NYC Exhibitions to see This Fall
This fall, New York City is brimming with remarkable exhibitions, and there's no better way to spend an afternoon than wandering through the halls of galleries and museums, surrounded by the power of artistic expression. Art feeds my soul. It sparks my passion, keeps me alive, and allows me to uncover more about myself through the lens of an artist's world, and fall is a season for learning, searching, harvesting, and introspection—a time to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. I've highlighted a few must-see exhibitions this season that will inspire just that.
Yes, Chef | Water street projects
Located in WSA’s exhibition space on the 5th and 6th floors, the Yes Chef exhibit is a curated collaborative showcasing works from 34 talented artists that explore the complex relationship between power and food. Across cultures, diasporas, and cuisines, classism has been an ever-present theme in our food systems. This exhibit delves into those dynamics, examining how we navigate and participate in them. One of my favorite aspects of this exhibition is not just its thoughtful curation, but the inclusion of a pop-up restaurant. Black Caesar, created and inspired by Tavares Strachan’s latest work. It is the perfect complement to this deliciously thought-provoking exhibit—a true chef's kiss.
Water Street Projects | Oct 3 – Nov 2, 2024 | 161 Water St, New York | Floors 5&6
GROUP HUG | Onassis ONX
Brought to you by Onassis ONX, the Group Hug exhibit is a groundbreaking showcase of large-scale, site-specific video game installations. Curated in collaboration with Water Street Projects, Julia Kaganskiy, Serpentine Arts Technologies, and Rhizome, this exhibition delves into a dystopian future where survival depends on collective effort. Group Hug immerses participants in video games that require them to become an integral part of the narrative, relying on collaboration with other players to overcome challenges. It’s intriguing, cool, and a bit terrifying—but undeniably dope.
Water Street Projects | Oct 3 – Nov 2, 2024 | 161 Water St, New York | Floors 5&6
LAMBON | RENELL MEDRANO - WE PRESENT
From the brilliant mind of Renell Medrano comes Lambon, an incredibly dope collection from the talented photographer. I’ve admired Renell’s work for years, but her recent collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers has brought her even more well-deserved recognition. Her photography is stunning—vibrant, exotic, sexy, gritty, nostalgic, and unapologetically Black. Lambon speaks directly to creators, challenging them to seek self-liberation through their personal stories. The subjects featured are victors—individuals who have wrestled with self, morality, and fear, yet emerged as leaders. The exhibit poses the question: when everything falls apart, who remains standing? As Renell enters a new chapter of her career, she closes this one with a bang. This is a must-see.
Water Street Projects | Oct 3 – Nov 2, 2024 | 161 Water St, New York | Floor 3
Jam Sessions | Norman Teague - MOMA
Brought to you by Norman Teague, the Artist, furniture designer, and woodworker, comes Designer’s Choice: Norman Teague Jam Session at MoMA. Teague’s beautiful work merges the past, present, and future, incorporating AI-generated re-imaginings of furniture that remind us of our history, yet explore what could be. Set within MoMA—a cornerstone of modern art and a gatekeeper of those who came before—this exhibit prompts the audience to reflect on what is considered "Art," who defines it, and who has been excluded from that conversation, and why.
Black artists have long been excluded from much of the art that populates major institutions today, yet the influence of Black style permeates everything that is considered great. Some of these contributions are widely recognized, while others remain hidden. Institutions like MoMA have historically played a role in determining what is considered art and who gets included in those definitions.
As we move forward, similar conversations arise around AI—can it be considered art, and who gets to decide? Who will be the gatekeepers, and what deserves recognition and reverence; regardless of the person behind the brush or the medium used in the work? A great conversation worth having and an exhibition worth seeing.
MoMA | October - May 2025 | Floor 1, 1 South
The shape of things a Cyclorama | Carrie Mae Weems
This powerful piece, a 40-minute video in seven parts, serves as a reminder that the more things change, the more they stay the same. As we continue to live in a society that has yet to fully confront its foundational wounds of racism and discrimination, these cycles persist. At a pivotal moment when democracy itself is at stake, this work forces us to reflect on the lessons we have yet to learn and the consequences that await if we fail to correct our course. It's a gut punch—exactly what’s needed to spark change.
I’ve always been a fan of Ms. Weems. She’s truly an icon and a beacon of light for our community. The way she explores the Black experience and the disparities in this world is both beautiful and profound. I’m so grateful I was able to meet her, speak to her about her work and express my deepest gratitude.
Gladstone Gallery | September 14 – November 9, 2024 | 530 West 21st Street
