Past Exhibitions & Events
Roosevelt Island:
The Vision Revisited
September 26 - October 21, 2024
Photographs by Chris Vail
The Vision Revisited is a series of photographs by Chris Vail that focuses on structures and spaces on Roosevelt Island. Chris's unique perspective is enhanced by revealing bits of color in his black and white images. Together with thoughts from architects and planners who left their mark on the Island, the series provides visual evidence of the Island’s complex history.
Roosevelt Island: Art, Memory, & Community
Panel Discussion @ RIVAA Gallery
Join us for a discussion in conjunction with the current photographic exhibition, Roosevelt Island: The Vision Revisited.  RIVAA will bring together three distinguished panelists, who through their talent and remarkable efforts, have contributed to the beauty and quality of our built environment on Roosevelt Island. Amanda Matthews is a sculptor and creator of The Girl Puzzle, a tribute to groundbreaking investigative journalist Nellie Bly. Through her reporting, Nelly Bly changed how mental illness was treated in this country. Gina Pollara, Executive Director of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park from 2006-2013, oversaw the construction of the memorial designed by architect Louis I. Kahn to commemorate the 32nd President of the U.S. Susan Rosenthal, President and CEO of Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation from 2016-2020, conceived the idea of a monument to Nelly Bly. Chris Vail, exhibiting photographer, Roosevelt Island: The Vision Revisited, will moderate the discussion.
October 8, 2024 @ 7pm
Strange Terrain
Ongoing Exhibition @ The Octagon
July 1 - September 27, 2024
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​​​Opening reception: July 12, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@The Octagon, 888 Main St. Roosevelt Island, NY, NY.
Digital Painting by Tony Vita
Encounter the beautifully surreal, unique and slightly unsettling digital paintings that comprise the world of Tony Vita’s latest exhibition, Strange Terrain.
Can’t make the opening? We will miss you! The good news is that you can immerse yourself in the absorbing world of Strange Terrain anytime from July 1- September 27, 2024 at the Octagon. You will be glad that you made the trip.​
Earth, Sky and Above
@RIVAA Gallery
August 30th - September 22nd, 2024
​​​Opening reception: August 31, 2024
6:00 - 9:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
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Earth, Sky, and Above: Paintings by Saundra Lamb
Saundra Lamb looks at our world and beyond in her upcoming exhibition, Earth, Sky and Above at RIVAA Gallery. Join in her travels and share her dreamlike vision of our home, planet Earth, and its place in our universe. Her exhibition runs from August 30 - September 22, 2024.
The opening reception takes place from 6-9 PM on August 31 at RIVAA Gallery, 527 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY. Please join us, and enjoy the exhibition at no charge.
Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Arline Jacoby
September 18, 2024
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: RIVAA Gallery
Many of you knew and cherished Arline Jacoby, who as founding president, led the way in establishing RIVAA in 2001 and opening the gallery in 2002. On Wednesday evening, we invite you to join her family and friends at RIVAA Gallery in honoring her contributions to the arts on Roosevelt Island. During that time, we will unveil a commemorative plaque on the RIVAA bench as a tribute to her pioneering leadership, unstoppable creative spirit, and special legacy for our community.
Fall for the Arts
September 14, 2024
RIVAA and RIOC are pleased to celebrate another year of the Fall for Arts Festival on Roosevelt Island. On Saturday, September 14th, see what the 2024 group of talented artists produce as they paint outdoor murals on the Meditation Lawn. This year’s themes are “Waves of Change” and “Hidden Places.”
While you’re out, enjoy some music. There will be a jazz jam session outdoors next to the library. From 3-4 PM at RIVAA Gallery, 527 Main Street, Juilliard musicians Jimmy Shen and Jiaxun Yao will perform the following program:
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Schubert Wanderer Fantasy in C major, D.760
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Mozart Rondo in F major, K.494
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Boccherini Sonata in C minor G.2
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Schumann Three Romances Op.94
We invite you to join us for this complimentary concert. If you wish to show your appreciation and support these talented artists, donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.
We are hoping for good weather, but in case of rain, all events will take place on September 15th.
