Stories

This March, queer African American artist Jacolby Satterwhite debuted his groundbreaking visual album *En Plein Air: Music of Objective Romance* at SFMOMA, merging live performance, music, and virtual reality to craft an immersive Afrofuturist universe. Through provocative projections depicting cyber queer encounters and an electrifying live show blending DJing, voguing, and digital avatars, Satterwhite challenges and reclaims histories of black and queer identity. His work navigates the tensions between utopian futures and the weight of diasporic trauma, transforming symbols of oppression into tools of pleasure and empowerment. Rooted in personal memory and layered with archival sounds from his mother’s a cappella recordings, Satterwhite’s ambitious performance reimagines virtual reality not as a naive escape, but as a complex, radical space where black queer bodies assert control, gaze back, and transcend conventional narratives.

Tel Aviv, a vibrant city born from desert sands and rich with Bauhaus architectural heritage, has rapidly evolved into a dynamic hub for contemporary art, especially photography. Rooted in a complex geopolitical landscape and a crossroads of diverse cultures, the city nurtures a unique blend of photojournalism and fine art, where identity and political narratives intertwine with a cool Mediterranean sensibility. The ten featured Tel Aviv-based artists showcase a range of innovative approaches—from Ilit Azoulay’s meticulous reconstructions of demolished spaces, Barry Frydlender’s politically charged panoramas, and Miki Kratsman’s humanist photojournalism, to Sigalit Landau’s powerful installations and Adi Nes’s provocative explorations of masculinity and vulnerability. Together, they reflect Tel Aviv’s compelling artistic spirit, marked by thoughtful engagement with history, place, and social issues.

Polish-born, Los Angeles-based artist Karolina Maszkiewicz masterfully blends high art and design to create playful, chic sculptures perfect for both galleries and homes. Her kinetic sculpture, Besos, offers an accessible alternative to costly Modernist mobiles, capturing the spirit of artists like Alexander Calder while reviving the Bauhaus tradition of combining art with function. Trained under renowned sculptor Brad Howe, Maszkiewicz’s work features elegant natural forms—like human lips—bringing beauty and whimsy into intimate spaces without the need for grand settings. Beyond wire mobiles, she is also recognized for her innovative hanging plant sculptures, making her creations stylish staples for contemporary interiors.

In anticipation of his third solo show at Sperone Westwater, Andrew Sendor offers a compelling glimpse into his Brooklyn studio where his intricate, multi-layered work comes to life. Blending painting, sculpture, photography, and audio narration, Sendor weaves a fragmented narrative around "Saturday’s Ascent," a novella-like tale of a horse-trainer’s mysterious disappearance in Greenland. His pieces, which he views as sculptural objects rather than mere paintings, invite viewers to engage actively, piecing together stories and imbuing images with personal meaning. With technical precision honed during his time in Jeff Koons’s studio, Sendor continues to challenge traditional storytelling through his unique fusion of media, creating an experience that is as enigmatic as it is immersive.

The Whitney Museum’s 2017 Biennial boldly showcased the rising influence of virtual reality in contemporary art, notably through Jordan Wolfson’s controversial Real Violence, a VR experience that forces viewers into an unsettling confrontation with simulated brutality. While critics have debated its impact, the piece highlights VR’s unique capacity to immerse audiences viscerally, challenging detached consumption of media violence. This moment marks VR’s growing institutional acceptance, amid a broader digital art evolution that traces back to conceptual algorithmic art of the 1960s. Wolf Lieser, founder of the Digital Art Museum, reflects on how digital art has transitioned from revolutionary programmatic experiments to tools widely adopted by artists today, noting parallels with earlier media like net art and photography. As VR technology matures, artists are beginning to explore its immersive potential beyond novelty, crafting works that interrogate perception, presence, and the blending of real and virtual spaces. Lieser emphasizes the vital role of artists in critically engaging with digital tools and corporate digital infrastructures, ensuring that new media remains a space for creative reflection on technological and societal realities, even as its hype eventually wanes.

Magnolia Pictures has released a compelling trailer for *BURDEN*, the first feature documentary exploring the life and groundbreaking work of artist Chris Burden. Known for his intense and often dangerous performance art in the early ’70s—ranging from being shot to crucifixion—Burden later reinvented himself through innovative sculptures like the iconic *Urban Light* at LACMA. This film offers unprecedented access to his personal archives, studio, and reflections, presenting a nuanced portrait of the man behind the myth. Directed by Timothy Marrinan and Richard Dewey, *BURDEN* combines archival footage, personal recordings, and interviews to illuminate the complex figure who deeply influenced a generation of artists. The documentary hits theaters May 5th—don’t miss this intimate look at a true art legend.

In this insightful interview, Lorna Simpson reflects on her artistic journey navigating race, gender, and representation, responding to the expectations placed on black artists to portray an "essential black identity." Moving away from direct depictions of the body in the late 1980s due to personal loss and a desire to unsettle viewers' assumptions, Simpson’s work balances absence and presence, often obscuring faces to challenge stereotypical readings. She discusses the persistent racialized interpretations of her figures despite her utopian hope for a future beyond such categorizations. Through evolving mediums—from staged photography to film—Simpson continues to explore artifice, identity, and visibility, critically engaging with feminist discourse while maintaining an independent, nuanced stance. Her recent projects revisit historical portrayals of black bodies with a keen awareness of their fraught visibility, underscoring the ongoing struggle for representation in art and culture.

From emerging talents like 26-year-old Julien Nguyen, whose fantastical paintings blend Renaissance architecture with futuristic themes, to seasoned legends like 94-year-old Beverly Pepper, whose monumental metal sculptures are finally gaining wider recognition, this vibrant lineup of artists is captivating the art world this March. Highlights include the collaborative post-Stalinist works of Emilia and Ilya Kabakov, Zohra Opoku’s evocative silkscreen canvases exploring her German-Ghanaian heritage, and Kohei Yoshiuki’s provocative 1971 photographic series revealing Tokyo’s clandestine encounters. Meanwhile, Doug Aitken’s mirrored desert installation transforms architecture into poetic experience, Lygia Pape revolutionizes geometric abstraction with Neo-Concrete expression, and Aidan Koch’s minimalist comics strip narrative to its emotional core. From daring exhibitions at prestigious venues like the Whitney, Met Breuer, and Kayne Griffin Corcoran to groundbreaking group shows in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Berlin, these artists are shaping conversations about identity, intimacy, and innovation in contemporary art.

For art enthusiasts navigating the aftermath of Armory Week, this curated selection offers a blend of irresistible steals and coveted splurges. Discover David Shrigley’s witty ink on paper piece, a unique and affordable gem, alongside Carroll Dunham’s playful yet sophisticated etching. For a profound political reflection, Jenny Holzer’s steel plaque challenges viewers to examine their own beliefs, while Jeff Koons’ charming Puppy Vase brings playful elegance to any space. Lorna Simpson’s powerful photograph explores identity with quiet grace, and Al Held’s rare India ink drawing marks a bold step in Abstract Expressionism, making each piece a valuable addition to any contemporary collection. Whether you’re looking to invest or indulge, these artworks embody the vibrant pulse of modern art with personalities as diverse as the artists themselves.

Puppies Puppies, an elusive artist known for adopting playful aliases and maintaining anonymity, captivates audiences with immersive installations featuring ubiquitous Purell dispensers. Their work, including the piece "Untitled," invites interaction, transforming the everyday act of hand sanitizing into art—a clever twist on Marcel Duchamp's idea of the readymade by keeping function intact. As a featured artist in this year’s Whitney Biennial, Puppies Puppies continues to intrigue and challenge conventions, blending humor, mystery, and tactile engagement in a unique artistic signature.

NADA New York has relocated to West SoHo's Skylight Clarkson North building and moved its schedule to March to coincide with Armory Week, spotlighting top emerging and mid-career artists. The fair features compelling works like Athena Papadopoulos’s tactile fur coat blending softness with darker themes of fetishization and identity; John Edmonds’s poignant silk du-rag portraits exploring "soft masculinity" within African-American culture; and Willie Wayne Smith’s multilayered paintings evoking fragmented memories from a conservative upbringing. AES+F’s immersive, surreal video installation challenges perceptions with high-definition, fantastical imagery, while Michael Assiff’s rotating exhibition focuses on environmental injustices through vibrant botanical paintings. Sydney Shen brings humor and nostalgia with her bread-turned-clocks, and Bridget Mullen captivates with textured, abstracted figures. Zach Nader transforms online ads into hauntingly stripped-down images, Fred Lonidier addresses the political realities of labor under NAFTA, and Rose Marcus’s transparent photographic prints capture fleeting moments within iconic New York City landmarks. Together, these artists define NADA’s innovative and socially engaged spirit.

