Founded in 1871, the Salmagundi Club in New York originally served as a meeting place for writers and journalists. Over time, it evolved into a well-known art club supporting artists through exhibitions, workshops, and community programs. However, it’s difficult to call it competitive in the city’s dense museum landscape.
It may be especially interesting to visit if you — or a friend or relative — are members of the Salmagundi Club. Otherwise, you might want to consider other museums on the list.
History
The Salmagundi Club emerged in 1871 as a small gathering of young New York artists and illustrators. Their goal was simple: to discuss art, exchange ideas, and work in an atmosphere of creativity and mutual support.
The club’s name comes from the popular 18th–19th-century dish salmagundi — a mix of various ingredients. It symbolized the diversity of opinions, styles, and talents brought together under one roof. Among its celebrated members were:
- William Merritt Chase;
- Howard Chandler Christy;
- Louis Comfort Tiffany;
- Norman Rockwell.
The Salmagundi Club soon became a key center of American art, a place where important discussions took place and where exhibitions and artist meetings shaped the direction of the nation’s artistic tradition.
Building
The club’s home is located in the heart of Greenwich Village — an elegant 19th-century townhouse built in the 1850s. It originally belonged to the family of prominent industrialist Cortlandt Parker. The club purchased the building in 1917, and it has remained its permanent residence ever since.
The townhouse makes an impression both outside and inside: a red-brick façade, large windows, stained-glass details, an old wooden staircase, and a cozy library. The building is officially recognized as a New York City landmark.
Collection
The Salmagundi Club’s collection includes several hundred works created both by its members and invited artists. It features portraits of notable 19th–20th-century figures, historical canvases depicting the development of New York, city and maritime landscapes, early 20th-century magazine illustrations, as well as decorative sculpture.
Exhibitions
Each year, the Salmagundi Club hosts dozens of exhibitions, many of which become significant events in New York’s art scene. The most important among them is the Annual Members Exhibition, featuring works by all active club artists.
Also popular are the open exhibitions, which accept submissions from artists across the country.
The club regularly organizes themed exhibitions focused on nature, urban landscapes, portraiture, illustration, and maritime art.
A large portion of the exhibitions is also available online.
Events
In addition to its exhibition program, the club hosts lectures and artist talks, creative evenings, book presentations, and a wide range of courses and workshops in painting, drawing, watercolor, oil, and composition.
One of its signature traditions is Sketch Nights — live drawing sessions with models, held continuously since the late 19th century.
The club’s atmosphere is complemented by musical events, including chamber music concerts, ensemble performances, and social evenings.
Visitor Information
Website: www.salmagundi.org
Address: 47 5th Ave, New York, NY 10003
Admission: free
