While it may seem as though the city empties out for the unofficial last weekend of summer, downtown still has plenty to do this Labor Day Weekend. For those looking to satisfy a cultural craving, the biannual Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit will return to Greenwich Village September 5, 6 and 7 and again the following weekend on the 12 and 13.
The free outdoor gallery will be open from noon until 6 p.m. on the sidewalks of University Place from East 13th Street south to Waverly Place.
In its 85th year, the WSOAE will feature its usual array of fine art, photography, crafts and sculpture, courtesy of artists selected from around the city, nation and the world. Aside from the exposure and potential sales, exhibiting artists also have the chance to win cash prizes, which are funded by donations from individuals, organizations and corporations.
The long-standing tradition began during the Great Depression when artists, Jackson Pollack and Willem DeKooning decided to set up shop in the iconic park simply to help make ends meet. In the years since, the gallery has evolved into a city staple during Memorial and Labor Day weekends, luring crowds of local and traveling art-lovers.
For more details on how to enjoy the last few days of summer weather and immerse yourself in some colorful culture, visit the official website.
–by Ricki Harris
*All photos courtesy of Rebecca MB. Pearson under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License
