LIC creative space set to open first online exhibition

An Alterworks artist has been making masks for medical personnel and his fellow artists. Photo via Alterworks/Instagram

By Rachel Vick

Long Island City-based gallery Alterworks isn’t letting social distancing separate Queens residents from works of art. The creative space will open an online exhibition to bring art to the community, instead of the other way around.

Alphabet Soup, the first online exhibition, goes live on April 9 with a virtual opening on Zoom.

“Our current social climate is marred by anxiety and isolation,” Alterworks wrote on Instagram.  “Forced closures and restrictions have us scavenging for food, supplies, and resources. How long before arat supplies start to run thin? Grab what you can! Make whatever you can!”

The exhibit, organized by curator Tim Kelly, showcases multimedia and collage works from 20 artists. It explores the idea of art created under restriction, in an environment where access to traditional art supplies might be limited.

Alphabet Soup was put together in two weeks, after the call for submissions went out March 23, and will be shared on the AlterWorks website.