Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NAS Building open to the public?
No. Effective March 24, 2025, and until further notice, the NAS Building is closed to the general public. Entry is limited to visitors with a scheduled appointment for a specific meeting or purpose, and access is via the C Street entrance. In order to see an exhibition, register for a guided building tour or one of our special events. Visitors must present a government-issued photo ID.
Why is there an arts program at the National Academy of Sciences?
Arts and humanities are lenses through which we engage a broader audience. By exploring the intersections of art, science, and culture, we hope to make science accessible to the public and to help visitors experience how science impacts all aspects of our lives. For more information on the importance of integrating art and science, the National Academies’ Board on Higher Education and Workforce published a consensus study report in 2018 called Branches from the Tree: Integrating Art and Humanities into Science, Engineering, and Medicine.
What is DASER?
DASER, which stands for DC Art Science Evening Rendezvous, is an ongoing salon series that has been offered by CPNAS for over 13 years. The program creates opportunities to meet and discuss projects that exist between the fields of science and art. DASER also creates spaces for those interested in cross-disciplinary collaborations to connect with one another.
How often do you change the exhibits?
The exhibitions in the Upstairs Gallery and the West Gallery change approximately every six months. These spaces are primarily used to exhibit art that is inspired by science or reflects a collaboration between scientists and artists.
How do you select exhibitions and programs for CPNAS?
CPNAS accepts proposals year-round. Selections are made based upon innovative connections between art and science as well as the potential of the exhibit to provide a platform for public discourse around science. Proposals may be sent directly to the director of CPNAS, JD Talasek at jtalasek@nas.edu.