How to Research an Artist: Getting Started

When it comes to doing research on a particular artist, there are several options available in the Art & Architecture Collection at The New York Public Library. This guide serves as an introduction to these resources and will provide helpful hints for starting your research.

As you begin your search it is most important that you know the correct spelling of the artist's last name, and/or possible variations, and at least the first initial of their first name. This is especially helpful when researching lesser known artists.

Consult some of the best sources for finding an artist's preferred name:

• Getty Union List of Artist Names (ULAN)

• Library of Congress (LC) Name Authority File