presents
The Frame
Community Newsletter
Looking at Arts & Culture Events in LIC
On the 7 LIC
Live Jazz
Every Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday at 8pm
On the 7 is LIC's favorite gastropub for live jazz, wine, cocktails, and food conveniently located right outside the 7 train on Vernon Blvd and Jackson Ave.
Featuring live music every Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday night from 8-11pm with no cover!
5-50 Gallery
fèy palmis
On View August 29 - October 11
5-50 Gallery is pleased to present fèy palmis., a two-person exhibition featuring the work of Eilen Itzel do Espírito Santo and Emily Manwaring.
The exhibition’s title emerges from a spiritual and material affinity shared between the two artists: the figure of Ayizan, a revered Vodou lwa and Yoruba Orisha associated with sacred knowledge, initiation, ancestral wisdom, and feminine spiritual authority.
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Studio 41
Fall Colours
September 12 - December 20
Studio 41 launches its 5th year as an artist collective on September 12, 3-5 pm with 3 new exhibitions.
In the main gallery, "Fall Colours" reflects the diverse range of art by Studio 41’s artists: abstract and representational painting, collage, mixed media, prints and ceramics.
Guest Artist Maguy Berry has new prints installed in the Back Wall Gallery.
And in the Members Project Space is "Blorbo", an installation by Studio 41 artist, Sheila Ross.
Studio 41 is open every weekend from 1-5 pm or by appointment.
Brickhouse Ceramic Art Center
Fall Pottery Classes at BrickHouse
September 14 - December 20
Register now for Fall pottery classes at BrickHouse!
Session 1 begins on September 14 and lasts for six weeks.
BrickHouse Ceramic Art Center is a sanctuary in NYC where adults can relax and create art. BrickHouse offers year-round pottery classes to adults at the beginner, intermediate and advanced level.
AlterWork Studios
Infinite Games
On View: September 19-29
AlterWork Studios presents an exhibition by Jeff Repko.
The opening reception is on Saturday September 19, 6pm.
Infinite Games is composed of abstract mechanisms that act as surrogates for the working body. Built from painted wood, fabric, and 3D-printed components, they borrow the visual language of industry while taking on a toylike aesthetic. Assembled through both digital fabrication and hand processes such as woodworking, sewing, and crochet, they hold a sense of potential, positioned between stillness and motion.
Resting between work and play, their purpose remains ambiguous. Like a game played only to keep playing, they exist simply to keep going.
Historic Districts Council (HDC)
Design, Drama, Murals and Music
Sunnyside Arts and Culture Walking Tour
September 20, 1pm
Architects and city planners have long celebrated Sunnyside’s Art Deco buildings and the historic Sunnyside Gardens district, but everyone can appreciate the many sights and stories of the neighborhood’s culture and creativity.
This tour traces some highlights, from Thalia Spanish Theater (the first and only bilingual Hispanic theater in Queens), the Bliss Theater (a rare surviving example of an Egyptian Revival movie palace), and iconic Sunnyside Arch, to murals and memorials commemorating pioneers of folk, jazz, and punk rock. Stops along the way include treasures of progressive urban housing design, as well as galleries and storefronts showcasing local artists.
Materials for the Arts
Gallery Exhibition by sTo Len
September 24, 2026 - January 13, 2027
Join us for the solo exhibition opening of MFTA Artist-in-Residence sTo Len, an interdisciplinary artist whose work has centered on ecological place-based collaborations with diverse landscapes and co-creations with communities and municipal agencies.
The cross-disciplinary nature of sTo Len’s practice spans printmaking, video, sound, performance, installation, drawing, and social practice work, threaded together by a site-responsive process of making.
SpeakEasier Language Exchange
SpeakEasier was created in 2024 by Daniela Cantillo to celebrate and foster multilingualism in New York City. In early 2025, SpeakEasier partnered with Culture Lab LIC to bring to life the monthly SpeakEasier Language Exchange, where intermediate-to-advanced target speakers of Arabic, French, Farsi, and Spanish come together to practice their speaking skills through engaging conversation.
