Title: Inside the Secret World of New York City’s Lesbian and Bisexual Backgammon League
In the bustling metropolis of New York City, where urban legends abound, there is one hidden gem that has been quietly gaining popularity among the city’s creative elite – the Lesbian and Bisexual Backgammon League (L.B.B.L.).
The league, formed in 2017 by Ellen Swieskowski and Hester Hodde, has become a gathering place for artists, art-world figures, start-up founders, architects, and other creative individuals. What started as a fun and jokey idea to bring people together has now turned into a biannual event that attracts a diverse crowd of players.
The recent tournament, held at the contemporary art gallery Bortolami in TriBeCa, saw a mix of women, men, and nonbinary folks rolling dice and sipping wine as they competed in the ancient game of backgammon. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing in the background and players strategizing their moves.
Despite its name, the league is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation. To enter the tournament, all you need is an invitation from someone in the group and $30. The game itself is a mix of luck and skill, making it accessible to newcomers and seasoned players alike.
The tournament came down to four finalists, including venture capital investor Nicole Ripka, architect Koray Duman, and league founders Swieskowski and Hodde. In a surprising turn of events, Duman emerged as the winner, promising to share his winnings with his fellow players.
The venue, hosted at Bortolami’s gallery, provided a sophisticated setting for the tournament, a far cry from the league’s humble beginnings at an East Village dive bar. Food and drinks were plentiful, with mezcal, natural wine, and tapas from a local restaurant keeping players fueled throughout the evening.
As the tournament came to a close, co-organizer Ellie Rines reflected on the appeal of backgammon to the art world. She likened the game to art dealing, citing its elements of risk, placement, and projection into the unknown future. For the players of the L.B.B.L., backgammon is not just a game – it’s a way to connect, socialize, and have a little fun in the competitive world of the art scene.
The Lesbian and Bisexual Backgammon League may be one of New York City’s best-kept secrets, but for those in the know, it’s a vibrant and inclusive community where creativity and camaraderie come together over a game of dice and strategy.
