Xaviera Simmons’ Fulton & Elliott-Chelsea Shows Open

This past October Xaviera Simmons set up an outdoor studio in the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses where she met and took portraits of the residents of these communities. Last night was the opening of two concurrent exhibitions for Xaviera Simmons’ “When You’re Looking At Me, You’re Looking At Country“. The event also marks the first time in Hudson Guild’s history that they are holding related shows simultaneously in both of their community centers.

Over 90 framed portraits are arranged randomly in each gallery to promote the relationship between two housing areas that are separated by six blocks between 9^th and 10^th avenues in Chelsea and whom like siblings have a history of both cooperation and animosity. One of the goals of this project was to bring all of the residents together to promote the diversity and heritage represented amongst the neighborhoods.

Many participants attended, and were happy to share their experiences with one another and invite friends to see their portrait. When the shows conclude, participants will be invited to take their respective work of art home with them. We thank everyone involved for their support and participation. We encourage those who have not done so to visit the Hudson Guild galleries and get know the neighborhood and its residents!