Artists Imagine A 'Utopia' Along The Gowanus Canal In New Exhibition

PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN — People living along the border of Park Slope and Gowanus grappled for years over the ideal design of their neighborhood. Now, hundreds of artists have joined in on the idea in a new exhibition.

"Brooklyn Utopias: Along the Canal," a recently-opened exhibition of pieces displayed in The Old Stone House and on nearby fences, features over 200 artists' interpretations of what a utopia would look like for communities living along the Gowanus Canal.

Artists presented an array of interpretations on the prompt, organizers said, ranging from pieces about preservation to art about rezoning and redevelopment.

"With climate crises, gentrification, financial instability and an ongoing pandemic hitting these communities especially hard, many artists present their own visions for a greener, healthier and more equitable Gowanus," organizers wrote. "Others explore a broader idea of urban utopia, with both local and global implications."

The pieces were made by a diverse group of local artists, as well as some students who created art as part of youth workshops. Groups and organizations that are "actively working towards a better Brooklyn" are also displayed on select banners, organizers said.

Hanging banners are only one part of the exhibition, which will also include public programs led by artists (some of whom have work featured in the show).

Programs include a collage workshop focusing on climate change, a foraging and natural dye event, and a tour of Gowanus led by a local dance troupe.

"Brooklyn Utopia: Along the Canal" is presented in collaboration between The Old Stone House and Arts Gowanus.

Find out more about the exhibition, and upcoming events, here.