David Zwirner

Art gallery · Chelsea

David Zwirner

Art gallery · Chelsea

1

525 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011

Photos

David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null
David Zwirner by null

Highlights

David Zwirner's Chelsea gallery is a spacious, beautifully lit hub for free, ambitious exhibits showcasing top contemporary artists like Yayoi Kusama.  

Placeholder
Placeholder

525 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011 Get directions

davidzwirner.com
@davidzwirner

$

Information

Static Map

525 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011 Get directions

+1 212 727 2070
davidzwirner.com
@davidzwirner
𝕏
@davidzwirner

$

Features

payment credit card

Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@davidcho

Felix Gonzalez-Torres

Feb. 11 - Chelsea Art
View Postcard for David Zwirner

Ozge Ustundag

Google
David Zwirner’s Chelsea location is part of a thriving gallery ecosystem, and its exhibitions never disappoint. The space is open, minimal, and beautifully lit—perfect for showcasing a wide range of contemporary artists. Even better, admission is free, making it an easy and inspiring cultural stop. The gallery often features big names alongside emerging talent, and their programming feels both accessible and ambitious. A great reminder that NYC’s art scene isn’t limited to museums.

Romina Ricco Greubel

Google
This gallery has the greatest artists under their umbrella. We came to see Michael Armitage: Crucible and it’s one of the best artists I have seen lately. Here are the pics. Take a short ride to Chelsea to enjoy it!!

gaby guri

Google
I had the opportunity to visit the David Zwirner Art Gallery and explore the exhibition featuring the work of Stan Douglas. His pieces were both striking and unconventional, blending complex narratives with powerful visual elements. The exhibition left a lasting impression —Douglas's unique approach to storytelling through art was both intellectually engaging and visually captivating. Impressive !!!

vivi Chanle

Google
This gallery has always been a place I enjoy visiting, but lately it seems to lack the uniqueness that once made it stand out. Compared to other galleries, the recent exhibitions feel somewhat repetitive and don’t offer much variety or distinctiveness. I really hope to see more diverse and thoughtfully curated works in the future to bring back that special charm.

IrisGiovanni B

Google
I have always loved her work and been a big fan for 40 years. Unfortunately, it was a bit of disappointment. No information about how them items were made or any information on the artwork, nothing at all. Just 2 rooms with a couple of beautiful pieces and no other information. The young people who were there making sure you did not touch the artwork knew very little of the work itself. The website is not too helpful if you try to fund out the schedule. It's so incredibly disappointing. But her work is truly fun and impressive. 💛

Hilla Gershon

Google
Lovely free gallery with interesting exhibits that constantly change. Known for collaborations with Yayoi Kusama so if you're looking to visit an infinity room for two minutes, I HIGHLY recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to the opening time.

A You

Google
Nice gallery, great art piece from Yayoi Kusama. The gallery was small but free so there wasn’t much art piece to look, you can finish within 5 minutes. When I went there was not much people so I didn’t need to wait in line

oleg jelezniakov

Google
These guys are expert in Yayoi Kusama, so if you are a fan, make sure to follow them. I’ve been to two separate Kusama shows there, both featuring her legendary polka dots pieces and infinity installations. The last one had giant flowers and tentacles and DZ indeed has the space to display all that. This gallery is definitely on my radar.
google avatar

Sunny W.

Yelp
Every Way Which, an art by Richard Serra. The gallery provides a wonderful setup, making it interactive for the audience to move between each piece and deeply experience the atmosphere in person.
google avatar

Jaclyn C.

Yelp
On my birthday, I took a friend of mine to see the very anticipated Yayoi Kusama exhibit the second to last day before it was to close. I have never been to this gallery before, so I didn't really know what to expect. We came around 1PM on a Thursday, and there was already a good sizable line for the infinity room; 40 minutes or so. I didn't want to wait for the infinity room, so we just stuck to looking at her installations. I love Yayoi's work, and these larger than life sculptures were so whimsical and fun to look at and take pictures with. You can't help but look at her work more than once. You could purchase some Yayoi Kusama books, and I decided to purchase a blank journal at their affiliated book store a block down for $38.11. The staff were all very friendly and cheerful to help. Make sure you don't touch the art and just admire it!
google avatar

Katherine P.

Yelp
There are four rooms. If you don't want to wait in line to see the mirrored room, then you can go ahead and enter via the side and visit the other 3 exhibits. It's free admission. We got in line at 11:25AM, and got to the front at 12PM. They allow about 6 people in at a time. Rooms: 1. "Dreaming of Earth's Sphericity, I Would Offer My Love"- A very cool, colorful, and mirrored room, but difficult to take a photo without the reflections of other people in there + people walking by outside 2. "EVERY DAY I PRAY FOR LOVE"- A series of vibrant paintings utilizing dots and lines 3. "Aspiring to Pumpkin's Love, the Love in My Heart" - Interesting space consisting of pumpkin sculptures 4. "I Spend Each Day Embracing Flowers"- 3 massive flower sculptures There was AC in the warehouse, surprisingly. It's a good way to cool down, but not worth standing in line more than an hour.
google avatar

Julia S.

Yelp
Stopped by to view the Yayoi Kusama exhibit, and I HIGHLY recommend. We stopped by during a great time because there weren't many people around and we waited less than 10 minutes to enter the Infinity Mirror Room. I live in Phoenix, so I have seen Yayoi's Fireflies Infinity Room multiple times, and LOVE it. This one, while better for picture taking, still didn't compare to Fireflies in my opinion. There aren't too many exhibits, so you can see everything in a relatively short period of time.
google avatar

Aleksandra E.

Yelp
I believe it is incredible that you can see masterpieces. The organization was implacable, I was going to see Infinity Mirror Room by Yayoi Kusama, and it was a line that moved quickly. Besides this, there were paintings and sculptures; it was always a joy to see her pumpkin sculptures.
google avatar

Liz B.

