Please join in opening the AiOP 2026: UTOPIAS festival with a blessing performed by Nicolás Dumit Estévez Raful Espejo Ovalles Morel Atrib

Nicolás dedicates this to Linda Mary Montano

"Right when clocks in New York City mark 12:01 AM on September 26, 2026, I, Nicolás, convene with a small cadre at a public yet clandestine location on 14th Street in Manhattan, to bestow a blessing on Art in Odd Places (AiOP). This is meant to be the very first gesture for the 2026 Festival, hence releasing a spiritual and energetic reverberation throughout two unfolding days of actions in our streets.

With Art in All Places / A Blessing, I rely on my own understanding of art as an inextricable part of the mystery called Life, as well as from my personal proposition that utopias at this moment in USA history can serve as a locus where to experiment with freedom in the midst of rampant repression. Also, with the fact that not everything needs to be made visible, and that there can be power in that which remains concealed. Our gathering unravels at the threshold of the late-night and early-morning, hence tracing a circular path that goes back to those courageous artists who have dared to engage spirituality in the arts for decades.

Those wishing to attend in person, must RSVP by September 24, 11:59 PM, and will be guided to meet me, Nicolás, outside a specific location the actual day of the gathering. No exact location will be disclosed and I, Nicolás, will guide you to our secret destination. Those willing to attend in spirit will need to RSVP using a separate link, and they will receive some suggestions as to how to engage from wherever they are, mentally-spiritually-emotionally."

Other than an audio to be produced by AiOP, there is absolutely no other filming, photographing or audio-recording permitted.

RSVP required

Image: Nicolás Dumit Estévez Raful Espejo Ovalles Morel Atrib, Pilgrimage to the White Cliffs in Dover, 2026, Great Britain / Kyri Williams lifting Nicolás’ capes during pilgrimage / Organized by Dr. Luke Dixon and Bee Friendly Trust / Photo (detail): Ben Carroll

Art in All Places ©2026 Nicolás Dumit Estévez Raful

Description supplied by the event organiser.