American fine arts society

Founded in 1889 in New York City, the group led by Howard Butler erected a building at 215 West 57th Street for the purpose of art education and exhibitions. The AFAS shared the facility with the Society of American Artists, Art Students League, and the Architectural League. Butler served as President for the first 17 years. Other artist members were Herbert Denman, William Coffin, John Ward Dunsmore, John White Alexander, James Champney, William Faxon, Frank Fowler and Edwin French. Sources: David Dearinger, 'Howard Russell Baker', "Paintings and Sculpture in the Collection of the National Academy of Design; "New York Times", 11/24/1889; Peter Hastings Falk, "Who Was Who in American Art"