Faena Art recently hosted a spectacular roller disco event at its new New York location, transforming the hotel's courtyard into a vibrant, art-infused roller rink. This celebration, which included a special appearance by Cher introducing her new ice cream brand, Cherlato, paid homage to New York City's diverse creative communities and LGBTQ+ trailblazers. The event successfully merged art, music, and social gathering, creating an unforgettable retro experience that highlighted Faena's commitment to fostering community and artistic expression.
The event, held in West Chelsea, recreated the nostalgic atmosphere of 1970s roller discos, drawing inspiration from the legendary Roxy. It was designed as an immersive art installation, inviting attendees to glide over a unique art piece. Faena Art, a non-profit organization, emphasized its long-standing mission to provide free, public access to art and to build strong community ties, moving beyond traditional hotel services to offer theaters, shows, and fine art. This gathering not only celebrated contemporary talent but also honored historical figures who shaped the city's artistic and social landscape.
A Retro Roller Rink and Artistic Collaboration
Faena Art organized a dazzling roller disco event in West Chelsea, turning the Faena New York's courtyard into an interactive art installation that also served as a roller rink. This retro-themed gathering celebrated the city's diverse creative community, including artists, dancers, and designers. The event's atmosphere, complete with music from Sofi Tukker and the engaging presence of Lady Bunny, was designed to evoke the spirit of 1970s roller culture, mirroring the energy of the historic Roxy. It provided a platform for artistic expression and community engagement, staying true to Faena Art's mission of offering free cultural experiences to the public and fostering a sense of belonging among creative individuals.
The transformation of the Faena New York courtyard into an artistic roller rink underscored the organization's innovative approach to public art. Artist Eli Sudbrack noted that while a similar project in Central Park in 2004 honored the Central Park Dance Skaters Association, this New York iteration was specifically dedicated to celebrating queer icons, both past and present, from the city. Names like Pepper LaBeija, Angie Xtravaganza, Willi Ninja (who famously taught Madonna), Octavia St. Laurent, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera were prominently featured on a billboard, recognizing their significant contributions as trailblazers. This deliberate choice highlighted the event's dual purpose: to entertain and to educate, weaving together contemporary festivities with a rich tapestry of cultural history and social activism. The vibrant celebration created a space where art, music, and community converged, reflecting Alan Faena's vision of creating immersive storytelling experiences.
Cherlato's Debut Amidst a Celebration of Icons
At the Faena New York roller disco, Cher made a notable appearance, personally introducing her new gourmet ice cream venture, Cherlato. Attendees were treated to scoops of her unique creation, crafted in collaboration with Chef Giapo, adding a sweet and celebrity-powered element to the already festive occasion. The event brought together a star-studded crowd, including musicians Sofi Tukker who provided dynamic beats for the roller skaters, and the iconic performer Lady Bunny, who energized the crowd. This blend of celebrity presence, culinary innovation, and vibrant entertainment captivated the audience, reinforcing the event's status as a must-attend cultural happening in New York City.
Cher's presence and the launch of Cherlato were a significant highlight, drawing attention to the fusion of popular culture with high art and community celebration. Her involvement transformed the event into a memorable experience, where guests could enjoy a unique treat while immersed in the lively atmosphere. The gathering was not just a party but a vibrant homage to various icons. The artistic installations prominently featured images of legendary queer figures such as Pepper LaBeija, Angie Xtravaganza, Willi Ninja, Octavia St. Laurent, Marsha P. Johnson, and Sylvia Rivera. These tributes emphasized the enduring legacy and influence of these trailblazers on New York City's artistic and cultural landscape, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. The Faena Art roller disco successfully delivered a powerful message of creativity, inclusivity, and historical appreciation, all while providing an entertaining and engaging social experience.