LISC NY closes const./permanent loan with Aperture for new hdqtrs.

Manhattan, NY LISC NY closed a major construction and permanent loan with Aperture to support the renovation of its new home at 380 Columbus Ave.

Founded in 1952, Aperture connects the photography community and its audiences through exhibitions, publications, and education programs that reach more than a million people each year. The organization’s work fosters creativity, dialogue, and a deeper appreciation of images as powerful tools for storytelling and social reflection.

A historic building with distinctive character, the 10,817-square-foot space will house Aperture’s new headquarters, featuring a bookstore, flexible spaces for art installations, programs, and events, and collaborative office areas and production facilities. As a ground floor space near the American Museum of Natural History, the property is in a location in a residential and commercial district, providing greater visibility and exposure for the organization’s work and allowing Aperture to expand its reach.

“Aperture has long been a cultural anchor in New York City and a global leader in photography,” said Christine O’Connell, senior director, capital investments & expanded markets at LISC NY. “We are proud to support their vision for a permanent home that will not only strengthen their operations but also deepen their ability to inspire and educate future generations.”

“This is an extraordinary opportunity for Aperture to build a home that reflects our mission and strengthens our future,” said Sarah Meister, executive director of Aperture. “With LISC’s partnership and the support of our generous donors and greater community, we are creating a dynamic space that will amplify the power of photography and its role in shaping culture.” 

Aperture’s educational programs include photographer-led workshops in New York City public schools, artist talks, scholarly conferences, and pre-professional internships, as well as globally touring exhibitions that engage audiences worldwide. Once open to the public, the new headquarters will enable Aperture to create new opportunities to increase sales revenue, membership, and donor support, strengthening long-term sustainability.

Project funding to date has been secured from Aperture’s ongoing capital campaign, a New York State Council on the Arts capital grant, grants from the City of New York, and equity, in addition to LISC’s financing.