Arts Initiative
Amplify the Power of the Arts for All Columbians
The Arts Initiative promotes and supports the vibrant arts landscape both on campus and around New York City. Through a range of programs that ensure affordable arts access, support student art making on campus, and foster collaboration with our local community, we are proud to cultivate meaningful arts experiences for all Columbians to enjoy. Your support makes this possible. As you consider the remarkable ways in which the arts have enriched your own life, we ask that you pay it forward. Make a gift today to connect every Columbian with the transformative power of the arts.
Your Gifts Impact Our Success
Ensuring Affordable Arts Access
The Arts Initiative understands the essential role arts and culture plays in embracing a full New York City experience. From curious, first-time museum visitors to seasoned theater audiences, all deserve simple and affordable access to the arts. With free admission to numerous museums alongside discounted tickets to iconic performance venues—including Broadway, Carnegie Hall, New York City Ballet, and more—our programs create a path for Columbians to explore art beyond campus with ease.
Supporting Student Art Making
The Arts Initiative supports extraordinary student artists through grants, ticketing, and promotion of on-campus performances and arts publications. Whether it's imaginative retellings of classic plays or innovative new works of writing, we are proud to champion the voices of campus creatives each semester—contributing to a long tradition of artistic expression at Columbia.
Creating Art and Community
Each year, the Arts Initiative partners with Miller Theatre to celebrate the beloved tradition of Morningside Lights. Featuring collaborative art making workshops followed by a procession of brilliant handmade lanterns, this project brings light and life to the public space while building bonds between Columbians and community members alike. We are excited to further strengthen these relationships as neighbors within and ambassadors of Morningside Heights.