Yelp
Really cool place to visit! I popped on in to see the Yayoi Kusama Exhibit on a weekday with no line and had a great time there
google avatar

Ashley L.

Yelp
I popped into David Zwirner's on a pouring Saturday afternoon to see the latest and greatest Yayoi Kusama's exhibit and was happy to see that not only was it free, but if you weren't trying to see the infinity room, then you could walk right in! There were 4 separate rooms that were self-paced where you could see the larger-than-life installations. Each had their own unique story and theme which was lovely. Big thanks to this art gallery and the artist for making this free and accessible to everyone.
google avatar

Avery D.

Yelp
Came for the Yayoi Kusama exhibit. Stood in line for about 35 mins for the infinity mirror room. If was pretty cool. A little underwhelming. It was small and you could only stay in for a few mins to keep the line moving. Still worth it, but I wouldn't wait longer than 30 mins. The rest of the exhibit was cool. The large flowers were super pretty. A fun free exhibition!
google avatar

George C.

Yelp
Super cool exhibit and it's free! Def one of best part in NYC is free art exhibits. Great atmosphere casual and laid back in Chelsea area there were other galleries open nearby too. Staff were all friendly and helpful, great place to check out very organized and it was very good experience here
google avatar

Monica M.

Yelp
The gallery is very spacious, and the visitor service team was very friendly and helpful. I came for the Yayoi Kusama exhibit, and it was an incredible show. The curating was beautifully displayed.
google avatar

Jennifer Y.

Yelp
Haunting and Magical is Yayoi Kusama's "Everyday I Pray For Love". A marvel is her newest Infinity Mirror Room - 60 seconds of bliss. Purposefully I stood in line 2x to enter twice. First, I relished living in the beauty the installation room, and, only on the second visit, did I bring in my iPhone for photos! Thanks to David Zwirner Art Galleries, a separate building housed this icon's newest exhibition. In addition to the infinity room, there are two floors filled with Kusama's colorful and nostalgic paintings and sculptures celebrating life and of the beyond! CHEERS!
google avatar

G B.

Yelp
Came for the Yayoi Kusama exhibit and it was very nice! i love her work and to see it up close was great! love polka dots too. i loved the flower sculptures and the yellow mountain ones. i couldn't get into infinity room because there was a line and i don't do long lines like that. she also had paintings. its free and worth a visit!
google avatar

Linda M.

Yelp
I am always fascinated by the artwork that is display in the David Zwirner's gallery. It is never a disappointment and always something that sparks my interest. Currently they have collections from Rose Wylie ("Which One") and Ray Johnson ("What A Dump"). Definitely should stop by if you are around the area!
google avatar

Florence C.

Yelp
On a cloudy day, you could see forever. On an overcast Thursday morning, I waited for an hour outside and a half hour inside with my bro to see the "Infinity Mirror Rooms" and part of the "My Eternal Soul" portions of Yayoi Kusama's "Festival of Life" exhibit- a chance of a lifetime. That day, the threat of rain seemed to keep people away (shorter lines) - yay! I really appreciated that the gallery offered the entire exhibit for free. The staff was awesome and ran the place like a well-oiled machine, letting about 6 people into a room at a time for over a minute per room. The first was full of mirrors and mirror spheres with large peepholes for viewing wowing infinity effects. It was so mirrored-up that it was nearly impossible to get a picture without my reflection in it. The second was a dark room with LED lights in dynamic colors and patterns with similar holes and mirrors to see to infinity- really amazing. The third room required shoe covers that were pretty slippery but protected the exhibit which was a dreamy white room with red dots everywhere including huge flower sculptures. Though we were only allowed over a minute in each room, it was enough to experience the infinity effects and take some pix and videos. Kudos to David Zwirner and staff for hosting such an exhibit for free and mega thanks to Yayoi Kusama who at 88, still gifts the world with her mind-blowing work. **I suggest going on a weekday (Tuesday - Thursday) in the morning (they open at 10am) when it's cloudy or with threats of rain (less people show up) and bringing a friend for conversation. **Weekend wait times could be up to 3 or 5 hours so dress for the weather in layers. Inside, you can shed some layers, since it's quite warm. **You might want to pee beforehand and bring snacks in case your wait time is several hours. You have to leave food and drinks outside of the exhibit rooms. **Follow @davidzwirner on Twitter where they'll post updates if the wait time exceeds 2 hours. **There's zero wait to see My Eternal Soul paintings at 533 West 19th St. (same building as this) and Infinity Nets paintings in the uptown gallery at 34 East 69th St.
google avatar

Maria V.

Yelp
Came for the Festival of Life Exhibit by Yayoi Kusama to see the infinity rooms. The exhibits are cool to check out but I literally stayed 10-15mins tops seeing the 3-4 rooms when I waited hours on line. I came super early one morning last week like 7am to beat traffic into NYC. I was second on line. People on line were cool- to hold your space in line if you needed to grab a coffee , snack or go to the bathroom. There was a apple cider and apple cider donut truck that camped in front that made it convenient for some people on line. Closest bathroom was a diner around the corner. I wish the exhibit was longer for the amount of time I waited to get in. The week before I tried to come and the line was wrapped around the block and then some . That was a 4 hr wait then. So I got on line at 7. Was second on line. It opened at 10am and I was done by 10:15am. I mean I'm glad I went but not sure if I would do it again.
google avatar

Mark Nowell M.

