Valentine’s Day is a day that inspires a mix of emotions, from romantic love to pressure and external expectations. While the day has evolved from its brutal origins in Ancient Roman sacrifice and martyrdom, it still carries a sense of anticipation and reflection on relationships. Instead of succumbing to the usual traditions, why not let the city’s artistic and cultural offerings guide your day this year?
Here are 10 art-adjacent cultural activities in New York City that will immerse you in visual worlds exploring desire, sex, devotion, and care:
- An Exhibition About Sex and Cults: Visit the Museum of Sex to explore “Utopia: Three Centuries of Sexuality in American Cults and Communes,” which delves into the history of intentional communities and their unique perspectives on spirituality and sexuality.
- Nightlife Ephemera at Dover Street Market: Dive into the world of NYC nightlife with a collection of rare 80s and 90s print material at Dover Street Market, featuring a panel discussion on reference culture and design.
- Writers Against the War on Gaza’s Reading and Raffle: Attend a community event at the Bureau of General Services—Queer Division featuring readings by poets and artists, with raffle proceeds going to support local causes.
- “Ask for a Love Note” at Brooklyn Museum: Get a custom poem this Valentine’s Day from a member of the Poetry Society of New York at the Brooklyn Museum, where you can share a little about yourself and receive a personalized ode.
- 8Ball Zine Fair and Afterparty: Explore the world of zines at Life World in Bushwick with 43 exhibitors, DIY valentine-making, and a lively afterparty featuring DJs, tarot readings, and more.
- Vaginal Davis: Magnificent Product at MoMA PS1: Visit MoMA PS1 to experience Vaginal Davis’s exhibition showcasing five decades of her practice, offering a unique perspective on gender and sexuality.
- Women’s History Museum at Amant: Explore the exhibition “Grisette à l’enfer” at Amant, featuring garments, sculpture, and video that unpack the intersections of femininity, labor, and value.
- Film Forum’s Tenement Stories Series: Enjoy a movie marathon at Film Forum featuring 50 films spanning 100 years of American cinema, including romantic classics like “Rafter Romance” and “The Cameraman.”
- Shop for Vintage Valentines and Bespoke Millinery: Discover vintage Valentine’s postcards and bespoke millinery at Surrender Dorothy in Flatiron, or explore food design books at Climax Books.
- ¡Bailamos! at Museum of the City of New York: Dance the night away with salsa and mambo music at the Museum of the City of New York, with dance tutorials and exhibitions on display.
This Valentine’s Day, let art and culture be your guide to a day filled with creativity, exploration, and perhaps a touch of romance.