Spring Sonatas & Trios of Classical Delights
@RIVAA Gallery
September 1st, 2024
Music of Beethoven and Haydn Beethoven Spring Sonata and the Piano Trio Op. 1 No. 1, Haydn Piano Trio in C major, on period instruments with Cynthia Roberts, violin Arnie Tanimoto, cello Yi-heng Yang, fortepiano Free admission, with suggested donation Renowned baroque violinist Cynthia Roberts joins fellow Juilliard faculty member and series director Yi-heng Yang, along with Princeton University faculty Arnie Tanimoto, in a scintillating program of chamber music from the Classical era. Using instruments in the style of the 18th century, the musicians are able to converse in quick-witted, sparkling and intimate exchanges which characterize music of the Enlightenment period. Heard in the intimate and stimulating space of RIVAA Gallery, this is a concert where the audience will experience the spirit of spontaneous and creative dialogue found in Classical chamber music literature.​ ​ Save the date for upcoming concerts at RIVAA, autumn 2024 - spring 2025, all on Sundays at 3 PM: 11/24/24  Berwick Fiddle Consort: traditional Irish and Scottish music from the 18th c. Cape Breton and St. Clare 1/5/25  Quodlibet Period Woodwind Ensemble 2/16/25 Romantic Chamber Music with Aisslinn Nosky 4/27/25 Hilda Huang, solo fortepiano recital 5/18/25 Students from The Juilliard School
Sip & Shop
August 22 - 25, 2024
In collaboration with TH•RI•FT, RIVAA Gallery is hosting a full weekend of secondhand shopping.
We kick off the weekend early on Thursday, August 22 with a Sip & Shop – an evening to enjoy the company of your neighbors and browse a curated collection of secondhand clothing, shoes and accessories. Refreshments will be provided and available for purchase! This event is free to attend, but please register here if you plan to join.
The fun continues through the weekend with the Rummage Sale from August 23-25 during regular gallery hours below. Members of the gallery will join THRIFT selling a wide variety of secondhand goods – come find a unique treasure!
Friday from 6 - 9 PM
Saturday from 11 AM - 8 PM
Sunday from 11 AM - 5 PM​
Symbiotic Diversity
@RIVAA Gallery
August 14th - 20th, 2024
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​​​Opening reception: August 15, 2024
6:00 - 9:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
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Performances by jazz singer Christine Drayer and guitarist Mark Capon
RIVAA Gallery is pleased to host New York Contemporary Art Center in presenting “Symbiotic Diversity”, an exhibition that explores the intricate relationships between individual identity, multiculturalism, historical memory, and diverse artistic styles. The exhibition extends the theme of this year's Venice Biennale, "Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere," showcasing works that reflect the fusion and transmission of identity and history across different cultural backgrounds.​
Tell Me a Story
@ RIVAA Gallery
July 18 - August 11, 2024
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​Opening reception: July 20, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
RIVAA is thrilled to announce the opening of its summer members’ group exhibition 'Tell Me a Story'.
This distinctive exhibition showcases an array of works by various artists, each piece accompanied by the artist’s own written narrative, offering profound personal insights into their creations.
The Road Ahead
@ RIVAA Gallery
June 27 - July 14, 2024
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Opening reception: June 29, 2024
6:00 - 9:00 PM
@RIVAA
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The Road Ahead is an exhilarating group exhibition, celebrating the best works of Gen-Z artists. RIVAA has invited young creators to submit their most compelling pieces, offering a platform for their raw thoughts and feelings. Curated by Elena Jordan, Amazia Thompson, and Tiko El Outa, the exhibition showcases a vibrant collage of diverse works selected by an international panel of jurors. Join us at RIVAA Gallery to experience the bold and innovative visions of tomorrow's artists firsthand!
Doors & Storefronts of France
@ The Octagon
March 30 - June 30
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Opening reception: April 5, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@The Octagon, 888 Main St. Roosevelt Island, NY, NY.
Works by Artist Leendert Van Der Pool
Echos of the Sun King
Chamber Music @ RIVAA Gallery
June 29, 2024 @3:00 PM
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From the grandeur of Versailles to the intimate chambers of Köthen, experience how Louis XIV's patronage projected French culture across Europe, shaping the musical landscape for generations to come. Join us for an afternoon of Baroque splendor as we uncover the enduring legacy of the Ancien Régime through the music of François Couperin, Jacques-Martin Hotteterre, J.S. Bach, and others.
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David Ross, baroque flute Arnie Tanimoto, viola da gamba
Tami Morse, harpsichord
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Entry to this event is complimentary. There is a recommended donation of $25 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Your donations support both our programs and the musicians.
