10 Art Shows to See in the Hudson Valley in April
"On the Road to Cragsmoor with Charles Courtney Curran at the Albany Institute of History & Art charts the sun-dappled journey of one of American Impressionism’s gentler giants. From the salons of Paris to the Shawangunk peaks, Curran painted women in white linen and children at play with an eye for light, leisure, and lyrical calm. This retrospective showcases everything from his Symbolist experiments to his breezy Cragsmoor idylls—plus a side of period fashion for good measure. Art meets history in the Hudson Valley, and the road to Cragsmoor never looked lovelier." – Brian K. Mahoney, Chronogram
Albany Institute Selected in 2025 Bestie Awards by Capital Region Living
"Thousands of Capital Regionites cast their votes in more than 200 categories... to all of you who cast your votes to highlight everything that makes the Capital Region great: Thanks for being our Bestie." – Natalie Moore, Capital Region Living
Black Dimensions in Art marks 50 years of 'opportunity, exposure and celebration'
"Since its founding, Black Dimensions in Art has championed Black artists locally and nationally. It has curated shows in major galleries and small church halls. It has taught kids how to imagine, whether they're behind the lens of a camera or clutching a paintbrush dampened by the spray of a waterfall. And it has opened the eyes of local gallery owners and audiences to artists long overshadowed by their white peers... Black Dimensions curated its first major exhibit, “Black Artists in Historical Perspective I,” as part of the nation’s bicentennial in 1976 at the Albany Institute of History & Art. Black Dimensions will return to the institute for a 50th anniversary show at the end of August." – Katherine Kiessling, Times Union
The Coxsackie Declaration: Showing Support for the American Revolution
"I recently visited the Albany Institute of History & Art to view the original copy of the Coxsackie Declaration. Though faded and hard to read, it was moving to look at the names of men who knowingly put their lives and liberties at risk by signing, apparently believing both would be worth little if they didn’t." – Richard Kreitner, Hudson Valley Magazine
Activists, history makers in spotlight at Albany Institute of History & Art
"'Americans Who Tell the Truth,' is a necessary and inspiring exhibit that seems both timely and timeless." – Indiana Nash, The Daily Gazette
Illustrating truth in a post-truth world
"If you are hungry for a healthy dose of veracity and want to surround yourself with a lineup of champion truth-tellers, get to the Albany Institute of History & Art and spend some time with a new exhibit, 'Americans Who Tell the Truth.'" – Paul Grondahl, Times Union
The Albany Institute presents new exhibition of over 40 portraits by Robert Shetterly
"'By bringing Robert Shetterly’s portraits to Albany, we aim to spark important conversations about courage, integrity, and the power of individuals to shape history and the present,' said Executive Director Kayla Carlsen." – Amaris Ford, Spotlight News
Changing of the arts: New wave of arts leaders hits region
"Across the region, 16 organizations announced major leadership changes... At most of these institutions, new leaders—many women, several replacing founding or longtime executive directors—have begun defining this emerging generation of arts leadership." – Katherine Kiessling, Times Union
Albany Institute of History & Art Awarded Major Funding by County Executive McCoy, County Legislature, and the Advance Albany County Alliance
“Arts and culture are not a luxury; rather, they are fundamental to our collective identity. By investing in these organizations, we are not only supporting the talented artists and cultural organizations in our community, but also driving economic growth, tourism, and educational opportunities for our residents. Together, we are building an environment where everyone has the opportunity to engage in the arts,” said Albany County Executive McCoy.
Albany Institute of History & Art was awarded $150,000 toward the Bridge to the Future Project, which aims to revitalize the museum post-pandemic by enhancing its communications, expanding community engagement, and strengthening its curatorial and educational programming with key new staff and resources to attract diverse audiences and support long-term growth.
