The Art Meetup Brings a Public, Donation-Based Day of Art, Connection and Community to Lincoln Center

NEW YORK, NY — The Art Meetup will bring New Yorkers together on September 12, 2026, from 1–7 PM at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center for an afternoon of creative workshops, community building and live performance.

Founded and produced by New York creative producer Lailani Gibson, The Art Meetup creates accessible spaces where artists, performers, creatives and community-minded New Yorkers can meet, participate and discover each other’s work without the pressure of traditional networking.

The September 12 gathering is public + donation-based.

PROGRAM

• 2–3 PM | Metaphors for Medicine with @Symbolik_Knight
  A creative writing and reflection workshop exploring metaphor as a tool for expression, processing and connection.
• 3–4 PM | Letters to Incarcerated People with @rootedinthework
  A guided letter-writing session centered on care, intention and meaningful connection beyond the room.
• 4–5:30 PM | Networking + Community Building
  Dedicated time for artists, performers, creatives and community members to meet, exchange ideas and build relationships in a low-pressure environment.
• 5:30–7 PM | Open Mic
  The afternoon concludes with performances from the community. Sign-ups begin in person around 1:30 PM. Slots are limited and selected day-of, with an emphasis on creative, original, family-friendly and self-contained performances.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to pick up or renew a library card and discover free New York Public Library resources, including:

• Digital media
• Research tools and databases
• Career resources
• Classes and educational resources

The gathering is part of The Art Meetup’s larger mission to make creative community more accessible in New York City by creating spaces where participation does not depend on professional status, existing connections or the ability to purchase an expensive ticket.

“New York has millions of people, but it can still be incredibly difficult to find your people,” said Gibson. “The Art Meetup exists to make that connection a little easier. You can come to share your work, discover someone else’s, meet somebody new or simply be part of the room.”

EVENT DETAILS

• What: The Art Meetup at Lincoln Center
• When: September 12, 2026 | 1–7 PM
• Where: New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center, New York, NY
• Admission: Public + donation-based
• RSVP: https://www.lailanigibson.com/the-art-meetup

ABOUT THE ART MEETUP

Founded by Lailani Gibson, The Art Meetup is a New York City creative community initiative producing accessible gatherings centered on art, performance, conversation and human connection.

Through public events, workshops, open mics and community programming, The Art Meetup creates opportunities for New Yorkers to find each other, experience new creative work and participate in the cultural life of the city.