Yelp
I just have to start with the employees! They are all rude! Thats it! 3 incident happen to me here today because of how rude the employees are! I am yelper, so all my reviews are fair with no biases, so everything that I will say here is true. Today, is my birthday and I decided to see Yayoi Kusama exhibit. I waited 3 hours in the cold, I don't mind cause I really want to see her artwork. Then the first incident with a guy employee here happened. Me and my friend was following a mother and baby so the line is really long and we don't want to push the mother and baby even though there is more space on the line, the guy told and tap my shoulder and said "Hey! You better move!". I told him "yeah but say it nicely". We went in, one of the infinity rooms has a time limit of 30 seconds..There is only 3 holes and we are 8 in our group (me, my friend and 6 people not related to us) Afcourse there is a line to peek through the hole. The guy told me "are you going to peek in?? You have 2 seconds left!" Are you serious? 2 seconds?? 3 hours of waiting for 2 seconds?? We finish the rooms and we went to the other exhibit, there we can stay as long as we want. For us to take pictures, we put our bags on the floor, then this girl is running to us and say "You are not allowed to put your things on the floor because it might touch the art work, if you don't follow me I WILL ESCORT BOTH OF YOU OUTSIDE!" Wow! A THREAT?? That is how they treat people visiting an artwork? Say it in a proper way. I understand it is free, but never treat anybody like that. We are people breathing the same air. No need for that. On a positive note, I love the exhibit of Yayoi Kusama, love the polka dot room! Will visit Tokyo or LA soon. I will never visit David Zwirner again, because of the employees. Treat people how people wants to treat you. Everything is just wrong, never again.
google avatar

Linda T.

Yelp
Review for my experience of only viewing Yayoi Kusama's "My Eternal Soul" paintings: I did my due diligence for the past few weeks and decided not to wait 2-4+ hours on the line to view the infinity rooms. I checked out the Instagram photos (i.e. #FestivalOfLife) to see if it was worth waiting for. I guess the "Infinity Mirror Room - Let's Survive Forever" (i.e. The room with the mirrors and silver balls) is probably the coolest thing to see at this Yayoi Kusama's Festival of Life exhibit. I didn't want to wait on the lines for hours in the COLD to view something for one minute or less. I would probably wait 30-45 minutes tho. So, I just went directly to view Yayoi Kusama's "My Eternal Soul" paintings at 533 West 19th Street. There's no lines and it's walk-in. Upon entering, you'll see 66 HUGE colorful paintings by Yayoi Kusama. There's also three flower sculptures in the middle. I was there for 30 minutes to take my time in viewing the paintings and taking some photos. There's about two museum staff at this exhibit and they would warn people not to get super close to the paintings or the flower sculptures. Tips for those who still want to go view the infinity rooms: 1) Follow David Zwirner Galley on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. They will post the current wait times for the infinity rooms. 2) Check Instagram with the hastag #FestivalOfLife to view the photos and see if it's worth going. 3) Bundle up - it's gonna be COLD if you wait for 2+ hours on the line. 4) Read the Yelp reviews from Christina E. (11/8/2017) and Swatee A. (11/16/2017). I found them to be very helpful.
google avatar

Natty C.

Yelp
OMG yes, yes, yes! Go if you still can, before December 15th. I came on a weekday morning and the line was an hour. It's free, people! So many good instagram worthy pics. Worth it for me. There are 3 rooms, you get a minute per room. They time you in the first room (mirrors) and are strict about it too. Check out the art gallery after, I loved it all.
google avatar

Neelam P.

Yelp
The Yayoi Kusama exhibit currently on display at the David Zwirner gallery is a real trip and visually beautiful. But honestly, it takes more than a minute to process and appreciate what you're looking at so it's a real shame that they rush you in an out of the exhibit. In any case, from what I could gather she seems like a really interesting human with unique artistic abilities. The best times to go are probably rainy afternoons when no one else really wants to wait in line. They also say Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons are a bit lighter than the rest of the week.
google avatar

Johanna B.

Yelp
I love art and museums so when I saw that this was/is the hot ticket in town (until December 16), I had to check it out. It was one reason along with a newly acquired FOMO (fear of missing out) sentiment. Keep in mind, this is free to the public (hence the wait for the Instagram worthy Infinity Mirror exhibit in Chelsea). Currently, the artwork of 88 year old Yayoi Kusama is on exhibit across three spaces in Manhattan. One on 34 East 69th street--"Infinity Nets" (no wait--just waltz right in) and the others on West 19th Street. I decided to make my way uptown first and play by ear the downtown exhibits based on what the wait time would be. At the uptown location, the curator mentioned that the wait time for the Festival of Life in Chelsea has recently been 25 minutes between the hours of 1:30-3:00 PM. I took his advice; however, it was not the case when I arrived between those hours. But back to the East 69th street exhibit at David Zwirner. This exhibit was a collection of new paintings approximately one dozen in total and for the most part, was fairly easy to breeze through all of it in about 15 minutes or less. I then decided to head downtown to view the collection of 66 paintings--My Eternal Soul---(no wait on line) and find out what the wait time was for the other exhibits (both adjacent to one another at 525 and 533 West 19th Street (near the Highline). Once I arrived, I saw a long line nearing the end of the block and immediately thought this was at least a 90 minute wait if not more. I decided to check out the paintings collection which were really quite lovely and colorful--definitely worth seeing. Many people were enjoying the paintings, taking selfies or asking other visitors to snap pictures of them (the museum workers were not allowed to take pictures of visitors). When I asked the person at the desk about the other exhibit and whether it was worth waiting on line for, she informed me that the Mirror exhibit was mainly in the interest of those who were looking to post on Instagram. She also misinformed me that the Polka dot exhibit required no waiting on line. That said, I proceeded next door (as the line grew) to check out the Polka dot exhibit. Once there, I was informed that in order to see it, I had to join the line outside. She called the person at the painting exhibit to ask and sure enough I was misinformed. Because of her error, I was permitted to walk right into the Polka dot exhibit (every individual's shoes had to be covered with certain slip ons provided by the museum). The Polka dot exhibit was just one room. White and pink. Everyone was taking selfies and enjoying the unique experience. My observation at the paintings and polka dot exhibits was that the museum workers were frequently freaking out whenever it appeared a visitor was too close to the painting artwork or polka dot flower sculpture. A bit strange. Unfortunately, I was unable to wait on the long line to visit the Mirror exhibit. I might give it another shot before the exhibit ends on December 16, but to wait 2-3 hours was something I wasn't willing to do on this given visit. However, I did enjoy the other exhibits particularly, the paintings (the most) in Chelsea. I would suggest it's worth checking out if you're into interesting, unique and buzz worthy events.
google avatar

Tiffany C.

