Lévy Gorvy Dayan Exhibition Revisits Influential 1980s NYC Art Scene

The Lévy Gorvy Dayan gallery's exhibition "Downtown/Uptown: New York in the Eighties" revisits the vibrant and chaotic art scene of 1980s Manhattan, showcasing works by iconic artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and reflecting themes of cultural collision, ambition, and capitalism characteristic of the era. This exhibit, organized with gallerist Mary Boone, highlights the dynamic tension between downtown grit and uptown sophistication and the impact of artists who thrived amid media saturation and consumerism. In contrast, a separate visual collection captures the spirit of 1967, a year marked by social upheaval, cultural change, and significant moments in civil rights, music, and politics, presenting a multifaceted view of that transformative time. Additionally, reflections on 1970s fatherhood reveal a nostalgic portrait of family life, emphasizing traditional roles, chores as life lessons, and the symbolic importance of the paternal presence through routines like grilling and DIY repairs. Lastly, author Jane Hamilton's new book, "The Phoebe Variations," draws deeply on her memories of growing up in 1970s Oak Park, Illinois, evoking a childhood defined by natural surroundings, community freedom, and a rich literary environment, further illustrating how past decades continue to influence contemporary culture and art.