The Armory Show continues to captivate with its stunning visual displays, but this year, it goes deeper by spotlighting artworks that confront pressing social and political issues. From Brandon Lattu’s meditation on obsolete technology and our shifting realities, to Teresa Margolles’s poignant tribute to a transgender victim of violence, the fair presents a powerful dialogue about identity, resistance, and memory. Amna Asghar challenges cultural stereotypes through layered narratives, while Daniel Joseph Martinez’s riot shields evoke ongoing struggles for justice. Koki Tanaka’s workshop blends history and youth reflections on war, and Iván Navarro’s neon-lit drums echo the haunting tactics of dictatorship. Mathilde Rosier’s hypnotic dance video reimagines modernism through African artistry, and Zohra Opoku weaves personal and cultural histories into fabric. Finally, Jerémie Mabiala and Djonga Bismar’s chocolate sculpture offers a striking commentary on exploitation and reclamation. Together, these works at the Armory Show ensure art remains a vital lens for understanding our complex, unsettling times.

This year’s Armory Show in New York highlights a fascinating array of sculptural and three-dimensional works that challenge the often painting-focused narrative of the fair. Among them, the Congolese Plantation Workers Art League uses chocolate sculptures to confront colonialism and global trade, reinvesting profits to reclaim their land. Miguel Angel Ríos’ 1990s “Border Art” pieces continue to resonate, critiquing war and cultural imperialism through FedEx box mosaics. Glenn Akira Kaino’s fiery installation REBIS powerfully interrogates the death of protest culture and revolutionary slogans in a world saturated by spectacle and capitalism. Meanwhile, Jose Dávila’s precarious “Joint Effort” sculptures question modernist architectural legacies with a witty nod to Abstract Expressionism. Finally, Sadaharu Horio’s whimsical $1 Art Vending Machine confronts the commercialization and exoticization of art, offering an ironic critique of Western elite consumption and the fetishization of cultural labor. Together, these works push the boundaries of the Armory’s modernist roots, offering fresh and critical perspectives on art, politics, and society.

Copenhagen has emerged as a vibrant hub for contemporary art, evolving from its post-war avant-garde roots to embrace innovative experimental spaces, galleries, and fairs that spotlight both local and international talent. The city’s art scene is dynamically supported by institutions like the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, nurturing a new generation of boundary-pushing artists. Among the notable figures are Theis Wendt, whose digital landscapes explore the fragile intersection of nature and technology; Silas Inoue, whose eclectic works blend performance and living paintings; and Jesper Just, known for film installations that challenge identity and national narratives. Sculptor Jeppe Hein reinvents minimalism with interactive pieces that engage audiences, while Gudrun Hasle brings a critical feminist perspective infused with disability discourse. Photographer Andreas Albrectsen personalizes conceptual appropriation, and Henrik Plenge Jakobsen critiques spectacle culture through immersive public interventions. Together, these artists illustrate Copenhagen’s dynamic role at the forefront of contemporary art innovation.

Armory Week in New York City brings a whirlwind of art fairs where insider jargon flows as freely as the cocktails, leaving many puzzled by the art world's unique language. To help decode this cultural babel, frieze magazine co-editors Dan Fox and Jennifer Higgie present 43 essential contemporary art terms, blending wit and insight to reveal the often baffling meanings behind words like “Emerging,” “Concept,” “Hegemony,” and “Postmodernism.” From Marxist musings to the quirks of media and the elusive nature of “Practice,” their spirited definitions expose the art scene’s eccentricities and contradictions, making this a must-read guide for anyone navigating the cryptic conversations of the art fair circuit.

Matthew Higgs, a visionary curator and artist, has championed emerging talents since the '90s, expanding the British art narrative beyond the Young British Artists label. Now director of New York’s White Columns, Higgs highlights standout works from NADA's upcoming art fair, showcasing a diverse roster including Anne Collier’s evocative photographs, Alan Constable’s remarkable ceramic camera sculptures, and Beau Dick’s innovative fusion of traditional First Nation artistry with contemporary forms. From Mary Heilmann’s elegantly comfortable chairs to Tabboo!’s powerful political paintings and the late Alan Vega’s provocative art, Higgs offers a compelling glimpse into the vibrant contemporary art scene, underscoring the importance of supporting alternative voices and spaces.

Julie Houts, a J. Crew designer living the chic NYC lifestyle, captures her sharp wit and raw honesty through playful, affordable prints that blend high fashion sketch aesthetics with candid, relatable moments. From the absurdities of managing expenses amid indulgent Ubers and cocktails to the irony of looking polished while feeling like a “real asshole,” her work humorously explores everyday anxieties, quirks, and pleasures—like the joy of pasta or the odd comfort of snake holes. Whether confessing to perpetual fibs about cab rides or questioning the existential nature of work and sitting, Houts’ unapologetically real self-portraits resonate with anyone navigating life’s contradictions with style and humor.

Californian artist Raymond Pettibon, known for creating up to twenty thousand drawings since 1978, is celebrated in the New Museum's largest-ever retrospective, "Raymond Pettibon: A Pen of All Work." His intricate works blend hand-lettered texts from literary giants like John Dryden with evocative imagery that challenges viewers to engage deeply and uncover meaning over time. Pettibon’s art intertwines themes of American culture, spirituality, personal memoir, and pop iconography—from Superman to Vavoom—elevating these figures beyond nostalgia to symbols of deeper societal traumas and histories. Understanding Pettibon’s work requires patience and active interpretation, revealing a rich, multifaceted exploration of identity, culture, and storytelling.

In a powerful protest against the U.S. travel ban, the Davis Museum at Wellesley College will remove or cover approximately 20 percent of its permanent collection—works created or donated by immigrants—highlighting the profound impact immigration has had on American art institutions. This striking gesture, called "Art-Less," will see nearly 120 pieces by immigrant artists like Willem de Kooning, Ana Mendieta, and Louise Nevelson taken off display, with entire galleries, especially those featuring African art donated by immigrant families, shrouded in black cloth. Museum director Lisa Fischman hopes this visual absence will vividly convey how integral immigrants have been to the cultural fabric of the museum and prompt visitors to reflect on the broader societal consequences of the ban at a time when cultural exchange is more vital than ever.

Yayoi Kusama, a groundbreaking Japanese artist renowned for her vibrant polka dots and immersive installations, has captivated collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike with her iconic pumpkin motifs. Emerging as a radical feminist figure in the 1960s New York avant-garde scene, Kusama’s work blends natural organic forms with psychedelic patterns, creating a unique commentary on the uncanny nature of the natural world in modern culture. Despite her large-scale installations being largely uncollectable, Kusama’s smaller sculptures, like her sought-after pumpkins, offer an accessible entry point for collectors. Her influence extends beyond art into fashion, inspiring whimsical collaborations such as her partnership with Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton. Kusama’s enduring legacy, marked by her resilient return to art after decades of personal challenges, continues to shine in exhibitions like “Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Rooms” at the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum.

Anton Ginzburg’s latest exhibition, “The Blue Flame: Constructions and Initiatives,” delves into the utopian dreams and ideological fervor of the Soviet art school VKhUTEMAS, a radical counterpart to the Bauhaus that championed constructivism as a revolutionary language for a new communist reality. Revisiting this avant-garde heritage through a personal experimental residency in the Canadian Rockies, Ginzburg immersed himself in the school’s rigorous curriculum—producing wooden spatial models he subsequently burned to evoke both destruction and liberation, alongside bold graphic posters linking history, modernism, and his own biography. His film “Turo” explores iconic constructivist architecture, blending actual sites and virtual landscapes to reflect on the universalist ambitions of early 20th-century modernism now confronted by today’s fragmented political and cultural realities. Against the backdrop of a world where universalism is crumbling amid resurgent nationalism and digital echo chambers, Ginzburg’s work challenges us to rethink how art can still inspire a collective human experience beyond ideology and consumerist spectacle.

Hans Haacke, a pioneering artist known for his incisive institutional critique, reflects on the enduring tensions between art, politics, and corporate influence. Drawing from his long career, Haacke discusses the challenges posed by censorship, political interference—such as New York’s 1999 assault on free expression—and the increasingly pervasive role of corporate sponsorship in shaping museum content. His works, often site-specific, challenge viewers to confront the social, political, and economic contexts embedded within cultural institutions. From the physical disruption of marble floors in Venice to the symbolic soil installation in Berlin’s Reichstag, Haacke’s art provokes critical dialogue about history, citizenship, and democracy, underscoring how artworks serve as tools for societal reflection and change amid shifting political landscapes.

