Woody Guthrie's Protest Anthems Resonate with Today's Youth at NYU Exhibition
‘You are the machine that kills hate’: Woody Guthrie’s protest anthems strike a chord with a new generation
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
A new exhibition at New York University's Clive Davis Institute showcases Woody Guthrie's enduring impact on protest music. Curated by students, it features a recreation of Guthrie's workspace and highlights his relevance to contemporary political issues, emphasizing the spirit of creative resistance.
- 01The exhibition, titled 'Woody Guthrie: What This Guitar Might Do', features a recreation of Guthrie's Coney Island apartment.
- 02Over 130 archival materials showcase Guthrie's political engagement and creativity.
- 03The exhibition emphasizes the continuity of protest music from Guthrie to contemporary artists like Bad Bunny.
- 04Nora Guthrie, Woody's daughter, highlights the joyful nature of her father's music amidst serious themes.
- 05The exhibit reflects current political climates and student activism at NYU.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The exhibition 'Woody Guthrie: What This Guitar Might Do' at New York University's Clive Davis Institute celebrates the legacy of folk singer Woody Guthrie, whose protest music remains relevant today. Curated by students, the exhibit recreates Guthrie's apartment on Mermaid Avenue in Coney Island, featuring three guitars, two accordions, and over 130 archival materials from the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Visitors are encouraged to engage creatively with the space, reflecting Guthrie's playful spirit. The exhibit connects Guthrie's work to modern protest music, showcasing artists like Bad Bunny and Bruce Springsteen, emphasizing the ongoing tradition of creative resistance. Nora Guthrie, Woody's daughter, notes the joyous nature of her father's music, contrasting it with the seriousness often associated with protest songs. The exhibit also addresses the current political climate at NYU, where student activism faces challenges, highlighting the importance of creative expression in resistance against oppression.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The exhibition encourages students and visitors to engage with political themes through art, fostering a sense of community and activism.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you believe protest music can influence social change?
Connecting to poll...
More about New York University
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





