Edges of Ailey

Sept 25, 2024–Feb 9, 2025

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After Ailey

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Alvin Ailey died of AIDS-related complications on December 1, 1989, leaving the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) under the leadership of Judith Jamison, who began dancing with the company in 1965. 

Ailey said of his company: “This is not about Alvin Ailey. It’s about the future, about people going on, it’s about making a place . . . [that] could go on. That’s the high point, when that happens.” Edges of Ailey acts as a vantage point to reflect on this aspiration over thirty-five years later. Ailey—as idea, impetus, and inspiration—lives on through the flourishing dance company, school, and foundation that bear his name. The posters, programs, and ephemera on display in the exhibition offer insights into the company’s rich history and extensive reach. 

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1989 December Artesia CA Memorial Service (cover)

Funeral program for Alvin Ailey, Jr., 1931-1989. Services at First Baptist Church of Artesia, CA, Dec 12, 1989, 7 PM, and Rose Hills Memorial Park, Dec 13, 1989, 10:30 AM.
Funeral program for Alvin Ailey, Jr., 1931-1989. Services at First Baptist Church of Artesia, CA, Dec 12, 1989, 7 PM, and Rose Hills Memorial Park, Dec 13, 1989, 10:30 AM.

1989 December Artesia CA Memorial Service (cover). Courtesy Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation, Inc.

Artists

On the Hour

A 30-second online art project:
Maya Man, A Realistic Day In My Life Living In New York City

Learn more about this project

Learn more at whitney.org/artport

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