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).

Perhaps unsurprisingly, this fall is a time of many changes. BGC is delighted to welcome some very talented new people to our team, and sadly, we are saying goodbye to some staff members who have made a substantial impact during their time here.

Welcome to Jen Ha, coordinator of research and academic events, who joined the Academic Administration department in August.

Welcome to our new managing editor, Kat Atkins, who joined the Publications department in August.

Welcome to Vic Panata, library fellow, who joined the Department of Research Collections in September.

Welcome to our visiting faculty and fellows: Henry Colburn, Ariel Fein, Dana Katz, Christian Larsen, Annissa Malvoisin, Charmaine A. Nelson, Isabel Oleas-Mogollón, Soon Kai Poh, Lisa Regazzoni, and Louise Wood Ruby.

Welcome to our new Visitor Services staff: Anthony Chassi, Ema Furusho, and Bree Klauser. If you visit BGC Gallery, you will greeted by a member of this team, and likely also one of the terrific students assisting them: Heath Ballowe, Emily Harvey, Bella Margi, and Jeremy Reeves.

We wish a fond farewell to Emily Reilly, director of public engagement; Hellyn Teng, website manager; and Madeline Warner, development associate.