At a Glance
Time Needed: 60 min.
Ages: All
Allows Food/Drink: No
Luggage Storage: No
79 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 Get Directions
International Center of Photography Videos
A look into Twin Cities: Held Together, a Magnum Foundation exhibition presented during ICP’s recent Photobook Fest, featuring conversations with some of the photographers whose work was on view. The exhibition brought together Minnesota imagemakers documenting collective resistance to ongoing immigration raids in their communities. Featured artists included Drew Arrieta, Jaida Grey Eagle, Tim Evans, Lexi Parra, Joseph Rushmore, Xavier Tavera Castro, and Patience Zalanga—together, their work traces how solidarity takes shape in moments of urgency.
From the classroom to graduation to the gallery walls. These scenes from ICP's 2026 Onsite One-Year Certificate Program Graduation and the opening of Evidence of Existence: The 2026 ICP Recent Graduates Exhibition celebrate a year of creative growth. If you're ready to deepen your practice and join a community of dedicated imagemakers, applications for ICP's Onsite One-Year Certificate Programs are still being accepted on a rolling basis. Apply at icp.org/school/oyc
The Lower East Side may look very different today, but much of its history still exists through the work of photographers like Weegee, Lee Sievan, Andreas Feininger, and Bill Witt who preserved fleeting moments of everyday life across the rapidly changing neighborhood. For Lower East Side History Month, we revisited several streets photographed during the 1940s, pairing historic images from ICP’s collection with the same locations nearly 80 years later. Images: Bill Witt, [Greeting at $2.00 Shoes, Lower East Side, New York City}, 1947, Gift of Gary Witt, 1996 (3.1996) Lee Sievan, [Orchard & Rivington Streets--Pushcarts], 1946, Gift of Lee Sievan, 1990 (20.1990) Weegee, [Juggler Bill Brown, Lower East Side, New York], 1947, Bequest of Wilma Wilcox, 1993 (2008.1993) Andreas Feininger, [Lower East Side shops], 1940, Gift of Andreas Feininger, 1976 (781.1976) Bill Witt, [The Eye, Lower East Side, New York], 1948, Gift of Gary Witt, 1996 (4.1996) Lee Sievan, [Chatham Square], 1946, Gift of Lee Sievan, 1990 (1.1990)
Betty Catroux was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Carmen Saint and Elim O’Shaughnessy. She became the unique and everlasting muse of Yves Saint Laurent, whose work she inspired for decades. Celebrated by many of the most influential photographers of the twentieth century, Catroux remains one of fashion’s most iconic figures worldwide. She has been married throughout her life to French interior designer François Catroux, with whom she has two children, Maxime and Daphné.
ICP Youth Programs invites young people from the greater NYC metro area and beyond to join the ICP photography community and develop their skills as visual storytellers and changemakers. Through our on-site programs, public programs, online class offerings, or partnerships, we welcome teens and pre-teens and help them explore a wide range of photographic techniques, genres, and wide-ranging themes.
"Exciting" was the word most used to describe ICP’s fifth Photobook Fest last weekend, where we hosted over 75 publishers from around the world from May 8–10. A selection of publishers and attendees told us how it felt to be part of the weekend and picked some of their current favorites from across the wide range of photo books and zines available. Some of the publishers and artists highlighted here include: KGP MONOLITH, Rachelle Mozman Solano, Subjectively Objective, James Parker, and Stephen Ferry. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a Photobook Fest regular, we'd love to hear about your experience in the comments. And if you weren’t able to be there this time, works by some of the participating publishers are available through the ICP Shop at shop.icp.org.
More in Lower East Side
More Museums
- The Tenement Museum
- New Museum
- Museum at Eldridge Street
- National Museum of the American Indian
- National September 11 Memorial & Museum
- The Rubin Museum of Art
- Whitney Museum of American Art
- The Morgan Library & Museum
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Museum of Arts and Design
International Center of Photography News
Multidisciplinary artist Neil Totton was named the inaugural recipient of wild project's Mikéah Jennings Artist-in-Residence program, receiving two weeks of free theater access and financial support to develop and perform a work-in-progress.
J. Geils Band frontman Peter Wolf will receive an honorary degree from Massachusetts College of Art and Design at its 2026 Commencement in Boston, alongside photographer Abelardo Morell and Harvard Professor Sarah Lewis.
JACK will present UNDOXX: A Series for Untangling Censorship, curated and organized by zavé martohardjono, Maya Simone Z., and Jamie Chan, November 6 - 23, 2024.
Photoville NYC 2024 will kick off with an event-packed, free-to-the-public opening weekend in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Learn more about the exhibitions!
The emotional power of photography – and the ability of an image to evoke memories – will be illustrated in an exhibition of new photographic work by Japanese artist Yamamoto Masao.
The decennial of Black Artists Retreat, hosted by the artist Theaster Gates and Rebuild Foundation, took place September 15-17, 2023, returning to Chicago after the last two editions were hosted in New York and London, respectively. Learn more about the event here!
Stefanie Nelson Dancegroup and David Shenk present the Moving Memory project: fill in the blank on October 6. Get event and ticket information here!
Stefanie Nelson Dancegroup and David Shenk present the Moving Memory project: fill in the blank, a festival devoted to memory and forgetting. The festival features original dance works, visual art installation, and live music.
Mickalene Thomas will unveil a collection of new work in the exhibition Je t'adore at Yancey Richardson from September 9 through November 11, 2023.
Discover the enchanting Slowdancing exhibition by David Michalek at New York City Ballet. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing performances and experience the beauty of dance like never before.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of artist Mickalene Thomas at the Je T'adore Exhibition held at Yancey Richardson. Discover her latest artwork and experience her unique artistic style. Running from September 9 to November 11, 2023.
