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Pop-Up Art Show in NYC

new york city pop up art show with artist rachael grad

Exploring Creativity on Chrystie Street: a New Pop-Up Art Show in NYC

I’m beyond excited to share something incredible with you all—my two paintings will be part of the Chrystie Street Pop-Up Art Show in New York City, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this vibrant, creative experience. If you’ve ever wanted to see my work in person, this is the perfect chance! The art exhibition will take place in the heart of NYC’s Lower East Side, one of the most eclectic and artsy neighbourhoods in the city.

But it’s not just about my paintings—this show is packed with amazing works from a fantastic collection of artists, including pieces curated by Boom Contemporary Gallery. For me, it’s a dream come true to have my work shown alongside such talented emerging artists. The energy and talent that Boom brings to the table is exactly what makes this pop-up show so exciting. They’ve brought together some incredible pieces that combine traditional painting and drawing with modern innovation, and I’m beyond proud to have my work featured in this curated space.

The Power of Painting and Drawing

There’s something so special about the feeling of a brush in your hand, the texture of the canvas, or the sharpness of a pencil against paper. That’s what the Chrystie Street Pop-Up Art Show is all about—getting back to the raw, authentic power of painting and drawing. In a world full of digital art and installations, this show reminds us of the power that traditional media still holds. The works in this show range from hyper-realism to abstract pieces, from delicate watercolors to bold acrylics, all exploring the rich world of traditional art.

As an artist, it’s been incredibly fulfilling to take my own passion for painting and drawing and see it come to life in this exciting space. I’ll have two of my paintings featured at the show—pieces I’ve poured my heart into, capturing moments of raw emotion and urban beauty. I can’t wait for you to see them in person.

A Blend of Old and New Art

What really makes this show stand out is how it blends the old with the new. Traditional mediums like oil painting, charcoal, and graphite are at the heart of it all, but many of the artists, myself included, are taking these classic forms and mixing them with fresh, modern techniques. Whether it’s a piece that incorporates mixed media—using fabrics or found objects—or a digital drawing that’s enhanced with traditional pencil work, there’s a bold push towards experimentation.

The Lower East Side is known for its gritty, street-art influence, and that vibe is definitely present in the work here. Expect to see pieces that reflect the urban pulse of the city, mixing street culture with high art, blending the familiar with the unknown. It’s all about pushing boundaries while honouring the traditions that came before us.

What’s on Display in the Art Show?

In addition to my two paintings, which I’m beyond excited about, there are so many incredible pieces you won’t want to miss. The work curated by Boom Contemporary is truly spectacular, and I'm honored to be part of such a dynamic collection. Expect to see a diverse range of styles and voices—each piece reflecting the artist's unique take on painting and drawing. Here's a taste of what you can expect:

  • Portraits and Figures: Deeply personal and emotionally charged, many of the works in this show capture the essence of the human experience. Through vibrant colors and bold, expressive strokes, these portraits reveal layers of character, emotion, and identity. Artists represented by Boom Contemporary have taken traditional portraiture to new heights, creating pieces that feel both timeless and contemporary. Some works are raw and intimate, while others are surreal and conceptual, challenging the way we view ourselves and others.

  • Abstract Works: For lovers of abstraction, this show has it all. Several artists from Boom Contemporary have pushed the boundaries of abstraction, creating pieces that don’t just depict but evoke. Expect to see energetic brushstrokes, unconventional color palettes, and fluid forms that play with your perception of space and emotion. These works will make you pause, question, and feel something visceral as they pull you into their worlds. Some of these abstract pieces carry an urban edge, reflecting the ever-changing rhythms and textures of city life.

  • Landscape and Urban Scenes: Many of the works, including mine, draw inspiration from the world around us, especially from the city itself. New York, with all its grit and glory, is the perfect muse for this collection. From sweeping, large-scale cityscapes to quiet, reflective moments found in nature, these pieces explore the beauty and complexity of our environments. Boom’s curated pieces also include urban scenes that feel alive, dynamic, and full of energy, drawing on the influence of street art and contemporary culture.

These are just a few of the themes you’ll encounter, but trust me, there’s so much more to explore. The show is a rich tapestry of traditional techniques meeting modern innovation, and the work is guaranteed to challenge, inspire, and provoke.

Why This Art Show Matters

As an artist, this show is a reminder of why I started creating in the first place—the love for painting and drawing and how those forms still have such a powerful, lasting impact. There’s something so visceral about it—holding the brush, drawing the line, feeling that connection to the piece. It’s personal, it’s raw, and it’s real.

Working with Boom Contemporary has been a fantastic experience, and I truly believe that their curation will highlight some of the best emerging voices in painting and drawing today. They’ve created a space where traditional techniques meet modern experimentation, and I’m honored to be a part of that dialogue.

Getting to Know the Artists

One of the best parts of this show is the opportunity to meet the artists. Many of us will be there during the event, and I’d love for you to stop by, check out the work, and talk about our processes. If you’re curious about how a piece was made, what inspired it, or just want to chat about art, I’ll be there to connect with everyone.

Mark Your Calendar

I can’t wait to see you there on September 26th, from 6-8 PM for the Opening Night! Whether you’re a long-time art lover or just someone who’s curious about new art, this pop-up show is going to be an unforgettable experience. And of course, I’m super excited to have my two paintings featured in such an incredible space alongside other amazing artists.

Dates: September 26th, 6-8 PM (Opening Night) and Saturday September 27th from 1 pm to 5 pm. 
Location: 195 Chrystie Street, #603 F, Lower East Side, New York City, New York 
RSVP: Just show up! No need to RSVP

This is more than just an art show—it’s a celebration of painting and drawing, of taking something that’s centuries old and making it your own. I hope to see you there, and I’d love to hear what you think of the show and the work!

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