Bard Graduate Center is devoted to the study of decorative arts, design history, and material culture through research, advanced degrees, exhibitions, publications, and events.

Bard Graduate Center advances the study of decorative arts, design history, and material culture through its object-centered approach to teaching, research, exhibitions, publications, and events.

At BGC, we study the human past and present through their material expressions. We focus on objects and other material forms—from those valued for their aesthetic elements to the ordinary things used in everyday life.

Our accomplished interdisciplinary faculty inspires and prepares students in our MA and PhD programs for successful careers in academia, museums, and the private sector. We bring equal intellectual rigor to our acclaimed exhibitions, award-winning catalogues and scholarly publications, and innovative public programs, and we view all of these integrated elements as vital to our curriculum.

BGC’s campus comprises a state-of-the-art academic programs building at 38 West 86th Street, a gallery at 18 West 86th Street, and a residence hall at 410 West 58th Street. A new collection study center will open at 8 West 86th Street in 2026.

Founded by Dr. Susan Weber in 1993, Bard Graduate Center has become the preeminent institute for academic research and exhibition of decorative arts, design history, and material culture. BGC is an accredited unit of Bard College and a member of the Association of Research Institutes in Art History (ARIAH).

Photo by Brayden Heath.

In March, Bard Graduate Center welcomed its new chief advancement officer, Lindsay Smilow. She arrived at BGC with an extensive background in both fundraising and the arts. Most recently, she served as director of development at the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA), where she secured a groundbreaking multi-year support opportunity, the largest in NYFA’s history.

Prior to her tenure at NYFA, Smilow was the executive director of the Brooklyn chapter of the American Institute of Architects. She has extensive experience working in both development and external affairs at diverse institutions, ranging from small nonprofits to large organizations. Early in her career, Smilow worked in arts education at the Guggenheim and the Queens Museum. She holds a bachelor’s degree in art history and sculpture from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree in art history from Brooklyn College.

Smilow said, “Bard Graduate Center is a thrilling crucible where scholars, students, and exhibition makers forge new paths in the decorative arts, design history, and material culture. I feel fortunate to work alongside its passionate stewards and supporters and contribute to its ongoing growth.”

Susan Weber, founder and director of Bard Graduate Center, said, “Lindsay is an excellent addition to our team. She brings a fresh approach and a collaborative spirit, and I know she will do great things here.”