40 in Focus: SummerStage through the Lens of Photographer Jack Vartoogian

From 1987 to 2019, celebrated NYC photographer Jack Vartoogian captured hundreds of SummerStage performances across Manhattan parks, from Central Park to Marcus Garvey Park and Tompkins Square Park. This selection of intimate, rarely seen imagery gives viewers a look back at past decades of outdoor live music in New York City, a peek behind the curtain with never-before-seen backstage photos and honors those artists who have passed on. From the earliest performances with Sun Ra Arkestra and Mavis and Pop Staples, to legendary artists in memoriam like Tito Puente and Hugh Masekela and backstage shots of Buddy Guy and Darlene Love, this exhibition celebrates not only a photographer’s commitment to documenting performance but also celebrates a 40-year legacy of SummerStage.This free exhibition is presented by City Parks Foundation in collaboration with NYC Parks Art & Antiquities department.An opening reception will be held on June 16 from 6pm-8 pm, offering light refreshments, music and an exclusive exhibition poster while supplies last. Image credit: Sun Ra Arkestra at SummerStage, 1989, Jack Vartoogian