Celebrating the Holiday Season in New York
**New York Newsletter: Embracing Change and Culture in the City That Never Sleeps**
As the holiday season descends upon New York City, the air is filled with festive cheer and anticipation. While residents delight in the seasonal charm of Astoria’s Christmas tree-lined aisles, the city stands on the cusp of political transition with the election of a new mayor, Zohran Mamdani. This period of change brings with it both reflections on the past and aspirations for the city’s future, particularly in arts and culture.
**A Letter to Mayor Mamdani**
In a heartfelt appeal to Mayor-elect Mamdani, Sami Abu Shumays underscores the pressing need for a more equitable distribution of cultural funding. Highlighting a striking statistic — that The Metropolitan Museum of Art receives more city funding than all institutions in Queens and Staten Island combined — Shumays advocates for reforms aligned with Mamdani’s broader affordability agenda. This open letter is a reminder that arts are integral to the city’s identity and should be supported as such.
**Exploring Divine Chaos at The Met**
Meanwhile, The Met’s exhibition *Divine Egypt* offers visitors a glimpse into the captivating world of ancient Egyptian mythology. Through tales of deities embroiled in familial strife and transformations, the exhibit presents a tableau of divine dramas that might make any contemporary family feel tame by comparison.
**Medieval Psalms at The Morgan**
At the Morgan Library & Museum, another facet of historical culture is explored in *Sing a New Song: The Psalms in Medieval Art and Life*. Critic Tamar Boyadjian notes a missed opportunity in the exhibition’s presentation, which prioritizes visual artifacts over the auditory experiences that were central to medieval religious life.
**Cultural Happenings Across the City**
Art supporters and cultural enthusiasts have several events to engage with this season. Mayor-elect Mamdani’s involvement in the arts community is marked by his support for notable artists and union initiatives at The Met. The city’s iconic MetroCard system faces its final days, with exhibits at the Transit Museum capturing its legacy. Film Forum’s *Screen Deco* series celebrates a century of Art Deco’s influence on cinema. Furthermore, Woodbine, a beloved cultural hub, prepares for a new chapter in Tribeca after 12 years in Ridgewood.
As New Yorkers navigate this transitional period, there remains an undercurrent of gratitude and a forward-looking spirit. Whether it’s a subway ride or a festive gathering, the city continues to celebrate its resilient community and vibrant culture, promising a dynamic future for all who call it home. Happy holidays, New York!