American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters

American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters, organization to promote literature, music, and the fine arts in the United States. Based in New York City, it was formed in 1976 from the merger of the National Institute of Arts and Letters (founded 1898) and the American Academy of Arts and Letters (founded 1904). The organization, consisting of 250 members who serve for life, makes awards to American writers, artists, and composers, sponsors exhibits of their works, and purchases works to donate to museums.