Free Art Exhibit Brings Bygone Era of Coney Island to Central Park

Christopher Spinelli, This Way to the Spookarama, 2021, acrylic paint, 36”x48”

January 24, 2025 – March 14, 2025

NYC Parks is pleased to present Brooklyn Dreamland, Land without Shadows, an exhibition of paintings and drawings by Christopher Spinelli depicting a bygone era of Coney Island, on view at the Arsenal Gallery from January 24 to March 14, 2025. 

In the late 1980s, Spinelli was encouraged by illustrator Robert Weaver to get out of the studio and explore real life. Childhood trips piled in his father’s car in search of crinkle-cut fries led him to the B train, where he rode to the end of the line.  

Inspired by buzzing neon signs and accumulated layers of peeling paint, Spinelli began producing the wonderfully garish acrylic works and drawings of the then-declining amusement site featured in this exhibition. 

This exhibition is FREE and open to the public. For more information, visit nyc.gov/parks/art.   

A public opening reception will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 6 p.m. with refreshments provided by Nathan’s. 

The Arsenal Gallery 

Fifth Avenue & 64th Street, 3rd Floor  

MANHATTAN