Remembering 9/11 Through Art: “The Goodness” Art Show in NYC

Bringing "The Goodness": How I Reclaimed September 11th in New York City

I was a high school senior in Utah when the Twin Towers came down. Everyone of a certain age still feels the haunting ache of that tragic day. Fast forward to the mid-2000s when I return to New York City to live and pursue a career in art. I get the opportunity to do an exhibition of my latest body of work featuring paintings and drawings of New York life from my lens at the International Center of New York.

I purposely set the opening date for September 11th because I wanted to create a visual arts experience that would serve as counterweight to “Remembering 9/11" as it has been traditionally honored, especially for New Yorkers. The space was to be an atmosphere where people came to see amazing art, listen to great music, and connect in a fun atmosphere for a joyous experience. I named this show, “ The Goodness,” (inspired by Redman’s song of the same title) to encapsulate the spirit of this endeavor. 

The event brought so many people together and accomplished the mission beyond my expectations. I recruited my old college buddy Luke. A fantastic artist and musician who happened to recently move to the city had his own batch of paintings to fill the walls alongside me.
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My pal Alvin, a remarkably talented DJ with a great ear for what the crowd would love had the soundtrack on point all evening.

My cousin Maite, a fabulous wordsmith performed a moving poetry reading on what "The Goodness" means to her.

My work buddies and business partners also supported in full force. Plus an immense turnout of family and friends presence. There was also beverage sponsorship from Asahi and XS Energy for people to enjoy. Zipcar also sponsored the event with special offers and raffles for attendees. The International Center itself did an amazing job providing catering for the event, promoting it and bringing in a big crowd with constant traffic from the public.  

I emceed the show, so I started the event with a moment of silence to honor those we lost on that tragic day then the celebration was activated!

25 years later remembering 9/11 carries a bittersweet resonance. The horror of that history will always be present, but I will forever be proud that an alternative memory was created that people can cherish: A night of light shared with loved ones, friends, acquaintances, and of course, all of us indomitable, resilient New Yorkers.

NYC, my birthplace (The Bronx specifically. Haha)- this was a tribute to you.  ​​​

Growing Together Through Art and Memory

To me art has the power to help us heal, remember, and transform difficult moments into positive spaces of unity. In growing the PVS community, I strive to cultivate a space for us to grow together, share stories and engage in  creative reflection.

Please feel free to share in the comments below how you honor complex anniversaries, or even how you transform difficult moments into something positive or of communal connection.

​If you were there at The Goodness show I’d love for you to share your memories of that night as well!

If this post resonated with you please feel free to share with someone who might need a reminder of light today.

Memorable Moments