The Albany Institute of History & Art honors the past while looking ahead to the future
"The past and the present meet at the Albany Institute of History & Art with its fall and winter exhibitions that capture the wonder of imagination, an integral and beloved fine art movement, and a journey through history to the modern day created by a thriving community of artisans." – Amaris Ford, Spotlight News
Times Union names winners of The Big $100,000 Giveaway
"[Capital Region Gives] highlights philanthropy in our region and showcases the way nonprofits and businesses collaborate for the greater benefit of the community... All granted space, totaling $120,000, will be used by these nonprofits in the coming year to market their needs, events, programs and services." – Jim Franco, Times Union
Albany Institute of History & Art awarded $40,000 by the New York State Council on the Arts
Through New York State’s continued investment in arts and culture, NYSCA has awarded $82 million this year to 509 artists and 1,497 organizations across the state. Albany Institute relies on grants, donations, and memberships to continue to thrive and meet the needs of the future in meaningful ways.
Delights of the Senses in Albany
"Delights of the Senses in Albany" walk-through of the exhibition led by Chief Curator W. Douglas McCombs with WMHT host Charlotte Wilson.
10 Art Shows to See in Upstate New York This November
"The Hudson Valley is rich with Indigenous history, and People of the Waters that Are Never Still: A Celebration of Mohican Art and Culture, curated by Tamara Aupaumut at the Albany Institute of History & Art in Albany, showcases that abundance. Exploring historical and contemporary Mohican art and culture through a selection of 40 objects by 10 artists — including paintings, sculpture, photography, a visual poem, and a community beadwork project with musical accompaniment created by members of the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican community — these works consider the Earth, animals, ancestors, traditions, and identity as central themes." – Taliesin Thomas, Hyperallergic
5 Hidden Gem Attractions in Albany: Discover Unexpected Delights
"The Albany Institute of History & Art is a hidden gem that encapsulates the rich history and artistic heritage of the Capital Region... Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, the Albany Institute offers a captivating experience. It is a true hidden gem, illuminating Albany’s rich tapestry for those willing to delve deeper." – Medium
Concert review: Duo's recital at Art Institute an intimate sharing with audience
"Tenderness and integrity characterized the entire one-hour program, a thoughtful mix of Baroque and contemporary compositions and arrangements of traditional Middle Eastern music. The intimacy of the performance was enhanced by the beautiful setting, the gallery of Hudson River School paintings." – Joseph Dalton, Times Union
Albany Institute's new leader wants to go big and grow home
“I want it to feel like (Albany Institute) is part of the everyday experience,” – Kayla Carlsen in Times Union
People & Places You Should Know: Kayla Carlsen
"Her vision is for the Institute to be a regular—and accessible—destination for a larger slice of the community." – The 518
Experience Art & Culture in Capital-Saratoga
"Founded in 1791, the Albany Institute of History & Art allows visitors a glimpse into the past and an appreciation of art all at once." – Michele DeBella, I ♥️ NY
The Albany Institute welcomes new executive director
"Since taking on the role, she has already begun delving even deeper into local history and how it connects to the Institute’s story." – Spotlight News
Q&A: Kayla Carlsen
"Recently, the Albany Institute of History & Art (AIHA) selected Carlsen to be its next executive director following a national search that attracted more than 70 candidates." – Antiques and The Arts Weekly
Capital Region native to lead Albany Institute of History & Art
"'I think the museum itself, being one of the oldest in the country, is already very well positioned as a beacon and an inspiration center within the Capital Region.'" – Kalya Carlsen with WAMC Northeast Public Radio
Albany Institute announces Greenville native as next leader
“'I grew up going to the museum and have always held it near and dear to my heart,' Carlsen said. 'When this opportunity came up, it was one I couldn’t refuse.'" – Kayla Carlsen in Times Union
Albany's unsung hero: New project illuminates the rich legacy of local Black history
"In the heart of Albany, a groundbreaking initiative is shedding light on the often-overlooked narratives of Black history." – WRGB CBS 6