Follow SpeakEasier on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and for language practice tips and insights right to your inbox, sign up for the newsletter here!
October 24, 2026
November 28, 2026
Culture Lab LIC
The Blue Bus Project
The Waters Weaver Challenge
September 30, 6pm
How much plastic passes through your hands in one week? The Blue Bus Project invites the Long Island City community to collect clean, single-use plastics and help transform them into The Waters Weaver, a 10-foot community-built public sculpture exploring plastic pollution and our shared waterways.
Collected plastics will become part of the sculpture through community weaving workshops, giving everyone a chance to participate in creating the artwork.
SAVE IT • CLEAN IT • DROP IT OFF • WEAVE IT
Collect through September 30. Drop off at The Blue Bus Project: 46-16 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, New York, 11101
Contact: info@thebluebusproject.org
Culture Lab LIC
Sunset Jazz
LIC's favorite local jazz night at Culture Lab LIC!
Enjoy live jazz performances, cool libations, and great vibes in an intimate art gallery space every Friday at 8 PM.
Always free and open to the community.
Seating is limited, so get here early!
RSVP: events.humanitix.com/sunset-jazz-at-cllic
Culture Lab LIC
LIVE in
THE LOT
2026
Live in The Lot is our free summer concert series, featuring live music every weekend!
Click Here for more info!
Schedule subject to change. Be sure to check Culture Lab LIC on Instagram and Facebook for latest schedule and lineup updates.
Culture Lab LIC
LIC-A Art Space at The Factory LIC
The Pietra Prize
Opening Reception
Thursday, October 1, 5–8pm
On View: October 1–November 5
Gallery Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 11am–6pm
Mark your calendars!
The Pietra Prize is coming to LIC-A!
It’s All About Art Collaborations. 2 Artists. 1 Artwork. YOU Vote.
Join us for the opening reception of the Pietra Prize, curated by Jorge Colvin and Cristián Pietrapiana. Discover the power of artistic collaboration and cast your vote!
We look forward to seeing you there!
LIC-A Art Space at The Factory LIC
30-30 47th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
LaGuardia Performing Arts Center
A Night with Limon
October 2, 6:30pm
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, LPAC welcomes the legendary Limón Dance Company for an intimate evening of live dance exploring the enduring legacy of José Limón and the continued evolution of American modern dance.
The evening includes an excerpt from Join, Barton’s 2025 collaboration with Akinmusire. Inspired by José Limón’s vivid written description of a lost work by pioneering choreographer Doris Humphrey.
The program also features a suite from José Limón’s Mazurkas, created in 1958 following Limón’s visit to Poland after World War II.
LaGuardia Performing Arts Center
Afro-Andean FUnk
October 3, 7pm
Afro-Andean Funk is a New York–based, two-time Latin Grammy–nominated six-piece fusing Latin, funk, and electronica into a high-energy, groove-centered live show, sung in Spanish, English, and Quechua. The ensemble is led by Peruvian vocalist Araceli Poma and bassist-producer Matt Geraghty.
Rooted in Afro-Peruvian rhythm and Andean melody — two traditions born of oceans crossed and mountains climbed, that recognized each other in the encounter — the band performs original music in Spanish, English, and Quechua, pushed through cajón, electric bass, drums, keyboards, and horns into a sound that is at once ancient and alive.
Kamayan
A Filipino Feast + Live Music
Saturday, October 3, 7-9pm
Join Little Chef Little Cafe at Culture Lab LIC for a special evening of Filipino food, music, and community centered around the tradition of kamayan.
Kamayan, meaning “by hand” in Tagalog, is a communal style of dining where a generous feast is laid across banana leaves and enjoyed without utensils. It is meant to be shared—bringing people together around the table to eat, connect, and celebrate.