Mexico-based artist Eduardo Sarabia, known for his satirical exploration of the complex and often dark realities of the Mexico-US border, shares his perspective on selected works from Mexico City’s Material Art Fair. Born in L.A. to Mexican immigrant parents and now based in Guadalajara, Sarabia offers a unique, humorous lens on themes of drug trafficking, surveillance, and immigration politics that define border culture. Among his highlighted favorites are Claire Milbrath’s imaginative jungle landscapes, Victory Rometti and Julia Costales’ mysterious and heavy sculptural forms, and David Leggett’s darkly humorous pieces. Through these selections, Sarabia reveals a vibrant conversation between artists capturing the blend of reality and fantasy in contemporary post-colonial narratives.

Guadalajara-based artist Jose Dávila, originally trained as an architect, approaches his work with the curiosity of an archaeologist, exploring the unrealized utopian ideals of modernist architecture and offering fresh perspectives on Latin American modernism beyond traditional Minimalism. As the recipient of the ArtNexus Latin America Art Award, Dávila shares his insights on standout works and artists featured at Mexico City’s Material Art Fair, highlighting the witty conceptual humor of Mario García Torres, the poetic imagery of Brigit Mergle, the geometric finesse of Mateo Zúñiga, the enigmatic presence in Candice Lin’s sculptures, and the architectural transparency in José León Cerrillo’s spatial explorations. He also notes Eduardo Sarabia’s unique fusion of handcrafted pottery and trade values, along with B. Wurtz’s delicate sculptures that transform everyday surroundings into profound artistic statements.

Guatemala City-based artist Stefan Benchaom, known for blurring the lines between artist, curator, and educator, reflects on compelling works showcased at the Material Art Fair in Mexico City. From Geraldo De Barros’s innovative “Sobras” series, where he transformed his photographic archive into a new visual language despite physical limitations, to the poetic landscapes of young Colombian Mateo Zúñiga, each piece reveals unique stories and emotions. Darby Milbrath’s painting captures a tense, unfolding scene with mysterious gazes, while Alex Becerra’s black squid ink drawing channels a wild, expressive spirit reminiscent of art brut legends. Elsa-Louise Manceaux’s egg-tempera and colored pencil works exude a hypnotic quality, inviting quiet, deep contemplation—offering a provocative contrast to their provocatively titled composition, *Going to the Party Knowing We’re All Going to Hell*. This diverse collection highlights fresh artistic voices pushing boundaries with bold creativity and introspection.

Susan and Michael Hort, renowned New York art patrons and philanthropists, share their standout picks from Art Los Angeles Contemporary and the Rema Hort Mann Foundation benefit at Mihai Nicodim Gallery. They highlight a dynamic range of artists, from Claire Tabouret’s hauntingly beautiful paintings at Lyles & King to Jesse Willenbring’s masterful use of color at Bernard Ceysson Gallery. They praise Jane Corrigan’s engaging figurative works at Marinaro Gallery and Alex Kroll’s unique abstract paintings at Praz-Delallade, noting his charming family moments. Karl Haendel’s photo-realistic and increasingly political drawings, Matthais Dornfeld’s vivid, Halloween-inspired masks, and Brendan Fowler’s evolving embroidered portraits also catch their eye. Michael Bauer’s abstract pieces reveal hidden figuration, while Lionel Sabatté’s innovative sculptures from unconventional materials offer a fresh voice gaining recognition beyond Europe. Through their personal insights, the Horts illuminate a vibrant and evolving art scene full of creativity and depth.

Mexico City has long been a vibrant hub for Latin American creativity, home to legends like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, but recent years have seen it emerge as a global hotspot for contemporary art, fueled by influential fairs such as Zona Maco and Material Art Fair. This thriving scene attracts a diverse mix of homegrown talent and international artists, including Parisian sculptor Théo Mercier, whose playful and macabre works captivate audiences; Pia Camil, who blends local motifs with Modernist influences in collaborative installations; and Natalia Ibáñez Lario, who critiques beauty standards through multimedia performances. Other notable figures include American surrealist Kcirred Reswob, tattoo artist Dr Lakra with his provocative mixed media, and Chicago transplant Chelsea Culprit, whose work explores themes around sex work and femininity. Mexican-born José León Cerrillo engages with Modernist ideals in his minimalist steel sculptures, while Andrew Birk’s graffiti-inspired paintings reflect the city's gritty energy. Together, these artists reflect the dynamic, multinational spirit of Mexico City's contemporary art scene.

Mexico City's vibrant contemporary art scene is flourishing, fueled by artist-run galleries, innovative spaces, and influential programs like SOMA. Highlighting three rising stars—Abraham Cruzvillegas, Gabriel Kuri, and Damián Ortega—this article explores their distinctive approaches to sculpture and installation art. Cruzvillegas blends traditional craft with readymade objects, infusing his work with autobiographical and political commentary, while Kuri reimagines commercial products to critique cultural and economic exchanges. Ortega’s work draws on abstract geometry and urban forms, merging photography and sculpture with a poetic exploration of order, chance, and violence. Together, these artists redefine Mexican contemporary art through inventive materials, compelling narratives, and a deep engagement with society.

As the world navigates a turbulent future marked by political upheaval, three contemporary sculptors from Phaidon's Vitamin 3D—Berlinde De Bruyckere, Urs Fischer, and Kris Martin—explore themes of time, memory, death, and spirituality through their evocative figurative works. De Bruyckere’s haunting sculptures capture fragmented, suffering bodies, blending baroque intensity with tender "re-membering," while Fischer’s playful manipulation of scale and vanitas symbolism invites us to reflect on life’s transience through surreal installations. Martin, deeply rooted in European history and Christian faith, challenges notions of perfection and continuity by reconstructing broken artifacts and engaging with profound literary and spiritual themes. Together, their art offers a powerful meditation on decay, resilience, and the enduring human spirit amid societal transformation.

“Puertos Ricos: A Festival of Arts and Natures” unfolded as a deeply immersive celebration blending art, ritual, and Puerto Rican cultural history amid the stunning El Yunque rainforest. Co-organized by Klaus Biesenbach, Marina Reyes Franco, and Armig Santos, the festival’s highlight was Papo Colo’s evocative Procesión Migración—a symbolic, multi-hour procession along a rainforest highway involving actors, musicians, and participants carrying hand luggage and wearing black-and-white, embodying the journey of Puerto Rican migrants. The experience culminated in a river ritual marking Papo’s vow of silence and artistic retreat into the jungle. Complementing this were extraordinary installations like Jennifer Allora and Guillermo Calzadilla’s neon-lit cave artwork and a vibrant night of performances and gallery openings in Santurce, honoring Colo’s legacy and the island’s complex identity. The festival closed on a poignant note as Papo disappeared into the rainforest under a sudden downpour—an emblematic moment of myth and transformation.

In its 26th edition, photo l.a. offered a diverse yet uneven glimpse into contemporary photographic practice, with a notable focus on Hollywood portraiture. The event was enlivened by Penelope Umbrico’s captivating installation exploring photography’s functional role on social media, alongside insightful discussions with photographer Lucas Blalock that broadened the conversation around the current photographic landscape. Standout works included Steve Schapiro’s poignant civil rights imagery, Philippe Halsman’s 1952 surreal Marilyn-Mao composite, Andy Mattern’s nostalgic cardboard box series referencing analog photography, Mary Pinto’s innovative photograms that challenge traditional photographic forms, and Joann Callis’s enigmatic and erotically charged 1977 portraits that evoke film noir and fashion photography’s complex emotions. Together, these works highlighted photography’s rich history and evolving boundaries.

Yin Xiuzhen, one of China’s preeminent contemporary artists, masterfully navigates the tensions between tradition and modernity, individual and collective memory, and environmental decay amid rapid urbanization. Drawing from personal and societal upheavals—from Beijing’s relentless demolition and reconstruction to the cultural shifts wrought by globalization—she transforms everyday materials like worn clothing, concrete, and found objects into poignant installations and sculptures. Her work reflects on themes of memory, identity, environmental crisis, and the fractured nature of community in an era defined by speed, displacement, and consumerism. Through projects like the "Portable Cities" suitcases and politically charged pieces addressing terrorism and social alienation, Yin captures the complex interplay between personal histories and the broader forces reshaping China and the world, inviting viewers to reflect on the fragile connections between home, culture, and the relentless march of progress.

