The Society’s Labor, Literature and Landmarks Series continues a tradition of public lectures that started at the Society in 1837.  Since then, it has been an important source of education and cultural enlightenment for all New Yorkers. The Series brings people of diverse interests from the entire New York area into our Library space. Now in its 14th season, the Artisan Lecture Series pays tribute to the art of craftsmanship by featuring master artisans who lecture about the intricacies of their specialized crafts. The Artisan Lecture Series promotes the work and art of skilled craftsmen to assist in ensuring their unique knowledge is understood and carried forth for future generations.

If you would like to be on our mailing list for future lectures, please write to [email protected].

Spring 2025 Lectures

Tuesday April 8 at 6pm– Charles Rennie Mackintosh Illuminated with Philip Long OBE FRSE

Charles Rennie Mackintosh is one of Scotland’s greatest cultural figures, a famed artist, architect, and designer. Mr. Long will share the National Trust of Scotland’s plans to bring Mackintosh (and his wife Margaret MacDonald) to life for new generations. Presented as part of New York Tartan Week and in partnership with the American Scottish Foundation and the National Trust of Scotland.

 

 
Tuesday, April 29th at 6pm – Pigeons: Love Them, or Love Them with photographer Andrew Garn, with a talk based on his book, The New York Pigeon: Behind the Feathers. He will provide an overview of the science and history of the pigeon’s relationship with humans.

Tuesday May 6th at 6pm  –  Rambusch Decorative Arts: The Past, Present and Future of An Extraordinary Company.  This talk, based on the recently published history of the family company, Rambusch: The First 100 years, 1898–1998.  Viggo Rambusch will explore the fascinating history of this firm, accompanied by his son Edwin Rambusch.  Starting with decorative painting and murals, the company expanded into lighting design and many other fields. Few American firms have flourished as this company has in the United States. Now in the twenty-first century, the firm inspires similar collaborative efforts between architects, designers, artisans and craft studios to work together for the decorative arts to regain their place in the finishing of our nation’s buildings.

Tuesday, May 13th at 6pm – Golden Glass: Verre Églomisé with Miriam Ellner,  Verre Eglomisé Designer.  Ms.  Ellner is a master in the technique of verre églomisé, creating original & custom glass artworks. In a talk inspired by her book, Golden Glass, she will discuss the process of creating her stunning work.

Tuesday June 10th at 6pm – Summer in the City: The Jazz Age’s Lasting Legacy: Public Places and Spaces in the Modern Metropolis with architectural historian, Matt Postal.

From Rockefeller Center to the Astoria Pool and Parkchester, Mr. Postal will examine some of our grandest Art Deco public spaces. Parks, pools, promenades and plazas will be highlighted. This program is co-sponsored by the Art Deco Society of New York

For more information on our lectures, please contact [email protected].