John Ashbery didn't just write poetry that bent language; he surrounded himself with art by his friends, and this Morgan show hangs the drawings that filled his rooms. It's a portrait of the New York School as a social world — poets and painters trading work and ideas — told through small, personal pieces. If you love poetry, mid-century New York or the intimacy of an artist's own collection, this is a charming, low-key gem.
What to expect
Expect a wall of drawings collected by Ashbery, many by friends from his artistic circle, shown at intimate scale. The pleasure is in the personal connections and the quality of the eye. A quiet, rewarding stop alongside the Morgan's other shows.
Good to know
- The 6 to 33rd Street, near Madison Avenue and 36th Street
- Combine with the Morgan's tarot and Hujar shows on one ticket
- The works are small and personal — lean in
- A calm, uncrowded alternative to the big-museum summer crush
- Best for poetry and mid-century-New-York fans
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Common questions
Whose collection is this?
The personal art collection of poet John Ashbery, focused on drawings by his artist friends.
Is it included with admission?
Yes, with general Morgan Library admission.
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