FRIENDS is joining forces with Art on the Ave and Manhattan Sideways to showcase the breadth and diversity of local businesses in the Yorkville neighborhood and highlight immigrant connections of both current and past retail and residential tenants. One element of this project is to spotlight local retail spaces themselves, including vacant ones, by bringing them to life with original art by local artists that is both hopeful and relevant. If you, or anyone you know would like to submit artwork to be showcased on our exhibition, please do so here by October 20th.
Artists will be guided by the notion of “beyond the bricks” - the idea that a community is made up of not only the buildings that outline a neighborhood, but the people and ideas that form in those spaces. We want to see how you interpret the phrase. You may be inspired by the literal brick structures that define many New York buildings, or by the brick as a symbol of the fruit of hard labor and perseverance. You may be inspired by the idea of building something from nothing and creating a legacy. You may also consider the diverse cultures and heritage that enrich our city.
Submissions should reflect, in a literal or symbolic way, our organizations’ values. Inclusivity, empathy, equity, growth, action, and activism are some of the key values that applicants can integrate. We look at artist statements closely to ensure that they reflect the exhibition theme.