Sandro Botticelli, famed for masterpieces like *The Birth of Venus* and *Primavera*, reveals a far richer and more complex artistic legacy beyond these iconic works. Exploring his lesser-known paintings, from the *Seven Virtues* series and *The Adoration of the Magi* featuring Medici portraits, to enigmatic allegories such as *Pallas and the Centaur*, his art is steeped in symbolism, myth, and subtle references to Florentine politics and spirituality. Botticelli’s later works, such as the *Mystic Nativity* and *Mystic Crucifixion*, reflect his engagement with apocalyptic themes influenced by the religious turmoil and the fiery sermons of Girolamo Savonarola. Through portraits, frescoes, and even illustrations for Dante’s *Divine Comedy*, Botticelli’s unique vision illuminates the spiritual, political, and mystical fabric of Renaissance Florence in a truly compelling way.

As the new year begins, it's the perfect moment to fall in love with extraordinary art, whether you're hunting for an accessible steal or a splurge-worthy investment. From Cy Twombly’s emotive 1986 lithograph that turns scribbles into timeless poetry, to Tauba Auerbach’s technically dazzling moiré print recognized by Norwegian royalty, these six remarkable pieces promise to captivate. Dive into Harold Ancart’s quasi-abstract tropical scenes that have won the hearts of top collectors, or Peter Blake’s nostalgic Pop art on recycled tinplate that echoes iconic motifs. Discover the raw, rebellious energy of Karel Appel’s CoBrA masterpiece, or the audacious mixed-media work of Alan Shields, whose crafty approach continues to stir excitement after his untimely passing. Whether modestly priced or boldly statement-making, these artworks invite you to start your year with inspiration and bold aesthetic choices.

Vincent van Gogh’s legacy extends far beyond the well-known tales of his tumultuous life and iconic works like *Starry Night*. Delving into his lesser-known masterpieces reveals a fascinating journey of artistic exploration and innovation during his brief but prolific career. From poignant portraits like *Père Tanguy* and the evocative *La Berceuse* to vibrant still lifes and landscapes such as *The Sower* and *View of Arles with Orchards*, his work reflects a deep engagement with color theory, Japanese art, and rural symbolism. Van Gogh’s relationship with contemporaries like Gauguin inspired meaningful yet conflicted artistic exchanges, while his time at Saint-Rémy brought profound introspection visible in powerful portraits and dynamic compositions. These ten hidden gems encapsulate van Gogh’s relentless quest to capture truth, life, and modernity through a bold, emotional lens that continues to captivate and inspire.

This month’s vibrant art scene showcases a dynamic roster of exhibitions featuring visionary artists pushing boundaries across media and themes. Turkish artist Halil Altindere returns with a powerful new body of work blending political urgency and pop culture, while Erwin Wurm’s iconic sculptures continue to spark playful yet profound conversations about modern life. Feminist and queer perspectives shine through A.K. Burns’ immersive installations at the New Museum, and Gladys Nilsson’s late watercolors offer fresh insights into American society. Trevor Paglen confronts the hidden mechanisms of surveillance in a groundbreaking SF performance, as Julia Wachtel’s revisited 1980s paintings resonate with contemporary relevance. Lee Bul’s provocative installations explore humanity’s techno-political future, John Armleder’s eclectic oeuvre inspires across generations, and late pioneers Hollis Frampton and Jimmy DeSana receive overdue recognition through rare screenings and exhibitions. Together, these shows create a compelling snapshot of art's power to challenge, engage, and inspire in today’s complex world.

California’s vibrant art scene continues to thrive through the groundbreaking work of mid-career artists like Ruben Ochoa, Trisha Donnelly, and Eric Wesley, whose diverse practices challenge conventional boundaries and explore complex social, spatial, and cultural themes. Ochoa’s innovative installations transform urban infrastructure into profound reflections on mobility, community, and economic division, while Donnelly’s elusive, multimedia works resist easy interpretation, creating immersive environments that evoke metaphysical experiences and heighten awareness of space and presence. Meanwhile, Wesley’s irreverent sculptures and guerrilla architecture critique consumer culture and social order with a sharp wit, blending artistic mastery with incisive social commentary. Together, their art pulses with the restless, pioneering spirit synonymous with California’s rich history of radical creativity.

Making art is challenging, and forging a career as an artist is even tougher without early prodigy status or gallery connections. This article distills years of expert advice and resources from Artspace, spotlighting essential artist residencies, influential MFA programs worldwide, candid reflections on art school, and practical tips for navigating studio visits and funding your practice. Whether you’re considering formal education, seeking paid residencies, or aiming to build a sustainable art career without selling your work, these top 11 insights offer valuable guidance to help artists at every stage thrive in the complex art world.

This past year in the art world has been a whirlwind of transformation and debate, marked by the rise of new gallery hubs, the evolving influence of the Post-Internet era, and ongoing discussions about art’s political impact. From deep dives into influential critics like Hal Foster and Rosalind Krauss to explorations of emerging scenes in Harlem and Rockaway Beach, the landscape has been shaped by fresh perspectives on everything from ethical concerns around live animal artworks to the resurgence of painting as an urgent medium. Artists and curators continue to challenge traditional systems, with initiatives like artist-run super PACs disrupting election politics, while digital innovations and philosophical movements redefine how art is made, viewed, and understood. This dynamic mix of activism, theory, and innovation reflects a vibrant moment of change and creativity, captured through 21 essential pieces that reveal the complexities and possibilities shaping art today.

Nigel Cooke’s paintings are enigmatic dreamscapes that blend Old Master techniques with postmodern wit, creating menacing yet playful environments filled with motifs like pumpkins, graffiti, and Kafka-esque figures. His art explores profound questions about existence, perception, and creativity itself, presenting paintings as “walls of questions” that resist easy interpretation while inviting deep reflection. Cooke’s process is slow and deliberate, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, nature, and everyday encounters, and embracing ambivalence, humor, and the complex interplay between abstraction and figuration. Themes of invisibility, information, and self-doubt pervade his work, with figures serving as both self-portraits and ghostly stand-ins probing psychic interiority. His paintings are richly layered worlds where the dark and the light coexist, and where the artist’s internal contradictions and the external reality collide to create haunting, poignant, and often humorous visual narratives.

The Factory was a vibrant hub of creativity and rebellion where Andy Warhol gathered an eclectic group of artists, musicians, and visionaries who shaped American Pop art and punk rock’s early days. Among them, Maureen “Moe” Tucker, the shy Levittown tomboy and drummer for the Velvet Underground, found an unlikely home amid the chaos, drugs, and wild energy. Despite her aversion to drugs and vulgarity, Moe felt a genuine sense of belonging with Warhol’s crew, appreciating their acceptance without judgment. Her candid reflections reveal a world of remarkable characters, from Warhol’s quirky generosity to the camaraderie that thrived in this legendary studio, immortalized through Stephen Shore’s intimate photographs and collected oral histories in the monograph *Factory: Andy Warhol*.

As 2016 draws to a close, Artspace takes a playful yet insightful look back at the year's best listicles, celebrating their unique ability to present art and culture in clear, engaging bites. From surrealist masterpieces and groundbreaking painters to provocative sculptures tackling the digital age, the article showcases a vibrant array of artistic expressions spanning painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, fashion, and art history. Highlights include revolutionary international painters, mind-blowing installations, and game-changing female photographers, alongside quirky features like pet-friendly architecture and avant-garde wearable sculptures. Rounding out the year with a sense of fun are inventive lists celebrating fictitious artists, art-inspired fashion looks, and essential art documentaries — a perfect snapshot of 2016’s creative landscape.

As the traditional brick-and-mortar gallery system faces unprecedented challenges from shifting markets and the internet's disruptive power, art-world insiders are exploring innovative alternatives to sustain artists and engage collectors. From direct patronage and embracing global markets to reimagining gallery spaces as flexible, community-oriented hubs, voices across the spectrum emphasize adaptability and creativity. While some advocate for digital augmentation and pop-up exhibitions to lower overheads, others highlight the irreplaceable value of physical spaces for cultural engagement. Emerging models include artist-run home galleries, collaborative ventures, and mobile exhibition formats, all underscoring a vibrant ecosystem evolving beyond the white cube. Despite uncertainties, the consensus is clear: galleries must innovate thoughtfully to nurture artists and audiences alike in this rapidly changing landscape.