Yelp
I absolutely adore this gallery! I specifically visited to see the Yayoi Kusama exhibit and experience her incredible infinity room. I went on a weekday morning, and the wait was about 15 minutes. Additionally, the other artwork in her exhibit was beautiful, diverse and shows the continuity ot her message / style. The staff were also incredibly educated and helpful in letting me know more about her style / inspirations. Given admission is free, this is a must go!
google avatar

Troy L.

Yelp
This is a free exhibit. Exhibit was okay. Totally not worth the wait. Bring a few friend if you decide to wait. You wait in a line outside in the cold for 2 plus hours to see an exhibit for 5 minutes. Just not worth it especially in the cold. Exhibit is open from 10 am to 6 pm early. I came at 2 pm on a random afternoon and there was a wait. I waited two hours to get in. I heard some people have waited 5 to 6 hours on a busy day.
google avatar

Carolina S.

Yelp
David Zwirner, can I give you a giant hug?! I can't believe you brought one of my favorite cartoonist of all time to NYC, Mr. Robert Effin Crumb!?!! I not only own comics but the documentary, his band's album and even the compilations he compiled and illustrated. There was absolutely nooooo way I was missing Drawn Together with his wife Aline Kominsky Crumb. I was ecstatic to arrive but I was too late too catch my hero and his band play. Devastating! Being only one wall apart. I hope they do a book signing or something to give us that have to work until 6 a chance to see these two in the flesh! The exhibit was a collection of comics they worked together with along with solo items and memorabilia documenting their love for each other. I loved seeing their photobooth pics. I completely devoured the comic where they each drew themselves including their daughter Sophie. It was very autobiographical. You basically are stepping into the lives of the Crumbs. There was one room of Aline's life from the start to her life changes and meeting Crumb to France. It was very interesting to decide what moments she felt molded who she is today. My favorite is the wall with all of the Crumbs pieces! The portrait Aline did of "Rahbit"! was wonderful. The great R.Crumb dartboard. But my fave is the drawing on the doily. This is how I imagine R.Crumb, doodling on whatever he can find and having small coffee spills to add his personal touch. I heart the Crumbs! And am happy that David Zwirner brought this show together! It's not every day you can see the raw pen drawings along with much more of your favorite cartoonist in the flesh! Now if only I can see him in the flesh....hint...hint

Mike S.

Yelp
Great gallery but, the associates are rude. One man in a Winnie the Pooh denim shirt and dirty converse was extremely rude. Please enforce a dress code for such a high establishment.
google avatar

Christina E.

Yelp
A guide for avoiding a murderous wait to FREE and Instagrammable exhibits: 1. Come near the opening time frame (10-10:30a weekdays/9a weekend; Earlier if exhibit is running on its last week) 2. Do not come during inclement weather they will not let you in (as told by group of tourists standing next to us) 3. Come with a friend you haven't seen in awhile so you have lots to catch up and talk about for 1.5 hours or with someone that you really really like. Alternatively, bring a book if going solo 4. Use the restroom/grab a coffee beforehand in preparation 5. Have camera fully charged and ready to go, selfie poses in mind because you will not have a lot of time once inside (30-60 seconds/5-10 seconds) Yes, it is highly timed and varied. You are highly watched 6. Bundle up cause Winter Is Here **Plan smart to reduce your wait time or Plan to suffer! Yayoi Kusama Infinity Room Exhibit 2017: Cool to see if you have time/in the area/with a friend or S/O and don't mind waiting a bit to appreciate viewing free artwork. Arrive early, and for my friend and I, luckily the wait time really flew by (approx an hr and change for us) I definitely wouldn't wait past 1.5 hours for it. Tends to run on the overrated side and the exhibit here in NYC didn't seem as spectacular as previous ones, or others showcased around the world. I appreciated it for what it was though, and do highly enjoy the artist's work. Definitely piqued my interest for wanting to experience her other works abroad.
google avatar

Sarah C.

Yelp
I came to the David Zwirner Gallery to see the Yayoi Kusama Infinity of Life exhibit that has been extremely hyped up all over social media. The gallery opened at 10 AM and we got in line around 9:20 AM. The line was already wrapped around the block. Overall we waited a total of 2.5 hours in line in the windy cold to get into the exhibit. Get there early otherwise you will definitely wait around 2-4 hours. They also will cut the line off at a point where they don't think you will be able to get in by their closing time of 6 PM. The exhibit features 3 rooms - two for the Infinity Mirrors and one for a polka dot environment. There was also one room to the side of the gallery meant for viewing of paintings and flower sculptures. I think I was underwhelmed because we waited so long to spend a total of 2 minutes in two infinity rooms. Also, out of these 2 rooms, only the mirrored ball room is a physical room. The "room" with the multicolored, trippy lights is actually a room with a structure with peep holes. You look through the peephole to actually see the multicolored lights. The third room, the polka dot environment, was very cool and gave a nice view into Kusama's view. This room you had to wear provided shoe covers since it's all white. It features a white room with red polka dots and large flower sculptures. Overall, I feel that the exhibit would have been more appreciated if the wait weren't so long to then only spend 2 minutes to view the most desired rooms. It was still an experience that was worth my time as it was very cool to see and to wonder how someone created an exhibit like this one, however, I definitely would not go back to view again or go to the second location in the city. It is a free exhibit which is different than other exhibits at museums.
google avatar

Sherry J.