For this gathering, the feast will be curated by Chef Diana Manalang, the Little Chef Little Cafe team, and a lineup of talented contributing chefs, each bringing their own voice and perspective to the table. Participating chefs and menu details will be announced as they are confirmed.
Guests will be welcomed with an introduction to kamayan and the dishes being served before gathering around the table to enjoy the feast together. The evening will also feature a live cultural music and dance experience curated by Queensboro Dance Festival and Karesia Batan, bringing another layer of storytelling, tradition, and celebration to the night. Together, the food and music create an interactive cultural experience rooted in sharing, hospitality, and connection.
Your Ticket Includes:
- A communal Filipino kamayan feast
- Dishes curated by Chef Diana Manalang, the Little Chef Little Cafe team, and contributing guest chefs
- An introduction to kamayan and the dishes being served
- Two drink tickets (additional drinks will be available for purchase)
- A live cultural music and dance experience curated by Queensboro Dance Festival and Karesia Batan
- Presented by Little Chef Little Cafe at Culture Lab LIC.
- Participating chefs, menu details, and dietary/allergen information will be announced as they are confirmed.
Buy Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/kamayan
Culture Lab LIC
LIVE in
THE LOT
2026
Live in The Lot is our free summer concert series, featuring live music every weekend!
Due to expected high temperatures and rain, outdoor events may be held indoors this weekend.
RSVP: https://events.humanitix.com/live-in-the-lot
Click Here for more info!
Schedule subject to change. Be sure to check Culture Lab LIC on Instagram and Facebook for latest schedule and lineup updates.
For six years, Culture Lab LIC has brought people together through free music, art, theater, festivals, and community events. This summer, thousands of people will attend programs here at Culture Lab. As the cost of everything continues to rise, we believe access to arts and culture shouldn't.
As we continue another season of free programming, we're asking one simple question: Can we raise $7,000 in 31 days to help Keep Summer Free?
DONATE NOW TO KEEP THE SUMMER FREE
Or, if you'd rather wear your support, our new summer merch is available now as a part of Keep The Summer Free!
Culture Lab LIC
On the 7 LIC
Trivia Nights @ On the 7
Every Tuesday Night, stop into On the 7 for Trivia led by NYC Trivia League!
Win prizes, have a drink, some food, and a great time with friends!
Frozen In Time
The Art of Richard Bello
Exhibition on view April 2 - May 31, 2026 during normal gallery hours: Thursday & Friday, 5-9pm, and Saturday & Sunday, 2-9pm
Free Admission. Donations welcome.
Thanks to our sponsors: Plaxall Properties, Steve Madden, TF Cornerstone, Douglaston Development, Paragon LIC, Schuman Properties, SPR Law, Howard Gilman Foundation, New York State Council on the Arts
Culture Lab LIC
Pawp-Up in The Lot
"Pawp-Ups" are back at Culture Lab LIC!
Previously known as our "Pup-Ups", we are making sure to include our feline friends!
Join us 1-4pm on the first Sunday of every month from May-Oct as local rescues pawp-up with dogs and cats in need of fosters and forever homes!
Already have a furry bestie? Bring them along and meet other pet owners in the community, browse pet apparel, services, food & treats among local vendors! And since our gallery is dog friendly, you can browse the exhibits - make sure to stop at our front desk for complimentary treats!
Vendor slots are filling up but we're still looking for folks who think the animal community will benefit/appreciate your goods and services!
-Food & Treats
-Services (walker, daycare, groomers)
-Pet Apparel/Gear
-Pet portraits
We're especially grateful to @bondvet for their sponsorship this year, ensuring animals get adopted and local businesses thrive!
Upcoming Dates
October 4
Culture Lab LIC
sweet prince
Friday, October 9, 7:30pm
The murderous uncle? The beguiled queen? A hired friend? Who will you choose?
sweet prince is an interactive, one-woman Hamlet that invites you to step in as the missing characters. Ready to be? This production uses a pared-down version of Shakespeare's script to investigate depression, what it means to be “mad,” and grief. At the same time, it joyfully invites members of the audience to participate as the missing characters.
In Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet recruits actors to help him prove his uncle is guilty. Can this Hamlet recruit members of the audience to help her successfully tell this version of the story? Will they act when called upon? Perhaps they’ll even experience a transformation, a spark of new courage, a curiosity to be. This production and Junkyard Shakespeare’s tour are supported by the generous Culture Lab LIC, our co-producer!
Culture Lab LIC
Materials for the Arts
Ballroom Event with Kiki Arts Collective
Thursday, October 15, 6:30pm
Join us for a ballroom event with Kiki Arts Collective.
The Kiki Arts Collaborative was established in 2025, emerging from an innovative series of events and programs initiated by co-founder and Executive Director Colby “Reign” King, with Jaileen Pierre-Louis.
The Kiki Arts Collaborative exists to leverage the transformative power of Kiki ballroom culture, arts, and knowledge to radically expand access, visibility, and opportunity for LGBTQ+ young adults and emerging artists of color.
The Trinity Games
Saturday, October 17
Doors open at 9am
The Trinity Games is a partner hybrid fitness race open to the entire New York City community. Two person teams race through a series of functional fitness stations combined with running, splitting the work however they choose. The event is designed to be genuinely challenging for competitive athletes and completely achievable for people who have never raced before. Last year every single team that started crossed the finish line.
This year the event expands to 150 teams across three divisions: Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, with age division prizes across all categories. Race day also includes live music, an athlete village, a vendor expo, food and drinks, and a post race party at Culture Lab LIC.
The Trinity Games gives back to the neighborhood it calls home. All proceeds from registrations go directly to Hunters Point Parks Conservancy and Culture Lab LIC. Last year the event raised $12,000 for both organizations. This year that number will be higher.
Hunters Point Parks Conservancy maintains and enhances the waterfront parks and green spaces of Long Island City, running over 200 free community programs annually at Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter's Point South Park.
The Trinity NYC is a coach-led strength and fitness gym in Long Island City dedicated to meeting people where they are and moving them forward safely, confidently, and intentionally.
Registration is open now at https://events.elitefeats.com/26trinitygames
Tickets are $229 per team.
For media inquiries contact info@thetrinitynyc.com.
Culture Lab LIC
5 Boro Foto Fest
Sunday, October 25, 11am
Collaboration between The Phoblographer, Corse Design, Mallon Productions, and Culture Lab LIC
The First Ever 5 Boro Foto Fest Brings Local Photographers and Authenticity; Only Original Prints and Guaranteed No Generative AI.
5 Boro Foto Fest aims to do for the arts something that hasn’t been done before: giving local photographers their own artist’s alley-type festival for them to bring authenticity to the masses.
Joining the photographers will be galleries, photo collectives, and indie storefronts will gather to exhibit printed collectibles for sale. These include fine art prints, zines, books, mixed media, and various other ways that photographs are brought to life.
“I’ve been looking around at the world of photography and saw the threat that generative AI poses to replace us,” said Chris Gampat, the founder and Editor in Chief of the Phoblographer as well as the founder of the 5 Boro Foto Fest. “This event is designed to remind people that photographers are capable of making your jaw drop with moments that you don’t even notice every day.”
The 5 Boro Foto Fest, which has free entry, will bring together both new and famous photographers along with galleries, inclusive collectives, and even some of your favorite bookstores that sell art books. Expect to take home prints to hang on your wall, zines to keep by your desk, books to adorn on your coffee table, and other artistic creations using photographs.
Culture Lab LIC
Materials for the Arts
Sketch Night
October 27, 6:30pm
Drop by the warehouse for the fall edition of our highly-anticipated sketch night series. Our quarterly sketch night series hosted by A.E. Kieren and curated by Machine Dazzle returns to the warehouse.
You know the rules! You bring the vibes, we provide the materials and let the rest be dictated by your artistic desires!
This event will include nude posing.