Artist Joshua Citarella is redefining the relationship between art, commerce, and the internet through his innovative project Ultraviolet Production House, which disrupts traditional gallery models by selling artwork as DIY kits via platforms like Etsy and Amazon. Bypassing costly studio overhead and physical inventory, Citarella and collaborator Brad Troemel create Photoshop-composited images of conceptual art objects that buyers then fabricate themselves at home, blending digital and physical realms in a post-studio practice. This model challenges the established gallery system by minimizing costs and shifting creative agency to collectors, while raising questions about authenticity, value, and the future of art distribution. Citarella’s work, including the digitally manipulated “Compression Artifacts” installation, illustrates the evolving art world where image, context, and internet-enabled production converge to reshape how art is made, sold, and experienced in an era defined by networked culture.

Taking inspiration from the 19th-century salon-style art displays, this guide helps you master the art of hanging multiple artworks in a chic, cohesive way. Whether you have a sizable collection or are building one slowly, organizing your wall around themes like portraits, black-and-white pieces, or monochrome colors can create a stunning visual impact. Tips on choosing frames, finding the right wall, and deciding on composition and alignment ensure your arrangement feels intentional and balanced. If you’re daunted by hammering nails into your wall, consider using shelves to layer and overlap artworks for a relaxed, bohemian vibe that’s just as stylish.

Graduating from art school marks a big transition from a supportive, resource-rich environment to navigating the art world independently, but with some savvy preparation during your final semester, you can ease the shift. Gain teaching experience, build and maintain connections with peers through social media groups, and research affordable studio options early on. Foster good relationships with professors for references, secure a permanent email outside your school account, and seek out tech shop jobs or memberships to keep access to essential equipment. Joining critique groups and applying for artist residencies can provide valuable feedback and community, while professionally documenting your work and building a simple, polished website will showcase your art to the world. Above all, don’t hesitate to promote yourself shamelessly on social media to grow your network and audience as you step confidently into your career.

The 1975 exhibition “New Topographics: Photographs of a Man-Altered Landscape” revolutionized landscape photography by spotlighting mundane, human-altered environments instead of the traditionally romanticized vistas. Featuring ten pioneering photographers—including Robert Adams, Bernd and Hilla Becher, and Stephen Shore—the show embraced a stark, unemotional aesthetic that captured suburban sprawl, industrial decay, and everyday commercial buildings with unwavering objectivity. Rejecting the dramatic style of Ansel Adams, the New Topographics artists revealed the overlooked realities of American development, challenging viewers to confront the social and environmental impacts of urbanization through their candid, often bleak images. Their work remains influential, offering a critical lens on the landscapes shaped by human presence and the passage of time.

Stefan Simchowitz stands as a provocative figure in the rapidly evolving art world, challenging traditional gallery models and advocating for a new, more agile system that supports artists directly. Known for his sharp critique of the entrenched, monopolistic blue-chip galleries and their slow, exclusionary practices, Simchowitz embraces a Darwinian, accelerationist approach—buying art early, investing deeply in artists, and leveraging his vast collection to shape markets and opportunities. He rejects conventional agency models, instead acting as a versatile intermediary aligned with artists’ long-term success through ownership and strategic guidance, all while fostering new platforms for exposure, such as his partnership with ICM talent agency. Amid market turbulence and the collapse of old certainties, Simchowitz pushes for breaking the system open, prioritizing stable studio funding and flexible, innovative relationships that allow artists to focus on creation rather than the exhausting demands of the traditional art circuit.

With Christmas just around the corner, this festive edition of Steal vs. Splurge offers an irresistible mix of last-minute gift ideas that blend art, design, and playful sophistication. From the surreal charm of a René Magritte-inspired watch to the ecological elegance of Maya Lin’s recycled silver bracelet, each item comes with a story that adds depth and meaning. Whether you’re eyeing Grace Coddington’s fashion archives, Jeff Koons’s vibrant SplitRocker vase, or Maurizio Cattelan’s edgy Shit Cushion, these picks span the spectrum from affordable treasures to coveted splurges, perfect for art lovers and cultural connoisseurs alike. Celebrate the holidays with gifts that not only impress but also inspire, bringing a touch of artistry and joy to every home.

Maiyet celebrates the timeless artistry of global master craftsmen by partnering with artisans across Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond, preserving endangered traditions through sustainable fashion. Based in New York, the company supports local fashion while sourcing exquisite materials and techniques like Indonesia’s vibrant hand batik, Jaipur’s meticulous block printing, Zambia’s unique hand-painted canvas, and Ghana’s dynamic Kente weaving. Maiyet’s approach not only showcases these ancient skills but also champions eco-conscious initiatives like FAIR Mongolian cashmere, ensuring these extraordinary crafts and their communities thrive in a modern world.

In an extraordinary fusion of art, technology, and space exploration, Israeli artist Eyal Gever is poised to create the first-ever sculpture fabricated in outer space aboard the International Space Station. Partnering with NASA and Made in Space, Gever’s innovative project transforms the ephemeral sound of human laughter into a tangible 3D-printed sculpture, selected through a crowd-sourced smartphone app that invites global participation. Drawing on his unique background as a tech entrepreneur and artist, Gever has developed groundbreaking tools that capture split-second moments—like explosions or car crashes—as physical sculptures, pushing the boundaries of perception and creativity. This artwork, a universal symbol of humanity’s vibrancy and complexities, will not only orbit Earth but also spark reflection on the evolving nature of art in the 21st century, challenging traditional gallery models and embracing a future where culture, technology, and human experience are intertwined beyond our planet.

Tiffany Zabludowicz reflects on the magnetic energy of Miami Art Week, a vibrant collision of art, theater, fashion, and music that transforms the city into an electrifying cultural playground. From a hauntingly immersive virtual reality theater experience at Faena Forum to the quirky charm of Vanity Projects nail salon adorned with curated video art, the week pulses with creativity beyond the typical art fair scene. Highlights include the rebellious, spellbinding performances at MoMA PS1’s Hood By Air party, the youthful exuberance of the Satellite Art Show’s playful installations and provocative performances, and the hypnotic, glitter-drenched dance spectacle by FlucT at Soho House. Throughout her journey, Tiffany discovers that Miami’s true artistic magic thrives not within the walls of galleries alone, but in the wild, unexpected intersections where art and life blur into unforgettable moments.

Contemporary art galleries face unprecedented challenges as traditional models falter under a shifting market shaped by globalization, digital disruption, and evolving artist-dealer relationships. Ed Winkleman, an expert with years of gallery experience, highlights how the long-standing "Leo Castelli model"—which emphasized long-term artist support—has unraveled, pushing dealers toward short-term sales strategies that strain both artists and galleries. Amid soaring costs, the internet’s transparency, and the dominance of elite galleries, mid-sized spaces struggle to survive, forcing a reconsideration of brick-and-mortar norms. Winkleman explores emerging alternatives like virtualization, shared gallery spaces, and diversified artist offerings, emphasizing the need for innovation that balances financial viability with cultural commitment. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of preserving artists' legacies and fostering accessibility in a market too often driven by exclusivity and sales pressure.

Eugène Delacroix, a towering figure in French Romanticism, left an indelible mark on the art world with his dynamic brushwork and vibrant use of color, deeply influencing later Impressionists. Celebrated by Charles Baudelaire for his passionate yet precise expression of emotion, Delacroix’s insights reveal a mind dedicated to harmony, order, and creativity. Through his memorable quotes, he emphasizes the importance of balance in beauty, the folly of dullness in painting, and the necessity of imperfection to complete a work of art. From his disciplined approach to drawing horses to his preference for short brushes, Delacroix’s reflections offer timeless wisdom for artists and art lovers alike, capturing the essence of a master who loved passion and sought to express it clearly.

Trained as an artist at UCLA, Tif Sigfrids began her career experimenting with various mediums before organizing playful, miniature art shows on her desk at Los Angeles’s Thomas Solomon Gallery. These quirky exhibitions, featuring artists like Max Maslansky and Zachary Leener, quickly drew more attention than the gallery itself, eventually inspiring Sigfrids to open her own Hollywood gallery. Her inaugural show was famously unconventional—she literally wore tiny portraits painted inside her ear—challenging traditional gallery norms and inviting limitless creative possibilities. Since then, her gallery has gained a reputation for showcasing emerging talents like Mimi Lauter and Becky Kolsrud alongside established artists such as Frances Scholz and Albert Merz. Despite admitting she's not a natural salesperson, Sigfrids has cultivated a devoted collector base, all while maintaining the playful, experimental spirit that defined her early desk exhibitions.