Pride
@ RIVAA Gallery
May 30 - June 23, 2024
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Opening reception: June 1, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Classical Music Concert: June 2, 3:00 - 4:30 PM
@ RIVAA Gallery
RIOC Pride Flag Raising: 11:00 AM @ Traffic Circle in front of Blackwell House, Roosevelt Island
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Dance Performance + Poetry: June 9, 3:00 - 4:30 PM
@ RIVAA Gallery
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Closing Reception: June 23, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Open Call - The Road Ahead
Submissions Closed
June 1 - 20, 2024
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OPEN CALL!
We Invite all Gen - Z artists to showcase their work at RIVAA Gallery.
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All mediums are accepted
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​Share your creativity and connect with tomorrow's artists.
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How to apply: Fill out Google Form
The Unrelenting eye
Solo Show @ RIVAA Gallery
May 3rd - 26th, 2024
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Opening reception: May 4, 2024
6:00 - 9:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Immerse yourself in Jim Pignetti’s world.
His latest paintings – filled with intense color – explode, splash and drip their way across a silver-toned metal surface. “The Unrelenting Eye” challenges the viewer to explore how the cold, hard surface of metal and the energetic movement of paint are reconciled in a single painting that keeps the eye engaged and constantly moving.
The exhibition runs from May 3-26 at RIVAA Gallery, 527 Main Street, Roosevelt Island 10044. All are welcome, and entry is free.
Beatles Jam Session
@ RIVAA Gallery
May 19, 2024
3:00 pm
@ RIVAA Gallery
Are you feeling nostalgic? Perhaps you have a sudden urge to sing some Beatles songs together with friends and neighbors? Whether you grew up with the Beatles or have only recently been introduced to their music, join us at RIVAA Gallery on May 19, 2024 from 3-6 PM for our second Beatles Jam Session. If you play a musical instrument, bring it with you. All contributions to the music are welcome. Play, sing or listen – the choice is yours. Whatever you do, have a good time.
Admission is complimentary. As always, any donation is very much appreciated.
Romantic Chamber Music-Weekend 2
@ RIVAA Gallery
May 5th, 2024
3:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Schumann's music is at once high drama and passion, juxtaposed with poetry and intimacy. The first two violin sonatas of Schumann contain worlds of feeling directly from the sensuality and soulfulness of 19th century German Romanticism. The 1830 English fortepiano by Collard & Collard, played by Yang, summons depths of oceanic feeling, while Lipchik's stunningly expressive virtuosity on the violin becomes a voice emerging out of the depth of varied emotional textures. The UK recording label Deux-Elles will release on May 24th an album of Schumann Piano Trios by 'Trio Ilona' with Yang, Lipchik, and Kate Bennett Wadsworth on cello. Immersed in the world of Schumann, the duo Yang and Lipchik plays Schumann's violin and piano sonatas as a celebratory preamble to mark the release of Trio Ilona's first Schumann album.
Natasha Landau
Solo Show @ RIVAA Gallery
April 4th - 28th, 2024
Opening reception: April 6, 2024
6:00 - 9:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
RIVAA is pleased to present an exhibition of the work of Natasha Landau, an accomplished costume designer and artist, who is sharing works that include sketches from several productions from Russia and the U.S. and from the Public Theater in Central Park. Additionally, she is exhibiting paintings in various media, drawings, watercolors and oils. Her inspiration has always come from the beauty of literature and music.
Romantic Chamber Music
Chamber Music @ RIVAA
April 28th, 2024 @3:00 PM
RIVAA Gallery hosts an afternoon of Chamber Music with Yiheng Yang, pianist and professor at Juilliard, accompanied by her virtuoso musical guests.
This is part of an ongoing series, if you haven’t yet attended one of these amazing concerts you should not miss the opportunity to hear a program featuring chamber works by Brahms and Emilie Mayer among others. You’ll have the opportunity to hear this stunning music played by Yang on an English grand piano from 1830. This original instrument, combined with historical style string instruments, takes us into the sound world of 19th century fantasy and aural color.
Entry to this event is free. There is a recommended donation of $25 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Your donations support both our programs and the musicians. Thank you, and see you at RIVAA.
Poetry Meets Folk Music
@ RIVAA Gallery
April 14th, 2024 @5:30 PM
Folk music and poetry blend together to offer you an enchanting afternoon of entertainment.
Entry is free, and please consider making a donation to support the performing artists and RIVAA's continued events. Thank you from all of us at the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association.
Fractality
Solo Show @ The Octagon
January 6th - March 29th, 2024
Opening Reception: January 13,
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@The Octagon
You are welcome to see a solo show by Sophia Vitko in the lobby of Octagon building, 888 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY.
Entry is free, we’ll be happy to see you there!
