The Art Collection

Welcome to the online catalogue of Brooklyn College Library’s art collection, which includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, and prints.

Diverse in character and international in scope, the collection features art by Elizabeth Murray, William Kentridge, Chakaia Booker, Shahzia Sikander, Sarah Sze, John Walker, Edward Ruscha, and Xu Bing. Several of these artists live and work in Brooklyn’s dynamic art community, and they are all internationally recognized, with works in major museums around the world.

The collection also contains drawings and prints from prominent modern artists, including Alberto Giacometti, Käthe Kollwitz, Alexander Calder, Georges Braque, Robert Motherwell, and Chaim Gross.

Most of the art collection was acquired just before the 2002 opening of the newly renovated and expanded Library. Many of the purchases were funded by New York City’s “Percent for Art” law, which ensures that public spaces are graced with art. Numerous other works were acquired through gifts, and some works are on loan. One very special work, Olindo Mario Ricci’s Famous Libraries of the World mural, was funded in 1936 by the Federal Arts Project.

This catalogue includes digital reproductions of the art, brief descriptions that offer insights into the works and artists, suggested readings, and links to museum and gallery exhibitions. It will be updated frequently with links to relevant publications and exhibitions, so please come back regularly!

Click here to begin the self guided tour of the highlights of the Brooklyn College Library art collection, with a map of their location in the library, description, information and audio guide.

Art Award Winners for 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014.

For further information about the Library’s art collection, please contact Professor Miriam Deutch at miriamd@brooklyn.cuny.edu.