Yelp
I came here on a Thursday and arrived at 9:20am. The line had not even reached the end of the street so at first I felt lucky. 10minutes passed and at 9:30, enough people had shown up to stretch the line to the end of 19th st towards 11th Ave. By 10:37 I had made it inside, but there was one more line. The first room is the one with steel balls where you get 60secs to look around. You come out of that room and put on shoe covers to walk into the second. The second room has 3 holes you can look through and you're only allowed 30secs. So make sure you stick with a small group of 3! With 6 people you won't be able to see much. The third room has no time limit and you're free to stay and take pictures. By 10:48 I was already in the gallery next door where all the paintings are. Technically I only waited an hour but I already felt it was not worth it. I didn't like that I had to appreciate the art within a certain time limit. I was more concerned with taking a picture so I could remember what I actually saw. Tldr; not worth waiting more than an hour. If you do plan to, bring food and bundle up!
google avatar

Grace F.

Yelp
So I'll just start out saying we are HUGE Yayoi Kusama fans (i.e. we actually tried insanely to get tickets online for Kusama's huge retrospective show in Washington DC's Hirshhorn museum & when that failed we waited in freezing march weather for 3 hours to get day of tix) so waiting does NOT faze us...with infant no less. For David Zwirner's most recent Kusama instagrammable selfie bait exhibit Festival of Life--the lines & wait have proven somewhat worse than the Hirshhorn in DC. We went on a freezing friday in November at 1pm & waited 3 hours in Chelsea area gallery (make sure you know which gallery of Zwirners has the art you want to see bc theres upper east side (some Kusama net paintings) but the more popular aka Instagram bait is in the Chelsea location. Now if you are not a fan of this particular artist you will likely be bitter you waited 2-4 hours on average (as per the Zwirner gallery twitter updates) I will give credit where it's due--Zwirner gallery updates its twitter line status often & honestly (in mornings if you come at 9-9:30am you may only wait 1 hour) & at what time they cut off afternoon lines. So the line is as well managed as a 2-4 hour daily line can be. Now for actual art--there are two infinity rooms (one large with mirror balls & one small you can't go in but only look into peephole). The marquee exhibit is the room so entirely covered in red polka dots that even the floor & ceilings are covered & you must wear shoe covers--entitled --quite the mouthful--with all my love for the tulips I pray forever. This room is incredible & I was happy I got to see it even though I waited...a long time...in the cold. Ps--if you get in line then bail halfway--there is a Zwirner area of Kusama paintings plus the polka flower sculpture you don't need to wait in line to see & its only 30 feet from the infinity rooms that you do need to wait for.
google avatar

Anna X.

Yelp
My friend and I were finally able to catch Yayoi Kusama's exhibition yesterday during its last week. We went to see the "Festival of Life" one in Chelsea. We figured the lines weren't going to be very long (rumors of people waiting in line for nearly four hours in the cold on the weekends?!) on a weekday afternoon, but we were still in line for a little more than an hour and a half (we arrived at around 12:15 PM). Doors open at 10 AM, but according to the various reviews I've read, people are in line well before the opening time. Be sure to bundle up!! They try to get as many people through the gallery door as possible. Once you're inside, you'll still be waiting to enter the two separate exhibits, but it'll give you a chance to warm up before you can observe the art. The first room was the mirror exhibition​, which was fairly enclosed, but had enough room to accommodate around six people at a time (The staff members try to keep you and the people you arrived with in the same group!)​ The installation was spiraling and dazzling, with round balls suspended in the air and littering the floor. The mirrors made the small room feel endless and vast. You also had to be careful about getting too close because there was a museum staff member watching the room and timing you. Outside of it, there were two smaller installations where you could peer in and see an array of flashing colors and more mirrors. The second room was the polka dot exhibition. You had to wear shoe covers to walk in. Red polka dots were scattered across the white walls and white floors and on the oversized flower sculptures as well. It was cool because the sculptures seemed to be camouflaged​! Truly a unique sight!! You were allowed to spend more time in this room- and given its vast size, more people were able to be accommodated. I wish we had more time in these rooms, especially the mirror exhibition! There was just so much to see and explore but instead, ​you felt a bit rushed- but it was understandable. Next door (there's no line for this one- you just walk in), you can see a variety of large, colorful paintings (every color on the rainbow!) filled with various shapes and patterns. There were also some smaller colorful, polka-dotted flower sculptures here which were nested in the middle of the room. I loved how you were able to take your time to observe these pieces. Overall, the experience was a unique one. I'm glad I was able to get a brief glimpse into the art of Yayoi Kusama, even with the time constraints of each room.
google avatar

Olivia S.

Yelp
Pretty cool exhibit. Awesome rooms! Was it worth the wait? Yes. However, after waiting an hour to get in they rush you through each exhibit as you only have 1 minute, yes you read correct, 1 whole minute to enjoy and figure out what you're looking at. Not cool. The infinity mirrors was of course my favorite, such an interesting room. Like how do they do it?
google avatar

Jessie H.

Yelp
DO NOT COME ON THE WEEKEND!!! LINES ARE LONG AF!!! It opened at 10am, I came here at 11am and the line was down the block- wrapping around 11th ave and then back up 20th street almost up to 10th ave- WHY!!!!?!?!??!?!?! At first I thought the wait time was 2hrs so I waited. When the first hour had gone by I knew I made a terrible mistake coming on a Saturday but it was too late I was already an hour in and committed. I waited 5 hours- YES U SAW THAT RIGHT. FIVE!!!!!! Don't ask me why. I was committed. Once I finally got in I had basically put in a workday with zero bathroom breaks. There are no bathrooms inside btw. There's another line inside to get into infinity mirrors. 6 people inside at a time and for only 60 seconds. YES they time you!!!! The lady was like you have 30 more secs. I really didn't know what to do with myself- TAKE ALL THE PICTURES. Get your instagram, snapchat, fb, camera, ready because if you didn't take pics were you really there?? So after 60 seconds in the infinity mirror you're rushed into the next room with the different colors in the box. They give you socks to put over your shoes so you don't ruin anything in the last room which is the plants and polka dots. The whole thing took like 3 minutes. I wasn't even sure if I was really there like it went by so fast I didn't even remember. Honestly it is pretty cool - the infinity mirrors room but save yourself and come during the weekday where most people are working so you won't have to waste your entire day waiting in line.
google avatar

Jane N.

