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Here you can carry out art historical and design research; apply the theories and practice of information science; design and curate digital libraries, archives, and exhibitions; and communicate arts content and design effectively across diverse cultures and societies.
Pratt students at the Morgan Library Reading Room (courtesy Polly Cancro, History of Art and Design / Library and Information Science '18)

Pratt students at the Morgan Library Reading Room (courtesy Polly Cancro, History of Art and Design / Library and Information Science '18)

Type
Graduate, MAL
Start Term
Fall Only
Credits
60
Duration
3 years (typically)
Courses
Plan of Study
Student reading in the book stacks of the history Pratt Library on the Brooklyn campus.

History of Art and Design / Library and Information Science at Pratt

The MSLIS/MA History of Art and Design dual-degree program prepares you for careers in art and design, museum, and academic libraries. In this program, you will become an expert on the intersection of art and design and information, going deep into art, design, and historical archives, art and design collections, and more. With fellowship opportunities at NYC’s leading museums, libraries, and archives, such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Frick Art Reference Library, and MoMA, the dual-degree program offers unique experiential learning opportunities.

Student Work

You may also browse completed M.A. History of Art & Design Theses at the Pratt Institute Libraries.

The Experience

professor speaking with class, reviewing artwork onsite

Students in the dual-degree MSLIS/MA History of Art and Design program get to experience all Pratt has to offer by taking half of their program (30 credits) at the School of Information based in Manhattan, and the other half in the Department of History of Art and Design on the Brooklyn campus (30 credits). The first two years students take courses in both departments, with much of the thesis work taking place in the third year. With class sizes of just 8-12, you’ll collaborate closely with your cohort and faculty and be learning at the nexus of NYC arts and culture communities.

Internships

Internships at museums, libraries, nonprofit art organizations, and galleries provide professional opportunities in your area of interest and prepare you for future careers. Recent students have interned at prestigious institutions such as the New York Public Library, Franklin Furnace, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

Study Abroad

Bernini's fountain in the Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy.

We are pleased to offer study abroad options for dual-degree students, including a new course offered for the first time during spring break 2024: “Artist Archives: Rome/New York”. We also recently celebrated the 35th anniversary of Pratt in Venice, which is a 6-week program that occurs each June and July. For more information on Study Abroad, see where you can go.

Learning Resources

We develop disciplinary fluency in our program of study and we celebrate the interdisciplinary nature of design critical to address the plurality and complexity of the environments in which we operate. Learning resources.

Our Faculty

Pratt’s distinguished faculty of outstanding creative professionals and scholars share a common desire to develop each student’s potential and creativity to the fullest. Bringing different views, methods, and perspectives, they provide a rigorous educational model in which students make and learn. See all History of Art and Design faculty and administrators and School of Information faculty and administrators.

Our Alumni

Pratt’s distinguished alumni are leading diverse and thriving careers, addressing critical challenges and creating innovative work that reimagines our world.

Where They Work

  • Librarian, Photographs and Prints Division, New York Public Library
  • Archivist, Center for Brooklyn History at Brooklyn Public Library
  • IT Project Manager, J. Paul Getty Trust
  • Head, Reference & Reader Services, Teachers College, Columbia University
  • Web Collection Librarian, Columbia University Libraries
  • Dean and Director of Libraries, Bard College

Success Stories

Ready for More?

HERE’S HOW TO APPLYOUR CAMPUS & BEYOND
Join us at Pratt. Learn more about admissions requirements, plan your visit, talk to a counselor, and start your application. Take the next step.You’ll find yourself at home at Pratt. Learn more about our residence halls, student organizations, athletics, gallery exhibitions, events, the amazing City of New York and our Brooklyn neighborhood communities. Check us out.

Social media

@hadpratt
History of Art and Design Dep.

