Design Groups New York

AIxUX Virtual Summit 2026

2 half days. Real builds. An exclusive, hands-on virtual summit designed for UX professionals who want to master AI integration in their practice. Become an Agentic Designer—one who doesn't just use AI tools, but shapes systems, orchestrates complexity, and builds with intention. **What makes this summit unique?** * You’ll build something real * Make friends & build partnerships * Find your place in the AI landscape * Shift from passive prompting to deploying specialized agents that automate research, accelerate prototyping, and scale your output. * Explore new perspectives: See how different UX designers use AI tools in their workflow. * Spark career momentum: Grow your network and confidence with an active, ambitious community. **Workshops & Agenda Highlights** * Welcome * Keynote: Designer's New Mandate * Create Your Summit Agent * Trust, Transparency, & Control * Multimodal Futures * Orchestrating Complexities * Building Your Process * And more surprise sessions! **Featured Facilitators** [Danny Setiawan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dnystwn/), [Suyen Stevenson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/suyenlyn/), [Volkan Unsal](https://www.linkedin.com/in/volkanunsal/) , [Alexis Brochu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisbrochu/), [Renata Rocha](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rerocha/) , [Silvia Balu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/silviabalu/), [Corey Malone](https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreymalone/), [Esther Greenfield Jakar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-g-j/) **Ready to shape the future of UX with AI?** Reserve your spot, build your network, and get inspired to level up your impact in the UX and tech community! Get your ticket : [https://uxsupportgroup.com/summit](https://uxsupportgroup.com/summit)

Scaling Accessibility with Design Systems

This event will be online on [YouTube](https://youtu.be/_4k16DgOUMA) and in-person (New York City). **The speaker and live stream starts at 7:30 pm ET**. In-person attendees may arrive as early as 7 pm ET. If arriving late, please leave a comment on this page and someone will come down ASAP. **Description** Twenty million New Yorkers. Forty-five agencies. Tens of thousands of web pages, forms, and applications. What does it take to scale accessibility across an entire state? Jesse Gardner leads the Design System and Accessibility teams for the State of New York. He'll share what his teams have learned about scaling accessibility: resources and education to grow team maturity over time, manual accessibility reviews as a service, and a shared design infrastructure with built-in accessibility. He'll spend most of the talk on the design system. It's already helping teams scale accessible design, and it's increasingly serving as a foundation for accessibility in AI-assisted code-generation. This talk is for the full A11yNYC community: engineers, designers, advocates, content strategists, lawyers, librarians, researchers, and anyone who wants to understand where accessibility is headed in the next few years. Topics include: * Why a design system is one of the highest-leverage accessibility investments any organization can make * A live, plain-language demonstration of how AI tools interact with this kind of shared guidance (you don't need knowledge to follow along) * Why AI tools often produce inaccessible work, and what it looks like when you give them clear instructions and accessible building blocks * Honest lessons from coordinating accessibility work across the state * Practical advice for any accessibility program, no matter the size or budget Attendees will gain: * A real-world perspective from large-scale government services * Practical examples for scaling accessibility beyond "just work harder" * Guidance for harnessing AI to ensure accessible output **Presenter bio** [Jesse Gardner](https://www.linkedin.com/in/plasticmind/) is Director of Accessibility and Design Systems at the New York State Office of Information Technology Services, where he leads two teams serving more than 45 state agencies and 20 million New Yorkers. He built the New York State Design System from scratch and led the state's response to the DOJ Title II accessibility compliance deadline (recently extended to April 2027). Before joining the public sector, Jesse spent more than two decades in software engineering and design leadership. He speaks regularly on the intersection of design systems, accessibility, and AI (most recently at Into Design Systems 2026) and writes at plasticmind.com. He lives in upstate New York with his wife and four kids. **Accessibility** The presentation will have human captions [CC], not automatic captions. For ASL preferred speakers, learn about the [Aira ASL App](https://aira.io/aira-asl-app/), and download it before the event. For the Blind and Low Vision community, learn about the [Aira Explorer App](https://aira.io/aira-explorer-app/) and download it before the event. To access the online webinar for audio description, use the A11yNYC Access Offer to call, or simply inform your Visual Interpreter that you'd like that offer applied when you connect. For additional accessibility requirements, please email meryl@equalentry.com **two weeks** **before** the event. **Livestream** [YouTube link](https://youtu.be/_4k16DgOUMA) Provided by Internet Society Accessibility SIG. **Location details** The event is on the 4th floor. Everyone must be accompanied to the event on the 4th floor. Because everyone needs to be escorted, please arrive early or on time. When you enter the ground floor, a representative from A11yNYC will be there to provide elevator access. The building is near several transit stops: 6 train * Spring Street (non-accessible stop): 100 feet * Canal Street (accessible stop): 0.4 miles B/D/F/M * Broadway-Lafayette St., 0.2 miles NQRW trains * Prince Street (non-accessible stop): 0.2 miles * Canal Street (accessible stop): 0.3 miles M1 / M55 Bus lines * Broadway/Spring Street stop: 500 feet Cabs and rideshares can let passengers out right near the building entrance **Important note** Google Maps currently incorrectly pins the location around the corner on Crosby Street. The entrance is not on Crosby. The entrance is on Spring Street, inside the Marc Jacobs International building. It is roughly halfway between Crosby and Lafayette, almost directly across Spring Street from the Chipotle restaurant. **Traveling to the event?** We recommend [Hotel on Rivington](https://www.hotelonrivington.com/) or [Crosby Street Hotel](https://www.firmdalehotels.com/hotels/crosby-street-hotel). **Accreditation** All A11yNYC meetups are pre-approved for IAAP Continuing Accessibility Education Credits (CAEC). **Sponsors** Thanks to [Aira](https://aira.io/), [AKQA](https://www.akqa.com/), [Deque](https://www.deque.com/), [Evinced](https://www.evinced.com/), [Equal Entry](https://equalentry.com/), and [Fable](https://makeitfable.com/) for sponsoring. Want to be a sponsor? Contact meryl@equalentry.com

