The DART Board: 05.14.2025
Wednesday, May 14-Sunday, May 18: LIC Arts Open
Had enough of global art fairs and commercial vibes? Join LIC Arts for 5 days filled with art, music, performances, and more. Immerse yourself in the local art scene and discover the zeitgeist of this vibrant art community, with Open Studios on May 17 & 18th from 12pm - 6pm. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for a good time, this festival has something for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy art openings, panel discussions, and performances, most of which happen in galleries but are just as likely to pop up in restaurants, a frame shop, real estate offices, or a community garden. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that showcases the best of LIC's artistic community. Don’t know where to start? Check the schedule of workshops, presentations, and fun evens here. LIC Open Artists here. Online festival map here. Sign up for the Kickoff Party, May 14, 6:30-9:30pm here.
Wednesday, May 14, 6:30pm: 80s Downtown Art Scene at MCNY
The Museum presents an in-depth conversation with legendary artists Chris “Daze” Ellis and acclaimed filmmaker Charlie Ahearn as they discuss the legacy of Martin Wong and his graffiti collection housed at the Museum of the City of New York. They will also reflect on the vibrant downtown arts scene of 1980s New York, a cultural firmament that has proved to be an influential era of artistic creativity. Above: Chris “Daze” Ellis, “The Explorers” [detail] (2021), spray paint, acrylic on canvas.Credit...Chris “Daze” Ellis and P·P·O·W
The event will also serve as the American book launch of Daze’s his latest publication, People and Places (Published by Sevil Dolmaci Gallery, Istanbul, Turkey). The book showcases works inspired by everyday scenes and individuals he encountered during his daily commutes across New York City, brought to life through pastel, acrylic, and spray paint compositions.
Presented in conjunction with Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection, this is an opportunity to hear from one of the pioneers of the graffiti movement as he reflects on memory, community, and the evolving landscape of New York City.
Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Stret, New York, NY Tickets
Thursday, May 15, 6:30-8:30: Weaving Workshop at Materials for the Arts
Join Materials for the Arts in an evening workshop exploring weaving with upcycled textiles with fiber artist Elodie Blanchard. Participants will learn applied techniques such as knotting, tying, and braiding to design and craft wall hangings or fiber art jewelry using materials sourced directly from our warehouse!
Elodie Blanchard is a textile artist based in Brooklyn, NY working between art and design. Her expertise is in textiles, creating and fabricating large scale fiber installations, designing woven and printed textiles, embroidering fiber pieces, and sharing her passion for recycling and materials with others.
Materials for the Arts, 33-00 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, NY Free with RSVP
Saturday, May 17, noon-1:30pm: Drumming Circle at Artspace
Find synchronicity with others through percussion. Join fellow artist and resident Francisco Perez for a mellow and relaxing drumming circle—no experience needed! Whether you’re new to percussion or a seasoned rhythm-maker, come and explore the joy of drumming in a supportive community setting. Bring your own drums. Future sessions: may 24 and 31. For info, email ciscoperes@gmail.com
Also this month at Artspace: The Moth storytelling workshops on May 14 and May 25, 6:30-8:30pm
El Barrio’s Artspace, 215 East 99th Street, New York, NY @elbarriosartspace
Saturday, May 17, 11am-1pm: Brooklyn Ceramic Potluck Tour at Powerhouse Arts
Tour the Studio Get an inside look at Powerhouse Arts’ world-class ceramics studio — including wheel throwing, sculpture, slip casting, 3D printing, and more!
Connect with Fellow Artists This is a great chance to meet other ceramic artists from all over Brooklyn — let’s build the BCAT community together!
What to Bring A dish, drink, or snacks to share — it's a potluck! And your ID for free entry.
Powerhouse Arts Community Ceramic Studio, 322 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY Info