Museum, 2012. Photograph by Lisa Libicki

Youth from FIERCE in artist Wu Tsang’s installation for the 2012 Whitney Biennial, 2012. Photograph by Danielle Linzer

A senior from Greenwich House showcases her painting in a community exhibition at the Museum, 2012. Photograph by Emily Arensman

After-school students at the Hudson Guild in Chelsea worked with Whitney ISP artist Xaviera Simmons on projects in a variety of media, 2012. Photograph by Mark Epstein

Community Programs

The Whitney’s Community Programs build sustained connections that go beyond the isolated museum visit, bringing art, ideas, and dialogue to classrooms, senior centers, and community-based organizations around the city. By meeting our new audiences where they are and building bridges between their experiences and the art and artists of the Whitney, we seek to foster lasting, meaningful relationships.

Who we work with:
A limited number of free programs are available for qualifying not-for-profit community-based groups and organizations. The Whitney seeks to promote local relationships that strengthen our immediate community by providing free or affordable programming to organizations with demonstrated need. We work with groups whose goals align with the mission and values of the Whitney Museum of Art, and who have the resources to support and benefit from collaboration.

New Neighborhood Initiatives

In preparation for our move downtown in 2015, the Whitney Education Department has been engaged in research, outreach, and an inclusive planning process as we get to know our new neighborhood.  We have been learning from our neighbors as they tell us about their stories, needs, and interests, and piloting programs with a wide range of schools and community-based organizations in the area.

Pilot Programs

The Whitney’s downtown pilot programs establish new relationships by collaborating with a broad range of community-based organizations. These specialized programs enable participants to forge meaningful connections with the art and artists of the Whitney. 

Senior Programs

We partner with community-based senior organizations to create customized programs that challenge seniors to actively engage with the Whitney’s collection and exhibitions, share ideas, and relate what they learn to their own lives and experiences.