Queens Like You've Never Seen It: Flushing Town Hall Unveils "The World's Borough" Exhibition

If Queens were a canvas, its colors would burst with diversity, and its brushstrokes would tell stories from every corner of the world. This November, the ever-historic Flushing Town Hall is taking on the role of storyteller with “The World’s Borough” Exhibition, a showcase featuring over 70 NYC-based artists who each capture the borough’s vibrant spirit. These artists, invited through Flushing Town Hall’s first open call in five years, have created a visual journey of the neighborhoods, cultural traditions, and historic moments that shape this unique borough.

Entrance Photo Courtesy of Flushing Town Hall

Curated by Stephanie Lee, a seasoned artist and educator with Flushing Town Hall, the exhibition highlights the borough’s dynamic spirit. Stephanie, known for her inspiring exhibitions that include Flushing Town Hall’s annual Lunar New Year showcase, brings her own artistic roots into the exhibition through works inspired by Minhwa, traditional Korean folk art. With this year’s theme, “The World’s Borough,” Lee opened the invitation to artists across NYC’s five boroughs, resulting in an overwhelming response of over 70 unique submissions. 


Every piece speaks to Queens’ eclectic identity, featuring works across mediums such as painting, drawing, photography, and mixed media that spotlight the diverse communities of the borough. The exhibition opens on November 7 with a private reception for Flushing Town Hall members, followed by a public preview that evening. For those unable to make it to the opening, the gallery will be open to the public, free of charge, from November 8 to November 25, with daily viewing hours from 12:00 to 5:00 PM. Each visit is an opportunity to witness the borough’s colorful narratives and the stories of the artists who call Queens—and New York City—their home.

Modern Wish by Stephanie Lee, Color pigment & ink on Hanji 31" W x 25" H x 2" D, Photo Courtesy of Flushing Town Hall

Flushing Town Hall has always been more than just a gallery; since 1979, it has served as a cultural beacon for the arts, equity, and education. As a Smithsonian affiliate, Flushing Town Hall connects local, immigrant, national, and international artists, creating spaces for cross-cultural exchanges. Its commitment to annual open calls like this one is part of an ongoing effort to widen its doors to New York City’s creative talent, bringing the arts closer to the Queens community and beyond.

This season, Flushing Town Hall is inviting everyone to support the arts by joining the Circle of Friends, a membership that starts with a gift of $50 and includes perks such as discounts, exclusive event invitations, and even a Smithsonian membership. For Flushing Town Hall, every donation fuels another year of global arts programming that Queens—and the world—can celebrate.

Delights in the Heights by Tina Seligman, Acrylic paint and mixed media collage on 300lb watercolor paper 19" x 24" Photo Courtesy of Flushing Town Hall

Via the 7 train or numerous buses that head to Flushing, art lovers can visit Flushing Town Hall this November and experience “The World’s Borough” through a fresh lens. For more information on visiting the exhibition or supporting Flushing Town Hall, visit their website or call (718) 463-7700.

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