Signs of Creative Minds: "Arts" and Sign: HOST NEEDED!

UX Happy Hour irl (open to all levels)

######## You need to bring a physical Government Issued ID to be allowed to stay. It's the Law. ######## Whether you're a seasoned UX pro, just breaking into the field, or simply curious about design — this is your invite to pull up a chair and join the conversation. UX Happy Hour is a laid-back, no-agenda gathering where designers, researchers, product thinkers, and anyone design-curious can connect over drinks in a low-pressure setting. No slides. No networking theater. **Why attend:** • Meet new connection in organic way • Get feedback and fresh perspectives on your work (i.e. portfolio) or advice for your career • Stay sharp on what's happening in UX, AI, product, and tech right now • Meet potential collaborators, mentors, or future coworkers • Cheap drinks ($5 Guinness) **What to expect:** • Warm, welcoming crowd across all experience levels • Candid conversations about design, careers, tools, and everything in between • A great chill bar in the East Village to do it all in **Where to find us:** We're usually tucked in by the ATM at the back of Mona's. If you're not sure where we are, just ask the bartender — they know us! Come solo, bring a friend, or drag a coworker along. The more the merrier. Interested in sponsoring this event? Reach out to Danny (one of the organizers) for our sponsorship rate card.

NEW HOST NEEDED: Sign & Sing -- Fridays W72nd 4:30 PM

Marking the 15th Global Accessibility Awareness Day

**NOTE:** This will be a [ticketed in-person event](https://events.humanitix.com/15th-gaad-nyc), hosted by GAAD Foundation in partnership with A11yNYC. To register, visit [https://events.humanitix.com/15th-gaad-nyc](https://events.humanitix.com/15th-gaad-nyc). The Meetup platform will not be used to register for this event. *Each individual who plans to attend must complete their own registration.* **Description** The GAAD Foundation invites you to join us to celebrate the 15th Global Accessibility Awareness Day #GAAD. It is also the fifth anniversary of the GAAD Foundation. Co-hosted with the A11yNYC Meetup. Anna Thielke, GAAD Foundation Executive Secretary and Treasurer, and Mindy Morgan, GAAD Foundation Board Member Emeritus, will be live in New York to celebrate these two milestones. There will be snacks, drinks, networking, and brief remarks from several speakers. **Accessibility** Event accessibility details and instructions to request additional accommodations can be found on the registration page: [https://events.humanitix.com/15th-gaad-nyc](https://events.humanitix.com/15th-gaad-nyc) .

LET'S GO ON A PRIVATE TOUR OF THE NEUE GALERIE

# 🏛️ **New York City Art, Film, Museum, Social Club** ## ✨ *Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele & The Vienna Secession – A Private Docent-Led Experience* **Neue Galerie New York \| Saturday\, May 23 \| 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM** Arrival time is no later than 10:45am please. ## 🌟 Event Description Join us for a truly special and **intimate cultural experience** at the **Neue Galerie New York**, one of the city’s most refined and distinctive museums, dedicated to early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design. For this visit, we will enjoy a **private, docent-led tour**, offering a deeper and more meaningful exploration of the museum’s extraordinary collection. *** ## 🎨 *The Vienna Secession & Its Masters* At the heart of our visit is the groundbreaking artistic movement known as the **Vienna Secession**, which redefined art at the turn of the 20th century. Led by artists such as **Gustav Klimt** and **Egon Schiele**, this movement broke away from traditional academic styles and embraced bold new forms of expression—combining beauty, symbolism, and psychological depth. During our guided experience, we will explore: * Klimt’s iconic works, including his richly ornamented and luminous compositions * Schiele’s striking and emotionally charged