About
Patty Chang, Pat Oleszko and 13 more artists probe labor, from robotic to domestic, in Smack Mellon's 30th-anniversary show in DUMBO.
For three decades Smack Mellon has given artists studios and exhibition space in DUMBO, and its anniversary show turns that history into a look at labor itself: bodily, robotic, artistic, domestic, transactional and political. The lineup includes Patty Chang, Pat Oleszko, Ward Shelley and Lucia Reissig, whose five-year archive of hand-sewn rags anchors the room. If you are in DUMBO for the waterfront, step inside for the neighborhood's art history.
What to expect
Expect a large, varied group show in Smack Mellon's industrial gallery, mixing sculpture, textile, video and archival material. Public programs accompany the exhibition, and the Brooklyn Bridge Park waterfront is steps away.
Good to know
- Smack Mellon is at 92 Plymouth Street in DUMBO
- The F at York Street and the A/C at High Street are nearest
- Combine with a walk in Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Curated by Rachel Vera Steinberg
Common questions
When is How We Work on view?
The exhibition runs from Saturday, September 19 through Sunday, December 6, 2026.
What are the gallery hours, and is admission free?
Smack Mellon is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6pm, and general admission is free.
What does the exhibition explore?
The anniversary exhibition examines bodily, robotic, artistic, domestic, transactional and political labor through artworks and archival material connected to Smack Mellon’s first 30 years.
Which artists are represented?
The group includes Patty Chang, Pat Oleszko, Lucia Reissig, Ward Shelley, Asia Stewart and ten other participating artists or collectives.
Are public programs planned during the exhibition?
Yes. Smack Mellon says the run will include performances by exhibiting artists Kyoung Eun Kang and Asia Stewart, with additional programs to be announced.
Is the gallery accessible?
The entrance is at ground level, a wheelchair lift serves the upper gallery and lower studios, and service dogs are welcome throughout the building.