“If you carry a story that deserves bright walls, answer this call.” — Eleanor Rivers
RIVAA Gallery has thrown open its doors—virtually, for now—to LGBTQ+ artists across New York City, celebrating RIVAA pride. The upcoming exhibition “Pride & Prejudice” will light up 527 Main St. in early June, and there’s still time to grab a spot on the wall. Below is a nuts‑and‑bolts guide in true Daily utility style.
Deadlines & key dates
| Task | Date |
|---|---|
| Online submission form due | Wed · May 15 @ 11:59 PM (What’s On – RIVAA Gallery) |
| Acceptance emails sent | Rolling, starting May 18 |
| Art drop‑off at gallery | Thu · May 29 · 11 AM – 6 PM |
| Opening reception | Sun · June 1 · 5 – 8 PM |
| Exhibit runs | June 1 – 12 |
Who can submit
- LGBTQ+ artists who live or work in NYC can express their creativity and show RIVAA pride with their submissions.
- Any medium—painting, sculpture, photo, video, mixed media
- Up to five pieces per artist, each delivered ready to hang or display
Costs & logistics
- Free to apply
- $25 flat participation fee only if accepted (pay on drop‑off)
- Gallery is wheelchair‑accessible; closest subway elevator is at the Tram plaza
How to apply in three quick steps
- Photograph each work (clear, well‑lit images).
- Visit RIVAA’s “What’s On” page and click the Submission Form.
- In 150 words or less, describe how your piece explores Pride, prejudice—or the tension between them—and contribute to the theme of RIVAA pride.
Why show at RIVAA Pride?
Eleanor says it best: the gallery’s skylight “spills river‑blue onto whatever you bring.” Being part of RIVAA pride means:
- Prime Main Street visibility during Pride Month
- A built‑in island audience plus press coverage from local outlets (yes, including us)
- Network opportunities with curators who scout talent for citywide shows
Quick RIVVA pride pro tips
- Size smart. Think 36″×36″ or smaller unless your framing is spectacular.
- Label clearly. Tape your name, phone, and e‑mail to the back of each piece.
- Plan pickup. Works must be collected on June 12—no storage after that.
Ready to add your voice to RIVAA pride? Hit the form before the May 15 midnight cutoff. Then drop us a line—The Daily will be on scene opening night for a photo‑spread of every local artist who makes the cut.
For questions, e‑mail info@rivaagallery.org or call 212‑308‑6630.
“I Can Ask”
Chair Fay Christian opened the Operations Advisory Committee on February 12th, reading out member names from a prepared sheet that omitted Melissa Wade. It didn’t feel intentional, but it struck me as odd precisely because it came from something prepared. Lydia Tang gently corrected her, noting that Wade was, in fact, a member of the committee. Wade met the moment with grace, or perhaps she simply wasn’t bothered by it.