@hadpratt

  • Weekly Art Inspiration: Zhang Daqian's "Panorama of Mount Lu" (1981–83)

Zhang Daqian’s "Panorama of Mount Lu" blends traditional Chinese ink painting with modern techniques. His splashed-ink method and vibrant colors bring the grandeur of Mount Lu to life, showcasing nature's beauty through innovation. Let this masterpiece inspire you to merge tradition with modern creativity! 🌄🎨 

#ArtInspiration #ZhangDaqian #ChineseArt #NatureArt #CreativeFusion
  • You are warmly invited to the HAD Student Symposium, featuring presentations by students from the Senior Seminar and HAD Graduate Thesis programs.

*This event is open for public.

Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Alumni Reading Room

Please RSVP and save the date! The morning session (10:00–11:45am) will showcase research presentations by Senior Seminar students, followed by graduate thesis presentations from 1:00–3:00pm. Lunch will be served during the break. Family and friends are welcome!
  • Professor Eana Kim and her HAD 112 Themes in Art and Culture classes went to Guggenheim to see the recently opened Rashid Johnson show.
  • Design Movement Spotlight: Art Deco
Era: 1920s - 1940s

Key Characteristics:
Geometry & Symmetry: Bold geometric shapes, zigzags, and sweeping curves.
Luxurious Materials: Use of lavish materials like marble, gold, and glass.
Technological Influence: A fascination with modern machinery and industrial progress.
Global Influence: Incorporates elements from ancient Egypt, Africa, and East Asia.

Historical Context:
Art Deco emerged post-World War I, reflecting a desire for luxury, glamour, and modernity. It was influenced by the technological advancements and the cultural shifts of the Roaring Twenties. The movement spanned various domains, from architecture and fashion to interior design and graphic arts.

Legacy:
Art Deco remains a significant influence in contemporary design, often seen in modern fashion, interior decor, and even digital design, continuing its legacy of combining functionality with elegance.
  • Fresco is a technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to bond as the plaster dries. The word "fresco" comes from the Italian "fresh," referring to the wet surface.

Used since ancient times, frescoes are iconic in churches and palaces, with Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel" being a prime example.

Frescoes are durable and become part of the architecture, blending art with the building itself.
#Fresco #ArtTechnique #SistineChapel #Michelangelo #MuralArt #HistoricalArt #RenaissanceArt #ArtHistory #ArchitecturalArt #Painting #ArtLovers
  • Artist of the Day: Max Kahn (1902 – 2005)

Today, we're honoring the life and work of Max Kahn, a trailblazing American printmaker, painter, and lithographer born on 1902. Known for his masterful use of color and texture, Kahn's contributions to the art world spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on printmaking and lithography.

Early Life & Education: Max Kahn was born in Podolia, now part of Ukraine, and emigrated to the United States at a young age. He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he later became a revered teacher.

Artistic Style & Legacy: Kahn's works are characterized by their bold use of color and abstract forms. He was particularly known for his innovative approaches to lithography, often blending traditional techniques with experimental methods. His dedication to the craft helped elevate printmaking as a respected art form.

Teaching & Influence: Kahn's impact extended beyond his artwork. He was a beloved instructor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he inspired generations of artists. His teaching emphasized the importance of technical skill, creativity, and artistic integrity.

Notable Achievements:
Kahn was a key figure in the Chicago art scene, contributing significantly to its development.
His works have been exhibited in major museums and galleries, reflecting his stature in the art community.
Kahn was a recipient of several prestigious awards, recognizing his contributions to the field of printmaking.

