The Whitney Museum of American Art’s “Edges of Ailey” exhibition is a feast for the senses. Occupying the museum’s entire fifth floor, the show brings together hundreds of objects—paintings, drawings, photographs, videos, archival material, journal entries, and more—in tribute to Alvin Ailey, the late titan of modern dance whose influence on Black American culture is still deeply felt today.
Curated by Adrienne Edwards, “Edges of Ailey” was six years in the making. Though he is best known as the founder, in 1958, of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey engaged with many art forms beyond dance, and this show is similarly wide-ranging. Edwards combed through Ailey’s archives and sought artwork of all kinds that spoke to his legacy; the overall effect is a coming together of excellent Black and queer visual art that channels struggle, triumph, and transcendence—key themes of Ailey’s riveting choreography.
More than 80 artists are represented in the show, with works spanning from 1851 to this year. Presiding over all of it is an 18-channel video (and accompanying audio) playing performance clips and archival interviews. It’s a lot to take in, but it is this abundance that makes “Edges of Ailey” so very moving. A spirit of generosity coursed through Ailey’s career. What better way to honor him than by uniting so many incredible works under one roof.
Below, 10 standout pieces from “Edges of Ailey” to look out for as you make your way through this expansive show.