Queens, one of New York’s largest and most diverse boroughs, is also a vibrant hub for art and culture. However, its richness has often been fragmented due to limited public transportation in some areas, creating a disconnect among artists and communities. The arts team at Flushing Town Hall tackled this issue with a year-long research project, resulting in a groundbreaking digital map platform that brings together art and cultural venues across Queens.
This platform is more than just a map; it’s the voice of an art community striving to connect. From SculptureCenter to the Rockaway Artists Alliance, the map pinpoints dozens of studios, galleries, museums, and cultural spaces, aiming to break down geographic barriers for artists. One of the map’s designers shared their own experience of navigating multiple bus transfers from their home in southwest Queens to reach the borough’s center, underscoring the significance of this initiative.
The map also fills a void left by the Queens Council on the Arts’ year-long hiatus in 2022 due to restructuring. A project manager noted that during that time, there was a significant lack of a unified voice, resource coordination, and advocacy for artists. This map responds to the need for a centralized resource to support artists and organizations.
New venues can be added to the map via an application form. The project particularly highlights the cultural richness of lesser-known areas like the Rockaways and Southeast Queens. Artists hope the map will evolve into a two-way platform, not only helping locate venues but also showcasing job and volunteer opportunities.
This digital map unites Queens’ creative heart, transcending its role as a mere guide to foster real connections and build a vibrant art community. Don’t you think this map is a fantastic step toward enhancing the accessibility and diversity of art?