portraits * The broader artistic and cultural context of Vienna during this transformative period Our docent will provide insight into the **historical background, artistic techniques, and meaning behind these works**, bringing the collection to life in a way that goes far beyond a self-guided visit. *** ## 👥 Our Experience This will be a **private group tour (limited attendance)**, creating a more engaging and personal experience for all participants. Together, we will enjoy: * A **guided exploration** of the museum’s highlights * Deeper understanding of the art and artists * A relaxed, thoughtful group atmosphere *** ## 🗓️ Event Details * **Date:** Saturday, May 23, 2026 * **Meeting Time:** 10:45 AM * **Tour Time:** 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM * **Location:** Neue Galerie New York 1048 Fifth Avenue (at 86th Street) *** ## 💲 Cost ### ✨ **Special Group Rate: $40 per person** This private, docent-led experience is being offered at a **significantly reduced rate** for our group. ### 📊 Cost Breakdown (for transparency) * Private guided tour (group fee): **$350** * Museum admission: **$28 per person × 10 members = $280** * **Total cost: $630** When divided among 10 members: * **$630 ÷ 10 = $63 per person** ### 🎁 Your Member Rate To make this experience more accessible, I am personally **subsidizing $23 per person**, bringing your final cost to: 👉 **$40 per person** *** ### ✅ What’s Included * Full museum admission * A **private docent-led tour** **Note:** You do **not** need to purchase a separate museum ticket—everything is included in the $40 event cost. *** ### 🔗 Payment A payment link is provided on this event page for the **$40 fee**. *** ## ⚠️ Arrival & Museum Guidelines To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, please take note of the following: * **Please arrive by 10:45 AM**, as our tour will begin promptly at 11:00 AM * Upon arrival, we will check in as a group and proceed through a brief security screening before meeting our docent ### 🎒 Personal Items * Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, and food are **not permitted in the galleries** * Complimentary coat check is available for these items * **No liquids are allowed inside the museum** (empty water bottles may be checked) ## ⚠️ Important Notes * Attendance will be **limited to ensure a high-quality experience** * Please arrive on time, as the tour will begin promptly * This is an **intimate, guided experience**, and we will remain together as a group throughout the tour *** ## 💬 Why This Event Is Special This is not simply a museum visit—it is a **curated cultural experience** that offers rare access to expert insight within one of New York’s most elegant settings. With a private docent guiding us through the masterpieces of Klimt, Schiele, and the Vienna Secession, this promises to be a **refined, enriching, and memorable morning**. ## 📵 Photography Policy Please note that **photography is not permitted anywhere inside the Neue Galerie**. This is a strict museum policy, and all members are expected to fully comply. We appreciate your understanding in helping to respect the museum’s guidelines and preserve the experience for all visitors. ## 🍽️ Optional Post-Tour Lunch at Café Sabarsky Following our tour, members are invited to continue the experience with an optional lunch at the museum’s renowned: ### *Café Sabarsky* Located within the Neue Galerie, Café Sabarsky is widely regarded as one of the most authentic Viennese cafés in New York City, offering a beautifully recreated early 20th-century atmosphere that perfectly complements the art we will have just experienced. Members may choose to enjoy: * Traditional Viennese dishes * Coffee and pastries * A relaxed and elegant setting for conversation This is a wonderful opportunity to: * Extend the cultural experience * Reflect on the exhibition * Enjoy time together in a classic European café setting Participation is entirely optional, and seating will be based on availability.