The 2016 NADA Miami Beach fair showcased a diverse array of innovative sculptures that pushed the boundaries of traditional media and artistic expression. From Hayley Silverman’s atmospheric and spiritually infused sculptures to Cristina Tufiño’s feminist-informed ceramics, the fair offered a fresh look at contemporary form and technique. Swiss artist Yves Scherer presented strikingly realistic bronze figures inspired by celebrity culture, while rising star Alex Ito explored pathos through blown glass and parasitic imagery. Japanese artist Yohei Imamura redefined silkscreen printing as intricate 3D topographical sculptures, and Stefan Benchoam humorously combined cannabis culture with natural elements in his “Pot Plant Pot.” Meanwhile, Hannah Levy’s nickel and silicone creations balanced mechanical coldness with bodily warmth, and Raúl de Nieves transformed high heels into glittering abstract objects. The fair also celebrated underrecognized talents like Sally Saul, whose playful ceramics revisited mythologies with humor, and Meredith James, who crafted optical illusions evoking voyeuristic narratives. Together, these works highlighted the eclectic vitality and conceptual depth flourishing in today’s sculptural landscape.

As the art world accelerates and evolves globally, UOVO has established itself as a pioneering force in bespoke art storage and logistics, redefining how collectors, galleries, and institutions manage their valuable collections. Founded by collector Steve Guttman, UOVO combines museum-quality facilities with cutting-edge technology to offer climate-controlled, secure spaces alongside unparalleled services like customized viewing rooms, conservation studios, and white-glove transportation. Catering to a diverse, international clientele, UOVO not only alleviates the logistical burdens of owning and handling art but also enables galleries to downsize traditional footprints, embrace flexible operations, and enhance sales through innovative, client-focused solutions. With expansive new facilities and a passionate team from across the art world, UOVO is shaping the future of art storage as a vibrant community hub and strategic partner in an ever-changing market.

Making a living as an artist is notoriously challenging, yet the world’s galleries and museums continue to celebrate those who persevere in their creative journeys. Phaidon's new collection, *Art Is the Highest Form of Hope*, offers invaluable advice, opinions, and anecdotes from some of history’s most influential artists. From Yoko Ono’s reflections on suffering to Pablo Picasso’s insights on mid-career challenges, from Anish Kapoor’s tips on planning ahead to Andrea Zittel’s perspective on embracing failure, these voices provide both inspiration and practical wisdom. Whether you’re navigating day jobs like Jane Hammond or channeling Salvador Dalí’s acceptance of accidents, this compilation is a guiding beacon for starry-eyed creatives eager to make their mark.

NADA Miami Beach offers a refreshing contrast to the weighty atmosphere of Art Basel, with an art fair brimming with playful, sometimes naughty escapism and vibrant paintings that are swiftly catching the eyes of collectors. Highlights include Daniel Heidkamp’s collage-inspired landscapes evoking pastoral calm, Leonhard Hurzlmeier’s refined, layered geometric figures with a touch of sensuality, and Scott Reeder’s inventive miniature-sculpture paintings bursting with humor. The fair also showcases young talent like Alex Chaves, blending art-historical nods with intimate portraits, and Nadia Haji Omar, whose colorful, calligraphy-infused canvases evoke a faded, tie-dye aesthetic. Provocative and bold works by Max Maslansky, recreating vintage porn scenes with delicate colors, sit alongside Sascha Braunig’s enigmatic internet-era busts and Marianne Vitale’s missile-shaped paintings reflecting on power and threat. From Nathaniel Axel’s erotically charged prints to Ridley Howard’s jewel-toned romantic tableaux, NADA captures a dynamic moment of contemporary painting full of wit, boldness, and a zest for artistic pleasure.

Alexander S.C. Rower, president of the Calder Foundation, shares his top five highlights from Art Basel Miami Beach 2016, offering a captivating tour through the vibrant fair. From the playful and irreverent Toiletpaper booth by Fondation Beyeler, curated by Maurizio Cattelan’s collective, to Derrick Adams’ haunting collaged portraits that blend art history with contemporary narratives, Rower dives deep into evocative works. He explores Judy Chicago’s interactive “Multicolor Rearrangeable Game Board,” a surprising new perspective on her iconic feminist art, and praises Takuro Kuwata’s masterful ceramics that push the boundaries of materiality with elegance and unpredictability. The socially charged energy of Rio’s Opavivará! collective brings protest and community to life with their bricolaged “Flora Tremer,” while Robert Mapplethorpe’s striking photograph of a man in a creaseless polyester suit captures a haunting tension between beauty and discomfort, reflecting Rower’s nuanced appreciation of art’s complex power.

Art Basel Miami Beach showcased a vibrant new generation of artists born between 1980 and 1990, revealing fresh voices poised to reshape the art world. Highlights include AAAJIAO’s haunting exploration of internet censorship through encrypted printed works, Kelly Akashi’s sensual sculptures inspired by dried shallots and rendered in silicone and resin, and the collaborative, tech-infused paintings and video by Anna K.E. and Florian Meisenberg that blend digital and physical realms. Chadwick Rantanen’s inventive battery-powered sculptures and Korakrit Arunanondchai’s immersive “4D” narrative environments offered compelling meditations on technology and ecology, while Shelly Nadashi’s ceramic masks evoke ephemeral life and performance. Finally, Gao Ludi captivated with playful, surreal installations inspired by Alice in Wonderland, blending virtual fantasy and tangible reality in strikingly sensory ways. Together, these artists signal a dynamic wave of creativity energizing one of the world’s most prestigious art fairs.

Art Basel Miami Beach 2016 unfolded amid a tense and uncertain atmosphere, with wary collectors and anxious conversations around politics and economics setting the tone. Yet this shift created a unique space for engagement, featuring sharply curated booths and thoughtful works that blend beauty, history, and social critique. Highlights included Damian Loeb’s mesmerizing night sky paintings, Jack Pierson’s biting political texts, and Trevor Paglen’s chilling explorations of the surveillance state. From Robert Henri’s evocative portraiture to Alice Neel’s haunting depiction of a literary eccentric, the fair showcased a powerful range of artists wrestling with identity, power, and resistance. Amidst all this, works like Sam Durant’s “End White Supremacy” challenged audiences to confront ongoing inequalities, proving that even in uncertain times, art remains a potent forum for reflection and dialogue.

The Untitled Art Fair buzzes with fresh talent, spotlighting ten emerging artists whose distinctive styles and bold visions demand attention. From Iceland’s Guðmundur Thoroddsen’s irreverent collages dissecting modern masculinity with cheeky humor, to Berlin’s Simon Mullan transforming spaces with meticulous tile installations, the fair is a feast for the senses. Brooklyn’s Justine Hill reimagines shaped canvases through digital precision, while Aaron Fowler blends historical narratives with contemporary African-American identity, captivating collectors and critics alike. Vienna’s Alina Kunitsyna mesmerizes with optical illusions that challenge perception, as London’s Matthew Stone fuses classical figures with surreal digital textures. Paris-based duo Émilie Brout and Maxime Marion explore the intersection of digital and physical realms through animated plant gifs and shattered-screen sculptures. In Los Angeles, José Lerma and Josh Reams tackle themes of wealth and power in grand monochrome triptychs, while Kyoto’s Teppei Kaneuji crafts whimsical cultural critiques in plush forms. Finally, Zak Ové reinterprets ancestral African art with futuristic materials, inviting a dialogue between tradition and innovation. This dynamic mix signals the future of contemporary art, brimming with vitality, concept, and a fearless spirit.

Each year, as Miami’s vibrant art scene heats up, so does its culinary landscape, offering visitors a delectable array of dining experiences to recharge after art fair excursions. From the refined bistro-style creations at DB Bistro Moderne by star chef Daniel Boulud inside the luxurious JW Marriott Marquis, to the intensely flavorful farm-to-table dishes served in a historic 1930s house at 27 Restaurant & Bar, Miami’s dining options captivate every palate. For those craving inventive sushi with a twist, Pubbelly Sushi in Sunset Harbour blends unexpected ingredients into a bold menu set against an industrial-chic backdrop. Partygoers and sun seekers alike can enjoy the dynamic vibes at Hyde Beach, where chic design meets lively nightlife and poolside glamour. Meanwhile, Casa Tua provides a serene Mediterranean escape with attentive service and northern Italian cuisine, perfect for impressing locals and savoring a relaxed meal in a charming garden setting. Whether seeking sophisticated flavors or vibrant energy, Miami’s top eateries deliver unforgettable moments that perfectly complement the city’s artistic pulse.