#MaxKahn #ArtistOfTheDay #Printmaking #ArtHistory #DesignInspiration #Lithography #ArtInstituteOfChicago #ChicagoArtScene #AbstractArt
Weekly Art Inspiration: Zhang Daqian's "Panorama of Mount Lu" (1981–83) Zhang Daqian’s "Panorama of Mount Lu" blends traditional Chinese ink painting with modern techniques. His splashed-ink method and vibrant colors bring the grandeur of Mount Lu to life, showcasing nature's beauty through innovation. Let this masterpiece inspire you to merge tradition with modern creativity! 🌄🎨 #ArtInspiration #ZhangDaqian #ChineseArt #NatureArt #CreativeFusion
10 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/6
You are warmly invited to the HAD Student Symposium, featuring presentations by students from the Senior Seminar and HAD Graduate Thesis programs. *This event is open for public. Date: Friday, May 9, 2025 Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Location: Alumni Reading Room Please RSVP and save the date! The morning session (10:00–11:45am) will showcase research presentations by Senior Seminar students, followed by graduate thesis presentations from 1:00–3:00pm. Lunch will be served during the break. Family and friends are welcome!
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/6
Professor Eana Kim and her HAD 112 Themes in Art and Culture classes went to Guggenheim to see the recently opened Rashid Johnson show.
Professor Eana Kim and her HAD 112 Themes in Art and Culture classes went to Guggenheim to see the recently opened Rashid Johnson show.
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/6
Design Movement Spotlight: Art Deco Era: 1920s - 1940s Key Characteristics: Geometry & Symmetry: Bold geometric shapes, zigzags, and sweeping curves. Luxurious Materials: Use of lavish materials like marble, gold, and glass. Technological Influence: A fascination with modern machinery and industrial progress. Global Influence: Incorporates elements from ancient Egypt, Africa, and East Asia. Historical Context: Art Deco emerged post-World War I, reflecting a desire for luxury, glamour, and modernity. It was influenced by the technological advancements and the cultural shifts of the Roaring Twenties. The movement spanned various domains, from architecture and fashion to interior design and graphic arts. Legacy: Art Deco remains a significant influence in contemporary design, often seen in modern fashion, interior decor, and even digital design, continuing its legacy of combining functionality with elegance.
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/6
Fresco is a technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to bond as the plaster dries. The word "fresco" comes from the Italian "fresh," referring to the wet surface.

Used since ancient times, frescoes are iconic in churches and palaces, with Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel" being a prime example.

Frescoes are durable and become part of the architecture, blending art with the building itself.
#Fresco #ArtTechnique #SistineChapel #Michelangelo #MuralArt #HistoricalArt #RenaissanceArt #ArtHistory #ArchitecturalArt #Painting #ArtLovers
Fresco is a technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to bond as the plaster dries. The word "fresco" comes from the Italian "fresh," referring to the wet surface.

Used since ancient times, frescoes are iconic in churches and palaces, with Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel" being a prime example.

Frescoes are durable and become part of the architecture, blending art with the building itself.
#Fresco #ArtTechnique #SistineChapel #Michelangelo #MuralArt #HistoricalArt #RenaissanceArt #ArtHistory #ArchitecturalArt #Painting #ArtLovers
Fresco is a technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to bond as the plaster dries. The word "fresco" comes from the Italian "fresh," referring to the wet surface.

Used since ancient times, frescoes are iconic in churches and palaces, with Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel" being a prime example.

Frescoes are durable and become part of the architecture, blending art with the building itself.
#Fresco #ArtTechnique #SistineChapel #Michelangelo #MuralArt #HistoricalArt #RenaissanceArt #ArtHistory #ArchitecturalArt #Painting #ArtLovers
Fresco is a technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to bond as the plaster dries. The word "fresco" comes from the Italian "fresh," referring to the wet surface. Used since ancient times, frescoes are iconic in churches and palaces, with Michelangelo's "Sistine Chapel" being a prime example. Frescoes are durable and become part of the architecture, blending art with the building itself. #Fresco #ArtTechnique #SistineChapel #Michelangelo #MuralArt #HistoricalArt #RenaissanceArt #ArtHistory #ArchitecturalArt #Painting #ArtLovers
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
5/6
Artist of the Day: Max Kahn (1902 – 2005) Today, we're honoring the life and work of Max Kahn, a trailblazing American printmaker, painter, and lithographer born on 1902. Known for his masterful use of color and texture, Kahn's contributions to the art world spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on printmaking and lithography. Early Life & Education: Max Kahn was born in Podolia, now part of Ukraine, and emigrated to the United States at a young age. He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago, where he later became a revered teacher. Artistic Style & Legacy: Kahn's works are characterized by their bold use of color and abstract forms. He was particularly known for his innovative approaches to lithography, often blending traditional techniques with experimental methods. His dedication to the craft helped elevate printmaking as a respected art form. Teaching & Influence: Kahn's impact extended beyond his artwork. He was a beloved instructor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he inspired generations of artists. His teaching emphasized the importance of technical skill, creativity, and artistic integrity. Notable Achievements: Kahn was a key figure in the Chicago art scene, contributing significantly to its development. His works have been exhibited in major museums and galleries, reflecting his stature in the art community. Kahn was a recipient of several prestigious awards, recognizing his contributions to the field of printmaking. #MaxKahn #ArtistOfTheDay #Printmaking #ArtHistory #DesignInspiration #Lithography #ArtInstituteOfChicago #ChicagoArtScene #AbstractArt
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/6
@prattischool
Pratt iSchool

