If you take a stroll down 14th St. this weekend, be prepared for an unexpected art encounter.

Art in Odd Places (AiOP) presents their fourth consecutive annual showcase: a variety of performances, theatrics, public installations, small and large-scale interventions, and–well–happenings between October 1 and October 10, all on 14th street.

The exhibition, named Rituals, revolves around the ideas of rituals, habits or traditions.

Find performance works and art encounters scattered on 14th Street from the High Line all the way to Avenue A. Some of the projects have specific schedules while others are installations. Check out AiOP’s projects page to decide what you’d like to see and when.

Are you a tech geek like me? If so, grab your smart phone or tablet, scan the QR code (like the one here), and enjoy the self-guided audio tour.

The events kick-off with an opening reception/party this Friday September 30th at Theaterlab (137 W 14th Street) from 6-9pm. It features musical performances and several of the performance art pieces from the Rituals exhibition. In addition to the opening reception there are other special events and tours here.

We plan to have some encounters with art in odd places. Post your pics and stories of AiOP suggestions on our Facebook or Twitter pages!

- Jen Wallace