NYC 2

The saga must continue in NYC! After visiting great galleries in Chelsea, the High Line, and the Apollo Theater, could my recent trip get any better? Yes, indeed. The city had much to offer and the people were very welcoming. Now it was time for business and more investigation.

The main reason behind the excursion was my induction ceremony into the National Association of Women Artists. According to their website, NAWA “…is the first professional women’s fine art organization in the United States…” and recently celebrated its 125^th anniversary. Notable members include Louise Nevelson, Malvina Hoffman, Minna Citron, Cleo Hartwig, Alice Neel, and many others. The event was held at the Rubin Museum of Art which included an induction of current officers, a presentation of new member’s work, and an awards ceremony.

After the induction, took the subway to Brooklyn to visit the Sculptor’s Guild gallery. On the trip, I received an email that my application was accepted to become a member. As a result, wanted to see the space in person and make an introduction. The 111 Front Street Galleries complex in which the Sculptors Guild is located features many impressive artworks. At the Brooklyn Arts Council, artist Traci Talasco recreated an interior made out of sandpaper. My favorite gallery by far was Minus Space and every artist represented was fantastic. Very impressed!

Take a look:

Traci Talasco at the Brooklyn Arts Council.

Best gallery painting by Loren Munk titled Some California Artists & Venues at Minus Space. — Best gallery painting by Loren Munk titled *Some California Artists & Venues* at Minus Space.

Stopped at Grimaldi’s for pizza under the Brooklyn Bridge. Afterwards, my husband and I decided to walk back over the bridge back to NYC. It was different perspective of the city in this post 9/11 world. It was packed with tourists and locals in transit. According to the Department of Transportation: “More than 120,000 vehicles, 4,000 pedestrians and 3,100 bicyclists cross the Brooklyn Bridge every day.”

Once arriving in NYC, our next stop was the National Association of Women Artists New Members’ Exhibition at 80 Fifth Avenue. On display was one piece from each new member. During the opening, every artist was asked to talk about her practice. Meeting women who dedicated their lives to promoting creativity was truly inspiring.

Artista Baltronis, Rake #1, garden rake with Swarovski crystals. — Artista Baltronis, *Rake #1*, garden rake with Swarovski crystals.

With time to spare, we visited the San Francisco based sports bar called Finnerty’s in the East Village for a $4 beer afterwards. It felt like we were at home with Giants baseball fans. However, the last destination of the day was the New Museum featuring the works of Chris Ofili. The exhibition included paintings, drawings, and sculptures spanning many decades of the artist’s life.