@prattischool

  • School of Information students make field trips this spring semester around NYC, including the NY Auto Show, Center for Book Arts, and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Read all about it in this new Pratt.edu news article; link available in our bio.
  • Profs. Craig MacDonald and Shruthi Chivukula unwind from their organizing and judging duties at the @amazonmusic Product Design Challenge. Read all about the challenge and the winning projects via the link available in our bio.
  • In the 100 years since @newyorkermag began publication, four School of Information alums have been featured in the New Yorker. Can you guess who they are? Answer in this Pratt news article; link available in our bio.
  • It's the School of Information April '25 newsletter with the winners of the annual Amazon Music Product Design Challenge, outcomes of the full-time faculty searches, and much more news; link available in our bio.
  • We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
  • More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
School of Information students make field trips this spring semester around NYC, including the NY Auto Show, Center for Book Arts, and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Read all about it in this new Pratt.edu news article; link available in our bio.
School of Information students make field trips this spring semester around NYC, including the NY Auto Show, Center for Book Arts, and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Read all about it in this new Pratt.edu news article; link available in our bio.
School of Information students make field trips this spring semester around NYC, including the NY Auto Show, Center for Book Arts, and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Read all about it in this new Pratt.edu news article; link available in our bio.
School of Information students make field trips this spring semester around NYC, including the NY Auto Show, Center for Book Arts, and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Read all about it in this new Pratt.edu news article; link available in our bio.
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
1/6
Profs. Craig MacDonald and Shruthi Chivukula unwind from their organizing and judging duties at the @amazonmusic Product Design Challenge. Read all about the challenge and the winning projects via the link available in our bio.
Profs. Craig MacDonald and Shruthi Chivukula unwind from their organizing and judging duties at the @amazonmusic Product Design Challenge. Read all about the challenge and the winning projects via the link available in our bio.
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
2/6
In the 100 years since @newyorkermag began publication, four School of Information alums have been featured in the New Yorker. Can you guess who they are? Answer in this Pratt news article; link available in our bio.
In the 100 years since @newyorkermag began publication, four School of Information alums have been featured in the New Yorker. Can you guess who they are? Answer in this Pratt news article; link available in our bio.
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/6
It's the School of Information April '25 newsletter with the winners of the annual Amazon Music Product Design Challenge, outcomes of the full-time faculty searches, and much more news; link available in our bio.
It's the School of Information April '25 newsletter with the winners of the annual Amazon Music Product Design Challenge, outcomes of the full-time faculty searches, and much more news; link available in our bio.
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/6
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
We are pleased to be offering a number of new special topics courses this summer and fall '25 semesters - checkout the flyers here! Graduate registrations begins April 7th! Link in our bio for full-size versions.
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/6
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
More snapshots from @prattischool’s Artists’ Archives: Rome/New York course! #ArtistsArchives #RomeNewYork #ArtPreservation #PrattiSchoolinRome #PrattInstitute
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
6/6

From the Catalog