The 20th anniversary of the Art in Odd Places (AiOP) festival in New York City, held on October 18, 2023, took an unconventional turn this year as organizers decided to embrace the theme of “nothing.” This shift follows a significant funding shortfall from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), prompting AiOP Founder Ed Woodham to cancel planned events and focus on a minimalist approach.
Woodham expressed his disappointment regarding the lack of support for the festival, stating that this was the first year AiOP had not received funding. In a conversation with Hyperallergic, he described the decision to do “nothing” as the “most practical and honest response.” He clarified that the theme should not be seen as apathy but rather as a “deliberate pause” for reflection on the current state of the arts.
Participants in the festival interpreted this theme in various ways. While many artists chose not to engage on the festival’s first day, a few dedicated individuals, including Woodham himself, gathered between First and Second Avenues to highlight the importance of “nothing.” Woodham promoted his new fragrance, aptly named “Nothing,” from an empty storefront, inviting festival-goers to embrace the theme.
Among those present was Lulu Lolo, who took on the title of Mayor of Nothing. Additionally, members of the Czechoslovak American Marionette Theater (CAMT) participated with kazoos and marionette strings, albeit without the puppets. CAMT Director Vit Hořejš emphasized the concept of “nothing” by pointing out that Czechoslovakia, as a political entity, no longer exists, reflecting the festival’s introspective tone.
The festival’s opening day coincided with the No Kings march from Times Square to Union Square, further reinforcing the theme of nothingness in a society increasingly critical of artistic output and funding. Woodham pointed out that this year’s AiOP aimed to shift focus from production to presence, encouraging attendees to consider a world where value is not solely defined by tangible results.
Despite the festival’s stripped-down approach, the absence of vibrant activities left some attendees feeling a sense of loss. The decision to adopt a minimalist format has raised questions about the future of AiOP and similar arts initiatives facing dwindling financial support.
NYSCA has confirmed that it is currently reviewing AiOP’s grant proposal for 2026, leaving room for hope that the festival will regain its footing in the coming years. Woodham remains optimistic, viewing this year’s theme as an invitation to experiment with the essence of art rather than its output.
The AiOP festival, despite its challenges, serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role that arts funding plays in maintaining cultural vibrancy. As the festival unfolds, it urges participants and observers alike to reflect on the significance of both presence and absence in the artistic landscape.