Miami’s annual Art Week is as much a celebration of creativity as it is a labyrinth of art world jargon, where everyday words take on new, often baffling meanings. To help attendees navigate this linguistic maze, the London art magazine frieze’s editors, Dan Fox and Jennifer Higgie, offer an irreverent glossary of 33 essential art terms ranging from “Banal” and “Elite” to “Markets” and “Sexism.” With witty and sometimes biting definitions, this guide demystifies the language echoing through galleries and fairs, revealing the complexities and contradictions of the art industry—from the elusive nature of “Value” and “Taste” to the omnipresent drama of “Money” and “Fame.” Whether you’re rubbing elbows with collectors or pondering the ethics of exploitation, this insider’s lexicon is your key to decoding the vibrant, often perplexing world of contemporary art.

Louisa Gagliardi, a young painter from Zürich with a background in graphic design, is rapidly emerging as a compelling figure in contemporary art by blending digital techniques with traditional painting. Her moody, enigmatic works evoke a charged atmosphere of intimacy, voyeurism, and anxiety, reflecting the complexities of the Post-Internet era where digital and physical realities blur. Drawing inspiration from early 20th-century modernists like Fernand Léger, Gagliardi explores themes of identity, technology, and social dynamics through human figures that are often sensual yet unsettling. Despite her swift rise from commercial illustration to gallery acclaim, she remains candid about her artistic insecurities and her pragmatic balance between fine art and design work. Her innovative process—starting with sketches that evolve into layered digital paintings printed on unconventional surfaces—challenges traditional notions of painting, positioning her at the forefront of a generation redefining the medium in the digital age.

Phaidon's Vitamin P3 highlights a vibrant new generation of international portraitists who blend classical form with bold, contemporary narratives, redefining how we see identity and history. Hayv Kahraman’s deeply personal work channels her experience as a refugee to explore themes of gender, tradition, and trauma through a fusion of cultural art forms. Hulda Guzmán captures the lush rhythms of Caribbean life with richly detailed, evocative scenes that explore intimacy, joy, and disconnection, often inviting viewers into a voyeuristic glimpse of everyday moments. Meanwhile, Ewa Juszkiewicz breathes new life into portraiture by reimagining historical female figures with surreal and feminist twists, creating hauntingly beautiful reflections on memory, loss, and the cultural legacy of objectification. Together, these artists challenge conventions and invite us to reconsider the power and possibilities of portraiture today.

Alex Gartenfeld, deputy director and chief curator at Miami’s Institute of Contemporary Art, has quickly risen as a dynamic force in the art world, from curating shows in his Chinatown apartment to helming major exhibitions like the New Museum’s 2018 Triennial. This Miami Art Week, he celebrates with the opening of “One Day on Success Street,” a comprehensive survey of Thomas Bayrle’s work at the ICA. Gartenfeld also shares his picks from the vibrant NADA Miami Beach art fair, spotlighting diverse talents such as self-taught artist Eugene Von Bruenchenhein’s explorations of nuclear energy and royal imagery, Miami-based abstract painter Tomm El-Saieh influenced by Haitian idol traditions, New York’s multifaceted Raúl De Nieves, and the inspiring Creative Growth studio supporting artists with disabilities. From Stan VanDerBeek’s groundbreaking new media pastel to under-recognized Cuban artist Agustin Fernandez’s surreal, erotic reliefs, Gartenfeld’s selections celebrate a rich spectrum of contemporary and outsider art that challenges and captivates.

Renowned Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Elíasson, celebrated for his environmentally conscious art, fuels his studio's creativity through communal, vegetarian meals crafted from local, organic ingredients. His cookbook, *Studio Olafur Eliasson: The Kitchen*, showcases over 100 recipes developed collaboratively by his team and renowned chefs like René Redzepi and Alice Waters. From the vibrant Creamy Pink Root Soup with Roasted Kohlrabi to the aromatic Tomato Soup with Cumin and Figs, the rustic Savory Scones, and crispy Potato Croquettes, each dish reflects a spirit of creativity and togetherness. The collection also features comforting favorites like Brussels Sprouts with Baked Ricotta, a velvety Flan with Caramel Sauce, and a beloved Carrot Cake, perfect for bringing an art-filled, mindful touch to any festive table.

Prague, often hailed as the “Golden City” and “Heart of Europe,” is experiencing a vibrant revival of its contemporary art scene after decades of turmoil. Leading this cultural resurgence is Micael Mánek, founder of the dynamic SVIT gallery, who champions Czech artists and introduces their work to international audiences through art fairs across Europe—and now, for the first time, in the United States with his debut at NADA Miami Beach. Balancing deep respect for Prague’s rich artistic heritage with a forward-looking approach, Mánek supports a diverse roster of emerging and established local talents, all while navigating the challenges of a small but growing collector base. Thanks in part to government subsidies, his gallery fosters innovative public programs that connect artists beyond borders, reflecting a thriving, evolving art community that’s increasingly recognized on the global stage.

Institutional Critique is an art movement that challenges the social, political, and cultural frameworks within which art is presented, exposing how museums and other institutions are far from neutral spaces. Starting in the late 1960s with provocative protests like those of the Guerrilla Art Action Group at the Museum of Modern Art, artists have used performance, protest, and radical exhibitions to reveal the ideological underpinnings of the art world. Pioneering figures such as Hans Haacke and Daniel Buren faced censorship and exclusion for confronting the politics tied to art institutions, while others like Michael Asher and Mierle Laderman Ukeles highlighted how context and labor shape our perceptions. Fred Wilson’s powerful 1992 exhibition further unveiled racial and class biases embedded in museum collections, continuing the movement’s mission to question who decides the stories art tells and who gets to be included.

Black-and-white photography offers a timeless elegance that has captivated collectors and artists alike, and this guide introduces both pioneering and contemporary masters of the medium. From Paul Strand’s groundbreaking abstract compositions and candid portraits, to Diane Arbus’s compassionate explorations of society’s outsiders, the art form has continually evolved in depth and perspective. Sebastião Salgado’s powerful global narratives, Daido Moriyama’s poetic embrace of imperfection, and Roger Ballen’s surrealist imagery highlight the diversity of black-and-white photography today. Meanwhile, Sally Mann’s intimate and haunting family portraits evoke both beauty and controversy, and Zanele Muholi’s urgent activism redefines visual history through a bold black, queer, and trans lens. Together, these artists embody the rich, dynamic world of black-and-white photography, making it an inspiring starting point for new collectors.

At just 22, Michael Xufu Huang is redefining what it means to be a young art collector and curator. While most of his peers focus on parties and internships, Huang balances his senior year at the University of Pennsylvania with co-founding M WOODS, a cutting-edge non-profit private art museum in Beijing. With a collection spanning luminaries like James Turrell and Liu Wei to vibrant Post-Internet artists such as Amalia Ulman, Huang’s keen eye and global travels position him as an influential voice in contemporary art. As he gears up for NADA Miami Beach 2016, Huang shares his insights on standout works by artists challenging notions of value, identity, and digital expression, making this a must-follow event for anyone passionate about the evolving art landscape.

Gean Moreno, a key figure in Miami’s vibrant art scene and curator at the Institute of Contemporary Art, shares his insights on standout works from this year’s NADA Miami Beach art fair. Moreno highlights the enigmatic performances and delicate presence in Jiri Kovanda’s new works, the timeless yet contemporary allure of Louise Despont’s drawings, and the raw, unapologetic nature of Robert Branaman’s art. He also sheds light on the formally impeccable and intriguingly edgy creations of Cuban artist Agustin Fernandez and celebrates Harold Mendez’s innovative use of reclaimed materials infused with personal and cultural narratives, continuing a legacy of expressive, historically charged art.

Just in time for the ultimate holiday relaxation, dive into ten captivating art documentaries available on Netflix and Amazon Prime that effortlessly blend entertainment with education. From the mind-bending story of master forger Wolfgang Beltracchi to the fearless activism of Ai Weiwei, and the devotion behind giant cardboard sculptures by James Grashow, these films offer intimate portraits of artists and collectors who shape the art world in bold and unexpected ways. Explore street art narratives, the challenges women artists face in New York, and the enduring legacy of trailblazers like Peggy Guggenheim and Carmen Herrera. Whether it’s through stunning visuals, fiery political statements, or fascinating historical insights, these documentaries provide a rich feast for the curious mind ready to embrace art’s diverse stories during a cozy binge session.

