Avoiding lines and tourists in particular, is a classic New Yorkers’ pastime, more so than actually taking advantage of the world-class cultural activities where those lines and tourists can be found.

With so many options in NYC and our default avoidance tactics, it can be tough to find an activity worth braving the crowds, but Exhibitionism, is a “must visit” nestled far west, just below the district’s southern-most boarder, in the West Village.

This pop-up exhibit immerses visitors into the lives of legendary rock band The Rolling Stones.

The BID sent two of its staff, one a Rolling Stones lover—Katie—and another who appreciates their craft, but doesn’t identify as a Stones fan—Arielle—for an inside look.

“The complete immersion really made me get a feel for who they are and what they represent,” said Arielle. “Laying fresh eyes on The Rolling Stones, their musical process, how they formed as a group, their fashion style, and icon really made me understand how timeless their music is. I get it.”

The exhibit is designed in such a way where audio is clearly the main attraction, but they’ve integrated multiple disciplinary and sensory features to captivate and draw in attendees attention.

You’re immediately eye-level with tens of screen flashing news clips, concert excerpts and crowds of screaming fans within a choppy loop.

Then, fans are then taken through an exact replica of the young singers’ 1964 apartment.

“You become witness to the filth they were subjecting themselves to in their early years,” said Katie. “I’ve seen a few messy rooms before, but nothing like the old splattered eggs, grease-stained pans, plates of old cigarettes, and spots of wallpaper melting off the walls. In a way, while gross, it somewhat humanizes them. It makes me realize and appreciate that The Rolling Stones didn’t come from perfection and, instead are a group that didn’t begin caring about ‘things.’ It was their passionate obsession that fueled their drive.”

As guests meander through the various rooms at Exhibitionism, they’re given the opportunity to re-master tracks on iPads, walk past used guitars, read through journal entries, and learn about the ideation of the group’s “anti-authority” logo.

The influence of the group’s innate rebellion against traditional culture, politics, and sex that is apparent in much of the artwork displayed.

The Stones have stayed relevant by modernizing old tracks with new electronics and yet still embrace the integral classic tone of their music that made them famous.

We walked away with a deep sense of the timeless nature of the band, and their imprint on modern culture.

Exhibitionism: The Rolling Stones is open now – March 12th

775 Washington Street

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