From William White’s article for art currently:
Showcasing a dynamic group of artists reflecting on the relationship between queer women and the sea, the waterfront home of American Photographer Alice Austen in Staten Island opens She Sells Seashells on September 6, 2025. Curated by writer Gemma Rolls-Bently, the exhibition draws inspiration from Austen and her partner, Gertrude Tate, and the common tongue twister “She Sells Sea Shells” linked to Mary Anning. Together, these references examine the connection between lesbian artists and the ocean, drawing connections from Austen’s homeland and Anning’s British water coast.
The group exhibition includes works of 12 artists including Austen herself. Two stand out pieces include Two Big Oyster Shells, April 30, 1935 photographed by Austen, as well as Toweled Lesbian Kiss Between Cherry Grove & Fire Island Pines, NY, July 1978 by Meryl Meisler