NYU-SCPS Bulletin: A Tradition of Artful Covers

The first Bulletin, in August 1936, was no larger than a booklet and contained nearly 100 pages of courses in liberal arts, sciences, and college preparation. The cover featured Brooklyn-born artist Syd Browne’s pen-and-ink sketch of 20 Washington Square, the School’s first address.

Over the years, a variety of noteworthy artists have created cover art for the Bulletin, including Jonathan Milne, Al Hirschfeld, Takashi Murakami, and Peter Max. In the process, the Bulletin covers have become a powerful image for the School. “People look forward to seeing what’s on the cover,” says Dorothy Durkin, associate dean of strategic development, and the person who commissions the artwork. “Each semester the Bulletin cover draws readers to our wide and varied array of course offerings.”

The Fall 2009 edition of the NYU-SCPS Bulletin features a cover illustration by renowned New York designer, illustrator, and painter Seymour Chwast, celebrating the School’s 75th anniversary as an institution both “In and Of the City” and In and Of the World. Chwast’s work is exhibited at many major museums, including New York City’s Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

To see and read more about the NYU-SCPS bulletin's artful history visit our online gallery.