Now that the lazy days of summer have faded, it’s time to recharge your intellectual batteries. Whether you’re a card-carrying undergrad or you’re just looking for something clever to say at your next cocktail party, there’s no better way to get schooled in NYC than to hit the museums and get a dose of cultural stimulation. We’ve put together a handy list of the best fall exhibits, as well as where to stimulate your taste buds afterwards.
Sip... The Creek and the Cave 10-93 Jackson Ave. (@ 49th Ave.)
Long Island City 718.706.
Religion is a touchy subject, but when it comes to "hoodoo," the worship of other-worldly rituals, myths, and spirituality, "Every man is an artist and every artist is a priest," said the late 1960s poet Ishmael Reed. Afterwards, discuss the outsider art at The Creek and the Cave, a Long Island City institution offering the avant garde combination of fusbol and indie film screenings. Mexican food fills bellies during lunch and dinner, so discuss the godliness of light bulbs over some worship-worthy enchiladas and salsa.
Sip... Iggy's Legendary Karaoke Bar 1452 2nd Ave. (75th & 76th Sts.)
Take a trip through cities unknown or explore the fringes of sexuality with Catherine Opie's stunning photos. Known for photographing portraits of the transgender population, Opie moved into urban landscapes later on in her career. Afterwards, show off your own artistic side at Iggy's. Belt out a provocative tune or just observe for some more urban cultural reflection.
Sip... Tulcingo Del Valle 665 10th Ave. (@ 47th St.)
Hell’s Kitchen 212.262.5510
Take it to the streets and check out images of street art from the 1950s ‘til now. Yeah, it's a shlep up to the Bronx, but what better environment to explore the nitty gritty of the urban landscape? Afterwards, take part in genuine street life yourself and make a pit-stop at Tulcingo Del Valle for some authentic, cheap-o Mexican and drinks.
Sip... J.G. Melon 1291 3rd Ave. (@ 74th St.)
Upper East Side 212.744.0585
Know your rights and get political with William Eggleston's photos from 1961-2008.
Election season is a perfect time to check out this retrospective, and afterwards, debate the issues at no-frills preppy bar J.G. Melon.
Sip... Flute 205 W. 54th St. (Broadway & 7th Ave.)
Midtown 212.265.5169
A crooked tiara and a screaming mouth, a sexy actress with a come hither stare, a blood-soaked dagger—movie posters today say nothing for art and not much more for plot. Revisit a time when the posters were hand-painted and the films were silent. Batiste Madalena's one-of-a-kind works from 1924–1928 are on display until April at MOMA. Go on a Friday when admission is free and keep the '20s theme going with a visit to Prohibition-era bar Flute.
Sip... Raggs of Harlem 1697 Park Ave. (@ 119th St.)
Harlem 212.534.9681
Yet another one of the hidden surprises Harlem has to offer, 31-year-old Kehinde Wiley's work features young, modern, African-American men painted in a style more befitting of an 1800s portrait. Loosen up after this worldly show at dive bar Raggs of Harlem. Discuss art and culture, and keep it real with $1 Miller Genuine Drafts.
