The Bard Graduate Center

I’ve only visited this beautiful gallery/art center a few times, but each time came away a bit more knowledgeable and pleased I had gone.

Fortunately, Trish remembered Sightlines was closing on December 31–we’d had months to see it, but of course, the bigger museums and more known galleries pop into mind first so gems like the Bard often get pushed to the end of the list or sometimes don’t make it at all—much to our detriment.

The Bard Graduate Center is located in a former townhouse on West 86th Street just off of Central Park.  I incorrectly assumed there would be no way I could use my scooter there, but like all other public buildings, they must be and are accessible.  To the left of the stairs outside the front door you’ll see a gate with a wheelchair symbol.  On the gate is a buzzer, which lets people at the front desk know someone is outside who needs assistance.

The day I was there they came immediately, opening the door to operate a small lift which tucks away inside when it’s no longer needed.  These lifts seem to be standard in size, which means my scooter fits, but just barely.  I opted to load it manually and climb the stairs rather than ride it up.  At the top the turn is a bit tight, so I kept it in neutral and manually moved the scooter off the lift into the main reception area.  Their staff was very willing to help, but I know to keep the tiller straight and so did it myself.  Once I got my bearings Trish and I set out to view the exhibit, occupying three floors.  An elevator, large enough to carry me on the scooter and Trish, took us to each floor. 

One of the particularly nice things about the Bard is the intimacy of the galleries.  Here you are one with the art.  If you choose, you can take the time to read every label and see all the details.  That being said, however, I did feel the need to be particularly mindful of where people and objects were around me so as not to bang into someone or some object.  Other than that, the art was interesting, displayed with thought and at the end Trish and I agreed we were delighted we’d made the effort to see it before the show ended.

If you have the opportunity to see Sightlines elsewhere, you won’t be disappointed.  The new show Simultaneous Saturdays looks to be another interesting exhibit and this time we plan to get there long before it closes.  Click here to learn more https://www.bgc.bard.edu/SimultaneousSaturdays.

Location:

Bard Graduate Center 18 West 86th Street New York, NY. 10024

Directions:

https://www.bgc.bard.edu/exhibitions/26/visit

Restrooms:

All the restrooms have one handicapped stall.  I found the hallway to the restroom on the third floor too narrow to make the turn easily into the restroom with my big scooter, but smaller scooters should be fine.  The restroom was bright, clean and the handicapped stall roomy.

Dining:

There is no dining in the Bard, but the neighborhood is filled with lots of restaurants.  One of my favorites, which has expanded seating on the sidewalk (not a shed, but part of the restaurant) is Jacob’s Pickles.  During off hours I’ve always found there is plenty of room for my scooter. And you’ll be happy to learn there is an easy to access handicapped restroom on the main level.  Jacob’s Pickles is on Amsterdam at 85th Street.