Colson Whitehead is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of eleven works of fiction and nonfiction, and is a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize, for The Nickel Boys and The Underground Railroad, which also won the National Book Award. A recipient of MacArthur and Guggenheim fellowships, he lives in New York City.
Writer
Meet Colson Whitehead
A short portrait filmed at the Hans Arnhold Center, introducing the work and ideas behind this semester in Berlin.
Listen to the Podcast
Hear the full conversation, recorded live at the Hans Arnhold Center.
Upcoming events
Discover what’s coming up in the Academy’s public program this semester.
Past events
Lectures, readings, and conversations from the Academy’s public program.
A discussion with novelist Colson Whitehead
15 Apr 2026
Berlin Journal Articles
Essays, interviews, and creative work published in the Academy’s annual magazine.
Books
Books written by fellows of the Academy, many begun during a semester in Berlin.
Videos
Lectures, readings, and conversations filmed at the Hans Arnhold Center.
On Becoming a Writer: An Evening with Colson Whitehead
A discussion with novelist Colson Whitehead.
15 Apr 2026
Explore Past Distinguished Visitors
Jill Abramson
Former Executive Editor, The New York Times; Senior Lecturer, Harvard University
Mahnaz Afkhami
Founder and President, Women’s Learning Partnership
Liaquat Ahamed
Author and Investment Manager, Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited
Doug Aitken
Artist, California