Our Story

30 years of experience

With over 30 years of experience Works in Progress NYC, prides itself on quality workmanship, unparalleled customer service, on being an approved New York City Vendor, and for having a history of community involvement.

Works in Progress NYC, (originally Design East) was founded in 1983, by artists Emily Clark and Jon Millstein in a small storefront in the East Village. By selling one-of-a-kind, hand-painted t-shirts and jewelry, they rapidly built a reputation for their creative, artistic and high-quality silk-screened t-shirts and graphic designs.

In 1996 Works in Progress NYC was approached by the internship coordinator from a local high school seeking businesses to host full-time interns. The first interns were instrumental in developing the Internship Program as a hands-on learning experience, where students become actively engaged in all aspects of the business.

501 (c) 3 non-profit organization

Word of the Program spread, and internship counsellors from other NYC high schools began calling about placements. In 2004 Works in Progress NYC registered as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, they increased their community outreach by actively seeking New York City Public Schools and Schools needing to place students in hands-on internships. Since then the Works in Progress NYC Internship Program has opened its doors to approximately 35 students annually.

Works In Progress created Lines from NY a design project connecting interns and the New York creative community, and is a proud member of Fourth Arts Block (FABnyc).