October Art Exhibitions: New York and Beyond

This October brings an exciting range of art exhibitions both in New York and beyond. From a group showcase in Kampala to solo exhibitions in New York, these shows offer fresh perspectives on culture, identity, and socio-economic change. Whether you’re drawn to surrealism, documentary photography, or multi-disciplinary works, there’s something here for every art lover. Keep reading to discover this week’s must-see October art exhibitions.

SURFACES 3 at Afriart Gallery (Kampala)

October art exhibitions: man painting, Afriart group exhibition
SURFACES 3 | Courtesy Image

Running from May 10 to September 11, 2024, SURFACES 3 is a group exhibition that features 15 emerging artists who have completed a conceptual development master class. Under the mentorship of Ugandan artist Henry Mzili Mujunga, these artists explore themes like identity and cultural expression. The exhibition showcases a rich collaborative narrative that highlights the diverse perspectives of artists such as Andema Jean, Esra Rahma, and Rhona Nantege. This showcase is a testament to the power of artistic community and mentorship. For more information, visit Afriart Gallery’s website.

Valerio Spada’s In Italia at Benrubi Gallery (New York)

Valerio Spada, Liliana I, Santa Maria del Fiore, 2019 | Courtesy Image

Opening on October 10, 2024, at Benrubi Gallery, In Italia presents the latest works by Valerio Spada. Known for his socio-documentary photography, Spada focuses on the transformation of Florence’s Piazza Santa Maria del Fiore. His images contrast the bustling tourist crowds with serene, quiet moments at dawn. His work offers an insightful look at overtourism and depopulation, inspired by Nobel laureate Giorgio Parisi’s studies on social dynamics. This exhibition runs through December 21, 2024. For more information, visit Benrubi Gallery’s website.

Simon Benjamin’s Studio Visit on ONAir! at Swivel Gallery (New York)

October art exhibitions: Simon Benjamin at Swivel Gallery
Simon Benjamin, Coin Diver I, 2024, Silkscreen On Canvas With Acrylic Paint, 72 H x 60 W in. / 183 H x 152 W cm. | Courtesy Image

The fourth episode of ONAir!, a series by Swivel Gallery, features a studio visit with Jamaican artist Simon Benjamin. Filmed in his Sharpe-Walentas studio in DUMBO, Brooklyn, Benjamin reflects on his creative process and current project for NADA House on Governors Island. His work explores colonial legacies and coastal histories through sculpture and video installations. The interview offers a deep dive into how his studio space has allowed him to experiment with larger scales and more diverse materials. To watch the full interview, visit Swivel Gallery’s website.

Gerome Kamrowski: An American Surrealist at Lincoln Glenn Gallery (New York)

Gerome Kamrowski | Evidence of the Obscure, 1946 | Shadowbox ink and impressionage | 11 x 14 inches | Courtesy Photo

Lincoln Glenn Gallery presents Gerome Kamrowski: An American Surrealist, running through November 16, 2024. This exhibition is a retrospective on the American surrealist painter. Kamrowski’s works from the 1940s, including Wanderlust (1940) and Limitations of Indebtedness to Nature (1942), showcase his unique blend of biomorphic forms and abstract expressionism. His art explores the cosmic dimensions of human consciousness. This exhibition offers a rare chance to experience Kamrowski’s work up close. It also allows viewers to appreciate his lasting contributions to American surrealism. For more information, visit Lincoln Glenn Gallery’s website.

Dive Into the Art World This October

Whether you’re in New York or beyond, this October offers a variety of must-see art exhibitions that explore personal narratives, history, and socio-economic transformation. From modern surrealism to documentary photography, these shows provide something for every art lover.

Lisa Morales

Lisa Morales is the owner of Allegory PR Services and founder of Live in Italy Magazine. She serves as the Editor-in-Chief for Live in Italy Magazine. She is a Contributing Editor for Widewalls, a Florida Contributor to the Food Wine Travel magazine, Culture Trip, and La Ceramica in Italia e nel Mondo. Lisa’s “beats” are the visual arts, food and wine and Art Basel Miami and other South Florida art fairs and art exhibitions. Seeking solace from her PR and marketing life, Lisa cooks and blogs about her food and wine pairing adventures.