Initially drawn to digital and fractal art, Sophia crafts mesmerizing 3D shapes using software and formulas, fusing abstract textures and backgrounds into her compositions. A devotee of abstract expressionism, her works echo influences from de Kooning, Hofmann, and Richter.
Fund Raiser
@ RIVAA Gallery
March 15th - 17th, 2024
Silent bidding: March 15, 16 & 17, 2024
Live auction: March 17
3:00 - 5:00 PM
Auctioneer: Jim Luce
Support your local nonprofit and acquire a work of art at the same time. We look forward to seeing you there.
An Afternoon of Chamber Music
Chamber Music @ RIVAA Gallery
March 10th, 2024 @3:00 PM
Baroque Chamber Music and Free Improvisation.
The performance features sonatas and trios by JS Bach and Handel, interspersed with free improvisations by flugelhorn and cornetto player Matt Lambiase, in dialogue with Dongmyung Ahn, Baroque violin, Max Zeugner, bass, and Yiheng Yang, harpsichord.
Come for the music and stay for the reception of the “Silent Planet” illustration exhibition on view at RIVAA from March 8 - 14.
Entry is free, and the suggested donation is $25, $10 for students and seniors, to support the performing artists and RIVAA so we can continue to bring you these events and programs.
An Afternoon of Spoken Words
@ RIVAA Gallery
March 3rd, 2024 @3:00 PM
Join us for an enchanting Poetry Reading at RIVAA Gallery!,
Immerse yourself in the poetic world of Carmen Firan, Adrian Sangeorzan, Andrei Codrescu, and Adela Sinclair.
Free and open to the public!
Produced by Adela Sinclair of Bucharest Inside the Beltway and RIVAA Gallery
Don't miss this extraordinary gathering of literary talent! Share the magic, bring a friend!
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For more information: 917-858-6827
2024 Vernissage XXIII
@ RIVAA Gallery
February 16th - March 3rd, 2024
Opening reception: February 24, 2024
6:00 -9:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
It’s 2024 and RIVAA is celebrating its 23rd year as a Roosevelt Island non-profit arts organization. We are so looking forward to 2024 being a year filled with exciting exhibitions and programs.
​We make these programs for you, the Roosevelt Island Community, our friends and neighbors.
Please come and celebrate with us.
It’s free! Because... ART IS FOR EVERYONE!
Main Street Windows
@ RIVAA Gallery
February, 2024
Photographs by Anne-Marie Dannenberg
Beatles Jam Session
@ RIVAA Gallery
February 25th, 2024 @3:00 PM
3:00 - 6:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Whether the music of the Beatles bring back youthful memories or you have just discovered their music recently you can have fun singing along to Beatles songs at our jazz jam session.
The gallery is located at 527 Main Street, Roosevelt Island.
Come out and sing!
Entry to this event is free but donations are definitely welcome.
Black History Month
@ RIVAA Gallery
January 25th - February 11th, 2024
Opening reception: January 27th,2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
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We are pleased to welcome you to our annual Black History Month exhibition. This year we are celebrating “Heroes:Real and Imagined “
The exhibition is curated by Micheline Hess, a Roosevelt Island resident. A comic creator, artist/illustrator and former RIVAA member, Micheline has reached out to artist/cartoonists for portrayals of their heroes from life or those heroes they have imagined and created.
The exhibition opens on January 25, 2024 and will be on view at RIVAA gallery, 527 Main Street, until February 11, 2024.
An Afternoon of Chamber Music
@ RIVAA Gallery
January 7th, 2024 @3:00 PM
Yiheng Yang, internationally recognized fortepianist and faculty at The Juilliard School, is a Roosevelt Island resident. She presents a delightful afternoon of classical chamber music with leading period instrument colleagues, and plays on her Mozart fortepiano, which is a copy of an Anton Walter piano that Mozart owned.
The program ranges from an undiscovered Trio by Kozeluch, to one of Mozart’s chamber music masterpieces, his G minor Piano Quartet, to a rousing arrangement of Mozart’s F major Piano Concerto K. 459 for string ensemble plus fortepiano.
DiverseCity
@ RIVAA Gallery
January 4th - 21st, 2024
Opening reception: January 6th, 2024
5:00 - 8:00 PM
@RIVAA Gallery
Our first exhibition of 2024 showcases the art of longtime RIVAA member Constance Tanner.
You can stART off the New Year right with the opening reception of DIVERSE CITY on January 6, 2024 from 5-8PM. The exhibition opens to the public on January 4 and continues until January 21. All are welcome and entry is always free.