NYC Arts: The Complete Guide to Art and Culture

When American philosopher John Dewey lectured at Peking University in 1919 he was impressed by both the size of his audience and its understanding of the West. He wondered if a lecture in Chinese at Columbia University, where he taught, would be understood by more than a handful of experts.

To begin rectifying this imbalance in cross-cultural understanding, Dewey and colleagues founded the China Institute in 1926. Today it remains the only institution in New York to focus solely on Chinese art, civilization and culture. It presents shows of Chinese painting, calligraphy, architecture, decorative art, folk art, photography and textile work from all periods, curated by internationally known scholars. The institute's close relationship with Chinese museums has meant that it's been able to borrow outstanding works never before seen in the West.

Also offered are guided tours to other museums and private collections containing important holdings; Chinese-language classes; studio courses; concerts; and children's workshops. 

Foreign-language Programs
Mandarin Chinese classes are taught through an entertaining combination of games, songs, hands-on activities and a "whole language" approach, which enables children to learn the language as they gain familiarity with the culture. During classes, Chinese artists expose children to opera, paper folding, calligraphy and folk music.

The institute offers language classes for PreK to elementary students, teens and adults. Private tutoring is also available.

• Directions: Subway: 6 to 68th Street - Hunter College

• Coat Check
• Disability Access: Wheelchair accessible, but a ramp must be put in place at the front entrance. Call (212) 744-8181, x136, or e-mail questions to access@chinainstitute.org.
• Disability Assistance:

  Hearing: American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters available to accompany scheduled group tours of gallery.
  Vision: Verbal description tours available to groups. Tours must be booked in advance.
  To schedule services please call (212) 744-8181, x147 or e-mail yma@chinainstitute.org.

• On-Site Food: None, but groups may bring bag lunches.

Get involved with China Institute

• Memberships