Yelp
Super stoked to see what the creator of the infinite mirrors had to offer so came here on a late Wednesday afternoon after work. I guess I got super lucky? Got to the location around 5:10 pm and was possibly in before 5:15. There was 3 other people ahead of me and my coworker outside the entrance but upon entering there was a long but super fast moving line. Excited that the line was moving rather quickly but finding the source of it was quite sad. Workers were pretty friendly, didn't have any issues with that but the whole 30 seconds for one exhibit was a downer. Maybe a whole min or two would've been better? If you're in it for the gram I would suggest you to have your cameras out and know your angles upon site. Honestly you might have to go for a second entry. I don't believe you can enjoy the exhibition AND take a decent picture. If you are a fan of the artist I'm sure you can work something out.

Art C.

Yelp
SPACE - open, good lighting, not crowded SHOW - Harold Ancart is Belgian-born, New York-based artist. - On view are a series of paintings that depicts trees with different background and foreground color studies. - These works were painted between Ancart's Brooklyn studio and a makeshift outdoor studio in Los Angeles, which he traveled to during lockdown. THOUGHTS - Worth a look. - Some of the works have a magnetic effect that are worth meditating to. - Give yourself the time needed to appreciate these paintings.
google avatar

Steph Y.

Yelp
I've visited David Zwirner Gallery twice now - both times for the Yayoi Kusama exhibits. My first time was for the "I Who Have Arrived in Heaven" and then recently for the Obliteration Room exhibit. I still remember the first time I came here a year and a half ago with my friend for the "I Who Have Arrived in Heaven" exhibit. It was in the middle of a freezing winter day on a Saturday and we had to wait 4.5 hours in line outside on the street in the arctic blast for the Infinity Room in our flats. It was not pleasant (quite brutal actually) but it was worth the wait and I'd do it all over again. The Infinity Room was absolutely magical but you were only allowed 45 seconds in there. You could either go by yourself or go in with your friend(s). The Loving is Calling exhibit was really awesome as well and the line for that wasn't as bad because the room could fit a lot more people. Recently I came for the Obliteration Room on a weekday right at 10 AM when it opened. There were no lines but still a decent amount of people. Since it wasn't as crazy busy as the previous exhibit (also probably because it was a weekday), everyone was allowed to spend as much time as they wanted in the room which was a treat especially when it's so hard to get a good photo without anyone photobombing you unintentionally. Staff also gave us colorful stickers to add to the Obliteration room. When I was done, I checked out Yayoi Kusama's Dreaming Pumpkin room for a bit and then went into the art gallery to check out her new art. I haven't been here for any other exhibits but I love how the area is so spacious and clean. If there ever is a very popular exhibit here (aka Yayoi Kusuma) I highly recommend coming on a weekday even if you don't live in the city. Just have a treat yourself day and look at some wonderful art :)
google avatar

Nicholas C.

Yelp
I give this gallery four starts because I'm more of a a fan of the artwork I went to see, and not a fan of how the opening of this particular exhibit was executed. I had the opportunity to attend the opening of Yayoi Kusama's "Festival of Life" exhibit on November 2, 2017. The exhibit showcased one of the artists famous Infinity Rooms along with a sculpture room and a section showcasing the artists paintings. All great stuff and I'd definitely recommend going to see Kusama's works. In reference to the organization, the gallery's website informed people to arrive an estimated 2 hours before the opening of the event (in anticipation of the long line that would form). I came an hour and a half before, and I'm happy I did. By the time they started letting people in I heard rumors that the line had stretched around the corner and down two blocks :0 Once inside, we waited once again to go into the Infinity Room. However, we were cutoff not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES but separate "Guest groups" that were able to skip the line inside. I mean I can understand if their priority, but this added an additional 15 minutes of waiting once you're already inside the gallery! Opening Nights are great, but be prepared to be rushed through the individual exhibits. We were given about one minute (timed) in each of the three spaces. While waiting in line I asked an employee when she would suggest coming where there was a least chance of a line in regards to seeing any popular exhibit at the Zwirner Gallery. She said weekdays at opening are PRIME TIME. So if you're looking to come and get the perfect picture with no one to bother you, I'd aim for that time frame. Overall, the space is beautiful and other exhibits I've been to here have also been great. This review focuses on an Opening Night at the David Zwirner Gallery, so don't be dissuaded to visit the space during any other given day if you're contemplating it.
google avatar

Anita W.

Yelp
Came here this past weekend to see Yayoi Kusama's 'Festival of Life' exhibit with a friend. Reading how the gallery opens at 10am, our plan was to get there right at opening to avoid the long crowds. Of course, everyone else had the same idea, too! When we arrived, the line wrapped around the entire block and there was a line usher directing everyone on line. He estimated that in the position we were in, it would take about 4-5 hours. In the end, it took 4 hours. When people asked the line attendant what time people would come here to wait on line, he responded that he arrives to work at around 8am and there's already a line down the block, but he doesn't know exactly what time the line started forming. A few groups of people left the line after 15-20 minutes or so of waiting so that was good news for us behind them. Most of the time spent waiting was in the shade and even though it was forecasted to be in the mid 50's that day, it was still freezing. Make sure to bundle up, especially your extremities! Tips: - bring a friend or two! - conversation definitely helps pass the time and the fact that you two can switch on and off in line greatly helps in case one of you needed a bathroom break or wanted to go get some coffee or drinks for the group. There aren't too many cafes in the area but there's a few places down 10th avenue by the High Line. - Bundle up - bring hates, scarves, gloves, etc. I definitely regretted not dressing warmer. What to expect when you enter: (may contain SPOILERS) - They let flows of people in of around 10 people. Once you finally get in the lobby area, there's a line of benches against the wall and you slowly move down. - For the first room that's like an infinity room with mirrors on all sides, they count up to 6-7 people to go in at a time. Then you get about 1 minute inside to take pictures, and "ohh" and "ahh" over the exhibit. They do keep track of time and ask you to leave after time's up. - Then you wait in line and put on these plastic shoe covers to protect the floors of the final exhibit. But before the final exhibit, you wait in line again for the 2nd exhibit. Here you get to look through window and see this color changing "infinity" box. You get to peak through and watch the colors change for 30 minutes. - After the workers direct you to the final room that's full of polka dots and three giant tulips. There isn't exactly a time limit in here and people stay for about 5 minutes and leave after snapping a few shots. Suggestion: - I know this is a gallery, and long lines help attract visitors and start the conversation with passersby, but as my friend and I were waiting, we were discussing how it'd be great if they could implement some system similar to Fast Passes at Disney. For example, when you arrive, you grab a ticket or "sign in" or something and they will tell you a time to come back. This could definitely decrease the long wait period and allow you to run some errands in the meantime and not waste time. This overall experience was very different than the one I had when I came here for a similar infinity room exhibit 4 years ago - Kusama's 'I Who Have Arrived in Heaven'. I think I enjoyed that one more than the recent one. We were allowed to go in the infinity room alone, which looked like a galaxy with lights all around, however this does mean a longer waiting time (I waited for about 6 hours then).
google avatar

