Manhattan Fashion Directory and Clic Gallery and Bookstore are present the in-store signing of downtown New York legend Patti Astor’s first book, FUN Gallery…The True Story on October 6th from 5-8 pm. FUN Gallery…The True Story is a memoir recounting Astor’s experiences as a ballerina turned young anti-Vietnam revolutionary who eventually went on to open what turned into the most famous art gallery in the world.
FUN Gallery…The True Story focuses on the wild and wooly “downtown” days in New York’s legendary East Village. From punk rock at CBGB’s in 1975 with local bands Talking Heads, Blondie, and Television to the independent film scene with Jon Jarmusch and Spike Lee to the early 80’s art explosion, Patti Astor was at the center of the storm. The title refers to her adventures at her tenement storefront art gallery with artists Keith Haring, Jean Michel Basquiat, Kenny Scharf, Fab 5 Freddy, and Julian Schnabel along with art world icons, Leo Castelli, Mary Boone, Tony Shafrazi and Andy Warhol.
Astor states, “I wanted everyone who walked through that door to feel, ‘Yes I can make a difference here’…Both the “Oldsters” like LEE, who lived through it, and the “Youngsters,” like Shepard Fairey, who missed it have told me how much they wish they could go back and be in the FUN Gallery again. With this book I take you there.”
FUN Gallery…The True Story was edited by celebrity stylist, Angelique Max of Manhattan Fashion Directory. She describes Astor as a “true star who tells the uncut story about owning the most famous art gallery in the world. I found myself completely immersed in her book. She writes with high-energy, wit, charm and honesty. Her story is a lively behind-the-scenes slice of New York Art history.”
Guests will have an opportunity to purchase FUN Gallery…The True Story and meet the author. Entry is by RSVP to rsvp@xpsdpr.com; complimentary cocktails will be served.
