New Yorkers' Anonymous Love Letters Showcased in Exhibit

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A citywide campaign in New York City called the Love Letter Gallery received over 1,000 anonymous love letters this year, which were then placed in red mailboxes inside small businesses across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Thirty of the standout letters - some heartwarming, others heartbreaking - were selected to be featured in a one-day exhibition at a SoHo gallery on February 7th.

Why it matters

The Love Letter Gallery project aims to celebrate love in all its forms and share stories of connection within the New York community. It provides a unique, feel-good outlet for New Yorkers to express their feelings anonymously and have those sentiments showcased in a public exhibit.

The details

The red mailboxes were scattered across Manhattan and Brooklyn, placed in coffee shops, jewelry stores, and specialty shops. The letters were addressed to a range of recipients, from spouses and lovers to doormen and roommates. The exhibit featured 30 standout letters, some heartwarming and others heartbreaking. The project's founder, East Villager Kelsie Hayes, paired the letters with floral arrangements inspired by the words.

• The Love Letter Gallery received over 1,000 notes this year.
• The 30 selected letters were featured in a one-day exhibition on February 7, 2026.

What’s next

The Love Letter Gallery plans to continue the annual tradition of collecting and showcasing anonymous love letters from New Yorkers.