Victoria E.

Yelp
A good friend mentioned to me that the Armory is offering a haunted house special called Hell in the Armory, it involves performance arts and BDSM scene that is meant to scare and provoke. Halloween is the biggest holiday in San Francisco for Peter Pans (yes it's also a birthday to a certain someone), and this could be one of the best, if not the best entertainment in town. Yet, before I had decided to go or not, I was sufficiently discouraged by the production value after having just returned from New York. You see, New York gets high concept art. There is nothing like Sleep No More NY. There is nothing like what's on display at David Zwirner Gallery: Marcel Dzama's Une Danse des Bouffons completed entranced me. This is the difference between a superb art gallery and a provincial town like San Francisco. Even the highest provocateur like the Armory cannot produce the high concept art one would expect to see on any given day in Chelsea. David Zwirner Gallery puts up a phenomenal show. Two films played simultaneously while the art on the wall tells an intriguing story. Children sat through the film, not once but twice, equally mesmerized. Art is ageless. The space is quite lovely. Very airy and sparse. I'm biased of course because David Zwirner is German and German aesthetics appeals to me. Time Out magazine has given tourists an quintessential New York gallery to visit. Now how do I get myself a piece of Marcel Dzama?
google avatar

Kal L.

Yelp
My all-time favorite art gallery in NYC, I went on the second to last day of Yayoi Kusama's "Everyday I Pray for Love," exhibit where David Zwirner debuted a brand new Infinity Mirror Room. The biggest draw of the exhibit was the "Infinity Mirrored Room: Dancing Lights That Flew Up To The Universe," you had a maximum of 60 seconds in the room and in true Kusama fashion: the room did not disappoint. Her gigantic mercury-like "Clouds" were equally stunning and beautiful. If there is a Yayoi Kusama exhibit (traveling or permanent) near you, I Highly recommend you visit come rain or shine but be prepared to queue.
google avatar

Michael C.

Yelp
Line was so long, although going inside is pretty good experience! The gallery is free so it was good. I enjoyed taking photographs with their arts and special area.
google avatar

Gloria K.

Yelp
I came here for the infinity room/ Yayoi Kusama's art. Around 12pm, the wait to get in was about 45min which wasn't too bad. The art exhibits itself was pretty cool to see and beautiful but the time allowed to spend in each exhibit was too short. I understand why it's timed at 45 seconds per exhibit but 45 seconds fly by super fast once you're in the exhibit. I personally would not wait more than 1 hr for just 45 seconds/exhibit but do it for the gram, right? 4 stars because it's free, the gallery itself is nice and clean, the staff are all really nice, and the infinity room was pretty cool.
google avatar

Liz C.

Yelp
*** Yayoi Kusama review *** Came here for the Obliteration room exhibit. It was a really short wait despite getting there after 10 AM (I guess it's not as popular as last year's exhibit?). We probably waited about 10 minutes max. The staff let you take your time in the exhibit too, which was really nice. Such a fun exhibit! Highly recommend for dates, kids, etc! Note: You can take as many photos as you want!
google avatar

John T.

Yelp
Came here for the famous Infinity room exhibit. I would recommend coming on a weekday and preferably early in the day. I came on Friday around 12 and only waited 45 mins. It was a great exhibit but i thought it would've been nicer if people got to experience the exhibit alone for 15 seconds then a whole group for 45 seconds total. Hard to see infinity if there are other folk in the room. Otherwise it was a cool experience to finally check out the artwork of Yayoi Kusama. Definitely check out the artwork exhibit after you see the infinity rooms, I thought that was more stunning then the rooms.
google avatar

Jen N.

Yelp
I like the different exhibits they hold here. The most recent one being Yayaoi Kusama was well executed was beautiful. However, I wish they had an online reservation to organize the event better. You literally wait 4 hours and once you get inside they only give you two minutes inside the infinity mirror and longing for eternity. I felt rushed and couldn't really appreciate the artwork since I kept bumping into people. Even two minutes inside the exhibit but by yourself would've been much better than groups of 10 in a small tight space. Bottom line it was beautiful but the wait and cramped space was not worth it.
google avatar

Chris E.

