NYC NOW Arts & Culture Check In: Bronx Art, Grammy Buzz, and Great Chinese Food
Jan 26, 2026
Matthew Schnipper, arts and culture editor at WNYC and Gothamist, gives a lively tour of NYC culture. He breaks down Mayor Mamdani’s pop-culture name‑drops. He shares concert picks and why seeing local music matters. He spotlights the Bronx Biennial’s AIM program. He flags Gotham Book Prize finalists, Grammy nods with New York ties, and standout Chinese food in Long Island City.
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Pop Culture Signals Governance Style
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani frequently uses pop-culture name-drops to signal governing style and connect with voters.
- Matthew Schnipper sees the references as charming but sometimes forced and revealing of audience targeting.
Use Monthly Concert Picks To Choose Shows
- Check Gothamist's new monthly concert listing for curated picks and local shows to attend.
- Matthew Schnipper recommends seeing Sheer Mag, Real Young and Lazy Horse, and ESG for distinct live experiences.
Bronx Biennial Spotlight On Artist Survival
- The Bronx Biennial highlights artists who've completed the Bronx Museum's AIM program focused on survival skills and market readiness.
- Schnipper views that support as crucial because practical skills enable artists to keep making work in an expensive city.
