The Velvet Underground Experience

First seen in Paris a few years back, this exhibition on NYC kings of cool The Velvet Underground covers the band’s formation, music, fashion and influence—which remains as strong as ever. Films, photographs and archival material reveal the world in which leaders Lou Reed and John Cale, along with bandmates Moe Tucker and Sterling Morrison, moved: a 1960s downtown underground (for lack of a better word) populated by avant-garde artists, poets, musicians, filmmakers and various associates of Andy Warhol’s Factory. In addition to carryovers from the original display, like a signed copy of the group’s debut—the Andy Warhol produced and designed The Velvet Underground and Nico—there will be a few new elements emphasizing the Velvets’ impact on American art and culture. During its run at 718 Broadway, in Noho, expect some special events, like the kickoff Q&A with violist Cale.