The Best Underground Art Scenes

By underground art, I mean the less known. NYC is great because it’s full of up and coming artists trying to get their big break. Sure, you can pay big bucks for famous venues and artists, but why not find your own lesser known star to follow as they rise to fame. All of these adventures are free or very low priced, and are great entertainment at little or no cost.

If you’re looking for art, wander around the Chelsea Galleries. I’m taking around 23rd street and 10th ave, but that’s just a start. You’ll find galleries on every block – almost all FREE to the public. The artists also hand out cards featuring their work for you to take home. Most galleries have unique themes or motifs, and you’ll see all kinds of media from video to crayon, and everything in between!

How about the underground poetry scene? NYC has an amazing home for poetry, and you can find many established poets as well as many newcomers to the poetry scene at slams or poetry clubs. My favorite on the scene? Buddy Wakefield. I also want to mention my performance poetry professor, Erica Fabri, who performs throughout the city frequently. Check out the Bowery Poetry Club or the Nuyorican Poets Café. Some slams allow you to share your pieces too!

Looking for some great music? Check out Fat Cat Jazz Club. This 18+ club is a great hangout with cool music. The cover charge is usually only a few dollars and they have performers all day. Scheduled musicians are listed online, but jam sessions go from midnight to closing at 4am. Anyone is welcome to come and perform, and you get all types. While listening to music, meet some new people and play board games provided, pool, ping pong, or backgammon. Nothing like scrabble and good jazz!