SummerStage through the Lens of Photographer Jack Vartoogian

Image Courtesy of NYC Parks

June 12 – August 21, 2026

From 1987 to 2019, celebrated NYC photographer Jack Vartoogian captured hundreds of SummerStage performances across Manhattan parks, from Central Park to Marcus Garvey Park and Tompkins Square Park. The Arsenal Gallery’s new 40 in Focus: SummerStage through the Lens of Photographer Jack Vartoogian exhibition features a selection of intimate, rarely seen imagery that offers viewers a look back at past decades of outdoor live music in New York City, providing a peek behind the curtain with never-before-seen backstage photos and honors those artists who have passed on. From the earliest performances with Sun Ra Arkestra and Mavis and Pop Staples, to legendary artists in memoriam like Tito Puente and Hugh Masekela and backstage shots of Buddy Guy and Darlene Love, this exhibition celebrates not only a photographer’s commitment to documenting performance but also celebrates a 40-year legacy of SummerStage. 

This free exhibition is presented by City Parks Foundation in collaboration with NYC Parks Art & Antiquities department. 

An opening reception will be held on June 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., offering light refreshments, music, and a limited number of exclusive exhibition posters.  

This exhibition is FREE and open to the public. For more information, visit the Arsenal Gallery page on the NYC Parks website. Groups of five or more people can call 212-360-8143 or email artandantiquities@parks.nyc.gov to pre-register. 

*The Arsenal Gallery will be closed on Friday July 3, 2026. 

The Arsenal Gallery  
Fifth Avenue & 64th Street, 3rd Floor  
MANHATTAN