Just a Song Before I Go

Gina Beavers, Katherine Bradford, Deborah Brown, Michael De Feo, Federico de Francesco, Maureen Dougherty, Erika Ranee, Jane Swavely, Richard Tinkler, Liliane Tomasko, Kevin Umaña

Curated by Michael De Feo

What to do when rent becomes unbearable? Open a gallery.

Facing consistent rent increases at his Upper East Side studio, artist Michael De Feo has been forced to leave his beloved space. Wanting to “leave on a high note”, the artist has orchestrated a wonderful pivot – he’s transformed his art studio into a new gallery for the final weeks of his lease. In what could have been a somber farewell will now be a celebration of community and resilience.

“My studio, soon-to-be gallery, is a sunny, southern-facing space in a townhouse on East 80th Street between Fifth and Madison Avenues that I acquired during the pandemic. Artistically I have had numerous significant advances and breakthroughs here along with some devastating lows. Initially, I was very sad with the looming reality of having to leave this special spot but then began having a growing confidence that the coming change will lead to brighter days ahead. I wanted to use this crossroads as an opportunity to bring my friends together and do something fun and meaningful in a space that’s so special to me.”