Yelp
FINALLY got a chance to visit the 2 Yayoi Kusama infinity rooms recently and it was well worth the wait! It's more ideal to come on a weekday if you can, but if you can only make it on a weekend be sure to get here plenty early. I recommend getting here as early as 8:30am and toughing it out. If you arrive at this time, it'll probably be about a 1 hour wait only (for the The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away room) when the doors open at 10am. Luckily the "Love is Calling" room had no wait at all so we went to the Lights room (door closer to 11th Avenue) first and then immediately went into the Love room (door closer to 10th Avenue). I heard the wait for people at the back of the line was up to 5 hours, so dress very warmly and wear ALOT of layers on your feet, body and head. Although the wait can be long for the Light room, it can be fun if you bump into the right people on the line like my friend and I. We chatted it up with a few linemates the entire time and it was an absolute blast waiting with them. It's amazing the people you can meet randomly! We chatted about everything from who we were, our careers, schools to topics like movies, funny current events and personal experiences of waiting. As for the Light room, there is another 15 minute wait inside the gallery once you get in. In that time, you are given "booties" to wear on your feet to keep the infinity room clean. You also get a preview of the Light room as the door opens everytime to let the next person in. Once you get in, you are timed and given 60 seconds to do whatever you like in the room, including snap photos. I recommend snapping as many photos as possible at the start and then looking around after. As you walk in, you notice the pond of water surrounding your standing platform. The lights flicker throughout the 60 seconds and the room goes dark at one point as well. It's quite an interesting experience. After you're done, head straight to the Love room. Same scenario - Booties on and 60 seconds, however many people can go into the room at once. Once inside, you'll immediately notice all the colors and mirrors. Once again, snap as many photos as possible and then take a look around to appreciate it. After you leave, you get to go to a room where a "CREEPY" video of Yayoi Kusama is shown. It's a bit weird, but I guess the entire exhibit is. Overall, well worth the unique experience as it's being shown only a limited amount of time, so go quick before it ends!
google avatar

Laquana B.

Yelp
I give this gallery one star because the staff is nauseous! I called the gallery to find out more information in regards to the exhibits showcased at their Chelsea location and the individual who answered the phone was desensitized and obviously irritated she has been answering the same questions all day. It's like I was bothering her while working....go figure smh. Then when I arrived at the gallery they line moderator was also disheartened to do his job. He was such a crowd favorite that he had to buy us pizza to redeem his bad attitude. Clearly this gallery doesn't have the budget to hire individuals who actually want to enhance the guest experience but just enough to have a body doing the bare minimum.
google avatar

Rachel S.

Yelp
Love this gallery and the amazing staff that runs it! Considering what a madhouse the line is and people are heading to instagram the Yayoi Kusama show, the staff has been great. Beautiful art and shows are a constant at this place. My favorite show to date was the Lisa Yuskavage show (SO SO SO GOOD!!!!!!). Her work was truly awesome and something to behold. I love the sheer surreal dreaminess her work had. The shows this gallery has been putting out the last couple of years have been daring and truly enjoyable. I look forward to what they have in store for next. btw: For people who normally don't go to museums/gallery shows like this, remember it's important not to touch/ lean on the art. Most of the work is super expensive and usually private, so it's a privilege we get to see this stuff up close and personal. Be respectful to the staff and kind to the volunteers. It's good to be excited about art and fun to see so many people engaged, but don't make the whole thing only about you & ur instagram. Saw a lot of people being very rude to the workers, who were clearly exhausted. If the staff seems distracted it's probably because they are so swamped. Give them a minute or two in terms of asking for help/ questions (former gallery worker here lol). Give yourself some time to prepare for the long lines (in the more popular shows) and understand if there are time limits due to the sheer number of visitors.
google avatar

Kinya L.

Yelp
This was my first visit to the location and it was easy to find. I immediately noticed a garage door opened with a lined formed outside of a house. I realized I have arrived at the desired location. I waited for about three to four minutes and the person at the exhibit handed everyone a sheet of stickers. I believe it's called participatory art. You can place the stickers throughout the home and create your own work of art. The artist was Yayoi Kusama and this particular exhibit will be at the gallery till June 13, 20015. "Give me Love" is a must see if you are in New York.
google avatar

Charisse S.

Yelp
I stopped by the David Zwirner galleries on the first Saturday the Infinity Room exhibit came in to town. Big mistake! It's definitely something you'd have to squeeze in on the weekday. My friend arrived a quarter after 2pm and they just started to cut off the line. We didn't get in until nearly 6pm. Mind you, the gallery is open from 10am-6pm. Once we made it inside the staff rushed us through only giving us about 30 seconds or so for each room. So before you can make out what you're looking at or take a cool photo, the staff barks at you to move along as if you're trespassing on someone's property. The worse part of it is that all of these websites were promoting this exhibit showing the rooms that were part of the L.A. or D.C. exhibitions. Most of those rooms were not a part of the NYC exhibit. In my opinion, those were considerably more impressive and immersive than the rooms in NYC. Also keep in mind that this all the way on the west side between 10th and 11th so it's not the most convenient place to get to. I felt bad for all of the people pulling up in cabs decked out in their best gallery outfits only to be told shortly that the line was already closed. This would have been a much better experience had they charged maybe $5-$10 to cut down on all of the people turning up. It's not a great way to view art.
google avatar

Sharon T.

Yelp
I finally understand the excitement and perseverance you cronut and ramen burger maniacs endure by waiting in line for hours. It's madness, I tell you. I've always been enthralled by the exhibitions David Zwirner has to offer but I am just too lazy to walk to almost the end of the West side. I came here with a friend at around 3:30 p.m. the day before the Yayoi Kusuma exhibit closed and the line went around in front of the gallery. Luckily, while we were at it, we made a few friends on line so they saved our spot while we visited the "Love is Calling" exhibit for 15 minutes, where lines were much smoother. After 3 and a half hours of waiting with the damn sweet aroma from the crepe truck lingering my nose, we finally get in and another line around the gallery. Not a bad thing, considering the paintings of Kusuma were also on display--a great way to keep our minds and frustrations to see the main display. By the time we were only a few steps away from entering the room, the workers assigning different groups of people to sit and slide down felt robotic. Yes, once you step into their gallery, they own you. They kept the timing very precise and wanted to finish as fast as possible--40 seconds per 2 people. Now on to the actual room... It was absolutely gorgeous and the water made the room very calming and peaceful. One thing I didn't like much about it was that the lights were blinking. It was like having a seizure in the universe. Definitely don't use flash as they advise as it will hurt your eyes severely