SVA Academic Affairs and the Office of the Provost present “TO LOVE–TO DIE; TO FIGHT. TO LIVE. Art and Activism in the Time of AIDS,” an exhibition honoring all forms of art-based activism amid the AIDS crisis, 40 years after the idea for the iconic AIDS Quilt was conceived. Organized by alumnus and SVA Academic Affairs operations manager Michael Severance (BFA 2011 Fine Arts, MFA 2013 Art Practice) in collaboration with the New York City AIDS Memorial, “TO LOVE–TO DIE; TO FIGHT. TO LIVE. Art and Activism in the Time of AIDS” honors those who fought hard for their survival, dignity, and respect in a time when activism and art collided into spectacular actions.

As part of the exhibition, the SVA BFA Visual and Critical Studies program and the adjacent Flatiron Project Space will concurrently present “WITNESS,” curated by faculty member and alumnus Peter Hristoff (BFA 1981 Fine Arts).

SVA has partnered with the New York City AIDS Memorial to host a series of free and open-to-the-public quilt-making workshops led by artist Daniele Frazier in conjunction with the exhibition. During the two-day workshops, artists, students, faculty, and the public are invited to observe and participate in the panel-making process. Together, they will design and stitch several new panels honoring the lives of creative New Yorkers, including several SVA alumni, continuing the intention of the activists who first imagined the Quilt—to inform, to share, and to build community. RSVP for the quilt-making workshops here.

Free and open to the public.

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