High Line & Hudson Yards Spring Walk (50 & Over Social Stroll)

**\*To Attend Get Tickets At:** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/high-line-hudson-yards-social-stroll-50-over-tickets-1985775141905](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/high-line-hudson-yards-social-stroll-50-over-tickets-1985775141905) (\*First 5 save $5 by using discount code "5" at checkout. Multiple groups are co-organizing so don't go by the RSVP's Based on previous walks, we'll have around 20.) Kick off the Summer on an invigorating, scenic, and a healthy outdoor walk at NYC's most beautiful locations. Join others in your own age group at our stroll through the High Line & Hudson Yards landscape. It is the perfect location for our popular 50 & Over Social Walk. Get some fresh air, some exercise, and meet some new people in your age range. Plus, enjoy the views, unique architecture & cutting-edge art that is all a part of the High Line and Hudson Yards. Our social walks are an extremely popular way to meet others. This event very casual and non-awkward + our host will help to make introductions. During the walk, you will randomly be paired with others in the beginning then rotate at designated times so that you get to meet everyone participating. Afterwards, you're welcome to hang out and exchange contact info with others. FAQs: **Where to meet?** Exact meeting location with host contact info will be sent to all paid attendees day of the event. **How many will attend?** We will have enough attendees so everyone has enough time to meet and get to know all attending. **What if rains?** We will email attendees a new date. **Can I come alone?** Yes, about 90% come on their own. **Ages?** 50s & Over. Gender balance is not guaranteed but we usually get a good mix. **How much?** $15-$25 depending upon when you get ticket and spots left. For more fun events follow: **[https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)**

Street, Travel & Cityscape Photo : May 23- May 24, Sat/ Sun 1:30 PM.- 5:00 PM.