Intimate Strangers, an exhibition of powerful and highly personal photographs and video made by visual artists who have positioned a parent or parents as central subjects in a body of work, will be on view at Yancey Richardson from July 12 through August 18, 2023. An opening will be held on Wednesday, July 12, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Bruce Davidson: The Way Back will be on view at Howard Greenberg Gallery from June 22 through September 16, 2023. Selected by the acclaimed photographer from his vast archive, the exhibition will present previously unpublished work dating from 1957-1977.
Photoville, the Brooklyn-based nonprofit that brings breathtaking photography within reach of New Yorkers in all boroughs—free of charge—will present Photoville NYC 2023 (June 3 - 18).
The Photography Show presented by AIPAD opens on Friday, March 31, and runs through Sunday, April 2, 2023, at Center415 on Fifth Avenue between 37th and 38th streets.
International Center of Photography Frequently Asked Questions
The closest subway stops to the International Center of Photography at 79 Essex St in New York City are:
1. Delancey St/Essex St (F, M, J, Z lines) - This station is just a short walk away from the International Center of Photography. You can take the F, M, J, or Z trains to reach this stop. [Click here for subway updates](http://www.mta.info)
2. Bowery (J, Z lines) - Another nearby option is the Bowery station, which is also served by the J and Z trains. From there, it's just a few minutes' walk to the International Center of Photography.
While you're in the area, there are a few other attractions and recommendations you might find interesting:
1. Tenement Museum - Located at 103 Orchard St, the Tenement Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side during the 19th and 20th centuries. It's a fascinating and educational experience.
2. Katz's Delicatessen - Just a few blocks away from the International Center of Photography, Katz's Deli is a New York City institution known for its delicious pastrami sandwiches and classic Jewish deli fare. It's a must-visit for food lovers.
3. The Lower East Side - Take some time to explore the vibrant and trendy Lower East Side neighborhood. You'll find a mix of trendy boutiques, art galleries, bars, and restaurants. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere.
I hope you have a fantastic time exploring the International Center of Photography and the surrounding area!
The closest bus stops to the International Center of Photography at 79 Essex St in New York City are:
1. Essex St/Grand St: This bus stop is served by the M9 bus. You can check for updates on the M9 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=10002).
2. Essex St/Delancey St: This bus stop is served by the M14A and M14D buses. You can check for updates on the M14A and M14D bus schedules [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=10002).
Please note that bus schedules and routes are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your trip. Enjoy your visit to the International Center of Photography!
The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York City can vary depending on your level of interest in photography and the specific exhibitions on display. On average, visitors typically spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum.
If you are a photography enthusiast or have a deep interest in the art form, you may want to allocate more time to fully immerse yourself in the exhibits and take advantage of any guided tours or workshops available. On the other hand, if you have limited time or a more casual interest, a shorter visit can still provide a worthwhile experience.
Keep in mind that the ICP often hosts temporary exhibitions, so it's a good idea to check their website or call ahead to see what's currently on display. This will help you plan your visit accordingly and ensure you don't miss any must-see exhibitions.
Overall, whether you're a photography aficionado or simply curious about the art form, a visit to the International Center of Photography is a fantastic opportunity to explore the world of photography and its impact on our culture.
The International Center of Photography (ICP) is a renowned museum and school dedicated to photography and visual culture. While ICP itself does not have a food or drink policy, it is important to note that food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the galleries. This policy helps to preserve and protect the artworks on display.
However, there are several cafes, restaurants, and food vendors located near ICP where you can grab a bite before or after your visit. Some popular options include Shake Shack, Le Pain Quotidien, and The Smith. These establishments offer a variety of cuisines and are within walking distance of the museum.
Additionally, if you're looking for a quick snack or beverage during your visit, ICP has a café on the premises where you can enjoy light refreshments. Just make sure to consume your food and drinks in designated areas and not near the artworks.
Remember, it's always a good idea to check the specific policies of any museum or cultural institution you plan to visit, as they may vary. Enjoy your time at ICP and your culinary adventures in New York City!
The International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility. Due to security reasons and limited space, they do not allow visitors to bring large bags or luggage into the museum. It is recommended to leave your bags at your hotel or find a nearby luggage storage service. There are several options available throughout the city, including luggage storage facilities and services that offer secure storage for your belongings while you explore the museum and other attractions.
Yes, the International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York City is a fantastic destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. The ICP is a renowned museum and school dedicated to the art of photography, offering a wide range of exhibitions and educational programs.
One of the great things about the ICP is that photography is a universal language that transcends barriers of culture and language. The visual nature of photography allows visitors to appreciate the art and storytelling regardless of their language skills.
Additionally, the ICP offers multilingual materials and audio guides in several languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Japanese. These resources enhance the visitor experience by providing additional context and information about the exhibitions.
Whether you are a photography enthusiast or simply interested in exploring visual arts, the ICP is a must-visit destination in New York City. It offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors from all over the world, regardless of their language background.
The International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York City is a fantastic destination for photography enthusiasts of all ages. While there is no specific age range recommendation, the exhibits and programs at ICP cater to a wide audience, from children to adults. The museum showcases a diverse range of photography collections, including historical and contemporary works, so visitors of all ages can appreciate and learn from the art form. Additionally, ICP offers educational programs and workshops suitable for both kids and adults, making it a great place for families to explore together. So, whether you're a budding photographer or simply have an interest in the medium, ICP is definitely worth a visit during your time in New York City.
Videos
