Some collaborations feel like they were simply meant to be — and this is one of them. The Clive Davis Institute, NYU's Arts and Impact Initiative, Gallatin Gallery, Woody Guthrie Publications, and
@woodyguthriecenter have come together to present something truly special: What This Guitar Might Do — an interactive exhibition drawing from the rich, storied depths of the Guthrie archive. A series of music, film, and discussion-based events will present a portrait of Guthrie as a prolific, multidisciplinary artist who used music, writing, and visual art to honor working people and fight for economic justice, equality, and social change. Our goal is to introduce Guthrie's ideals to new generations of artists and social pioneers. Our special guests include Chuck D (Public Enemy), Bill Stepheny (Def Jam), JD Samson (Le Tigre), Nora Guthrie (Woody’s daughter), Anna Canoni (Woody’s granddaughter), and a long list of local musicians, scholars, and artists. The timing of this exhibition feels particularly significant. The need for collaboration, thoughtful dialogue, and empathetic voices rising from the artistic community has rarely felt more urgent. We hope to see you there.
Why Woody Guthrie in NYC? Along with writing "This Land is Your Land" in NYC, Woody and his wife, Marjorie, raised their family in Coney Island, Brooklyn, and Woody spent his final years in Queens.
The exhibit will be on display through May 15, 2026. All events are free and open to the public.
LOCATION: The Clive Davis Gallery at 370 Jay Street Brooklyn, NY 11201
All info in our Linktree. 💜