[Street, Travel & Cityscape Photography Workshop (2 sessions): May 23-May 24, Saturday & Sunday 1:30 PM-5:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors. Intensive!](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-tp1.i-02.1.htm "Street, Travel & Cityscape Photography Workshop (2 sessions): May 23-May 24, Saturday & Sunday 1:30 PM-5:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors. Intensive!, CO-TP1.i-02.1") $ 375.- \* Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendess as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com **🏙️ STREET, TRAVEL & CITYSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY:** Urban workshop is an essential mix of **Landscape, Cityscape, and Street Photography**, making it ideal for the frequent traveler, the photojournalist, and the photographer who loves shooting anywhere, everywhere. This intensive course is mostly conducted **outdoors** and focuses on honing compositional and technical skills specific to dynamic, real-world environments. You'll be fully prepared for your next outdoor adventure, from capturing expressive street portraits to stunning natural landscapes. ## What You Will Master: * **Location Composition:** Learn savvy techniques that will turn your landscape and cityscape images into outstanding ones, focusing on perspective, lighting, and specialized composition rules for outdoor scenes. * **Street & Candid Techniques:** Capture scenes and moments with confidence, including environmental portraiture and the ethics of shooting in public spaces. * **Real-Time Practice:** Experienced instructors guide you through various outdoor shooting scenarios (High Line, Union Square, Central Park, etc.) with immediate review of the work photographed during class. * **Light Manipulation:** The ins and outs of manipulating natural and urban light for impactful location photos. | Requirements & Availability | | --------------------------- | | **Requirements:** Any camera (DSLRs to Phone cameras). Note: This course will not review the fundamentals of camera functions and exposure; students are expected to know how to manage their cameras (auto or manual mode recommended). | | **Assumed Knowledge:** Digital Photography I or equivalent level is recommended. | | **Note:** Classes take place mainly outdoors. Please be prepared for weather conditions. | | **Available Versions:** Full course (various duration options) or Single day seminar (brief intro). | **Note** This course will not review the fundamentals of camera functions and exposure; students are expected to know how to manage their cameras (in automatic or manual mode). View more dates and classes at: https://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-nyc-s/1814.htm

Where Art Meets Machine: Creating Stories That Change How We See

Award-winning directors **[Michaela Ternasky-Holland](https://michaelaternaskyholland.com/?utm_source=luma)** and **[Aaron Santiago](https://aaron.work/?utm_source=luma)** are building worlds at the cutting edge of AI, VR, and immersive media. ​Rather than create for spectacle, their aim is to **collapse the distance between strangers.** ​​In collaboration with the **[National Arts Club](https://www.nacnyc.org/?utm_source=luma)** and its **[Art and Technology Committee](https://www.nacnyc.org/arts-and-programs/committees?utm_source=luma)**, this conversation will reveal how they use **generative AI, motion capture, 360° cinematography, projection mapping, and volumetric capture** to tell stories that cross lines of culture, ability, and lived experience. ​From Emmy-winning VR documentaries screened at **Tribeca and Cannes** to experimental AI films created with OpenAI's SORA, Ternasky-Holland and Santiago work where technology stops being a tool and starts becoming a language. ​They'll discuss their solo projects, their collaborations, and the question at the heart of their practice: **Does technology inspire art, or does art give technology meaning?** ​Whether you're a creator, technologist, or just curious about where storytelling is headed, this is a rare chance to hear from two artists **shaping the future of how we connect.** ​​Reserve your spot and **arrive early**. Space is limited.

Beers & Data

WE ARE BACK IN PERSON!

Protecting Your Ideas: IP for Makers, Builders & Founders

Join us at Fat Cat Fab Lab for a practical presentation on intellectual property and patent law tailored for makers, builders, hardware/software developers, and early-stage founders. Led by New York patent attorney and inventor Stefan Knirr, this session will explore the fundamentals of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets through the lens of real-world product development and commercialization. Topics will include: • What patents do — and do not — protect • Provisional vs. non-provisional patent strategies • Public disclosure risks and timing • Protecting prototypes, code, CAD files, branding, and creative assets • Common IP mistakes early-stage builders make • Practical considerations around cost, filing strategy, and commercialization The session is designed to be practical, accessible, and directly relevant to creators developing products, launching startups, collaborating with others, or preparing to bring ideas to market. 6:30–6:45 → Arrival / networking 6:45–7:30 → Main presentation 7:30–8:00 → Audience Q&A + project-specific questions Free and open to the community. Limited seating available.