Swiss artist Thomas Hirschhorn transforms everyday, humble materials like cardboard and tape into provocative public installations that challenge commercial and institutional art norms. Rooted in his graphic design training yet breaking free from its constraints, Hirschhorn’s work confronts capitalism and societal hierarchies while embracing precariousness and impermanence. His “monuments” to thinkers like Deleuze and Bataille blend political commitment with a raw, democratic accessibility, inviting active but non-interactive engagement rather than participation. Hirschhorn’s art is a deliberate act of responsibility and freedom, eschewing traditional notions of success or failure, and fueled by a deep, personal fandom that celebrates intellectual and cultural figures without the need for scholarly precision—affirming art as a courageous, autonomous force that confronts reality directly.

In 1916, W.B. Yeats crafted *At the Hawk’s Well*, a play inspired by Japanese Noh drama and shaped through Ezra Pound’s translations, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with Modernist innovation. This unique cultural fusion not only influenced Western theatre but also sparked a revival of Noh in Japan throughout the 20th century. Today, conceptual artist Simon Starling revisits this century-old work with *At Twilight*, an evocative reinterpretation that layers the original play with narratives of Yeats and Pound’s creative process, entwined with contemporary performance, historical artifacts, and exquisite Noh masks. Starling’s project grapples thoughtfully with themes of storytelling, translation, cultural exchange, and appropriation, inviting audiences to explore the complex interplay of history, art, and identity within a richly textured exhibition and performance that bridges East and West across time.

From Jasper Johns’s groundbreaking experimentations with screen prints to Rachel Whiteread’s haunting casts that capture the poetic essence of everyday objects, Christie's auctions have long celebrated contemporary masters who challenge and redefine artistic norms. Damien Hirst’s dazzling Pharmaceutical Paintings and Jeff Koons’s monumental Tulips highlight the fusion of science, commerce, and playful forms, while Zeng Fanzhi’s Mask Series exposes the complex social dynamics of a changing China. Tracey Emin’s raw, confessional My Bed reveals the intimate struggles behind fame, contrasting with Chris Ofili’s provocative, multi-layered explorations of identity and spirituality. Louise Bourgeois’s towering Spider embodies both fear and maternal strength, cementing her legacy as a pioneering force bridging surrealism and post-minimalism. These artists, among others, not only achieved record-breaking sales but also sparked cultural conversations that continue to resonate, marking Christie’s as a vital stage for contemporary art’s evolving history.

Making a living as an artist is challenging, especially for those working in less conventional or market-friendly mediums like performance, social practice, video, or installation art. Beyond gallery sales, artists can explore several funding avenues such as grants and fellowships—particularly valuable for marginalized communities—though these opportunities often require navigating competitive application processes. Paid residencies offer not just financial support but dedicated time and space to focus on creative projects, but they can be difficult for artists balancing other jobs. Public art commissions represent a significant but underutilized source of income, with programs like Percent for Art allocating city budgets toward large-scale projects, though the application process is rigorous and demands project management skills. Teaching art at academic institutions, while requiring a commitment to work, can provide steady income, access to facilities, and open doors to career advancement. Ultimately, this guide encourages artists to pursue multiple strategies to sustain their practice while reaffirming the value of creating difficult, ephemeral, or non-commercial art.

Jordan Wolfson’s latest animatronic sculpture, Colored sculpture, hauntingly revives the spirit of Stravinsky’s Petroushka—a puppet caught in a cycle of anger, pain, and resentment. With its glossy, fractured form and disjointed movements accompanied by a fractured rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman,” the piece embodies a complex mix of empathy and repulsion, reflecting both personal anguish and a broader cultural moment. Speaking deeply to contemporary tensions, the sculpture evokes the precariousness of white male identity amid societal change, exposing a fragile yet enduring figure fueled by resentment in a politically charged landscape. Wolfson’s work provokes us to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, victimhood, and the volatile emotions shaping today’s America.

Renowned architect Peter Marino, celebrated for his visionary work with luxury brands and art institutions, has unveiled a compelling new chapter as an artist crafting sculptural bronze boxes. Drawing inspiration from ancient bronzes recovered from a 350 BC shipwreck and his lifelong passion for bronze, Marino creates timeless objets d’art that bridge historic grandeur and contemporary style. Cast at the prestigious Atelier Saint Jacques—the same foundry used by Rodin—these functional yet imposing pieces embody Marino’s eclectic aesthetic, seamlessly fitting into settings from Versailles to modern lofts. Through his evolving series, each deeply personal and meticulously crafted, Marino challenges the modern divide between art and architecture, embracing a Renaissance-like versatility to craft works designed to endure beyond his architectural legacy.

Painting, after facing a decline in the late 20th century amidst conceptual and anti-retinal movements, is experiencing a vibrant resurgence today, filling galleries and captivating both critics and collectors. Laura Hoptman, MoMA curator and veteran art world observer, reflects on this revival, tracing its roots through key artists and shifting attitudes since the late 1980s. From the emergence of narrative conceptualism and the rise of figurative painters like Elizabeth Peyton and John Currin, to the challenging abstractions of Tomma Abts and the innovative digital-age approaches of Wade Guyton, painting has continually evolved. Hoptman highlights how the medium has moved from skepticism about visual pleasure and commodification to a complex dialogue embracing both traditional craftsmanship and conceptual critique, illustrating a dynamic, ongoing conversation that continues to redefine what painting can be in the 21st century.

Gwyneth Paltrow’s passion for the arts goes far beyond her acclaimed acting career, delving deeply into the fine-art world through a keen eye and cultivated taste. From her admiration of British photographer Darren Almond’s majestic works to her brief stint as an art history major, Paltrow’s connection to art is both personal and profound. She surrounds herself with unique pieces, such as Ann Carrington’s witty needlepoint in her Hampton home, and benefits from the guidance of Maria Brito, a luxury lifestyle consultant who scouts creatives like Basquiat and Kusama. Paltrow’s presence lights up major art events from LACMA to the Broad museum, though she admits not all galas are enjoyable. Adding to her artistic ties, her sister-in-law is renowned conceptual artist Taryn Simon. Now, Paltrow prepares to portray Dora Maar, Picasso’s muse during the creation of Guernica, bringing her deep love of art and languages to this evocative new role, blending her real-life passion with her onscreen talents.

Mona Hatoum’s art fiercely explores the intimate and political realms of the body, identity, and displacement, drawing from her experiences as a Palestinian-born artist living in exile. From provocative early performances challenging societal taboos to minimalist installations that fuse beauty with danger, her work confronts power structures, surveillance, and the physical vulnerability of the body. Hatoum’s journey—from her experimental beginnings in London’s art schools to deeply personal and politically charged pieces created in Jerusalem and beyond—reveals an artist who continually reinvents her language, balancing sensuality and intellect while resisting reduction to any singular identity or didactic message. Her installations and objects invite viewers into a dynamic experience marked by paradox, subtlety, and the haunting presence of both fragility and resistance.

From the seductive allure of Tony Lewis’s ghostly reimaginings of Calvin & Hobbes to Josef Albers’s iconic “Homage to the Square” exploring color harmony within strict geometric forms, this collection showcases artworks that captivate and provoke. Nina Chanel Abney’s vibrant, politically charged collages confront America’s social crises with boldness, while Philip Guston’s late-life lithograph reveals haunting yet poignant imagery rooted in his complex journey through 20th-century art. Howard Hodgkin’s emotive Indian landscapes and Tom Wesselmann’s provocative Pop still lifes add layers of emotional depth and playful sensuality, inviting collectors to experience the magnetic pull of art that truly drives desire.

Berlin-based artist Robin Rhode remains deeply connected to South Africa, where his performative charcoal and paint drawings confront social and political issues with humor and subtle satire. Drawing from South African street culture and childhood rituals, Rhode merges high art with accessible public engagement, often collaborating with marginalized communities. His work explores the tension between his analytical creative process in Berlin and the direct social realities of Johannesburg. Embracing humor as a tool of subversion, Rhode critiques themes like corruption, inequality, and youth culture, reflecting the complexities of post-apartheid South Africa. Recently, he has expanded into designing skateboard decks for Skateistan, an NGO empowering youth through skate parks worldwide, bringing his art from gallery walls to public spaces and extreme sports, continuing to blur boundaries between high and low culture while fostering social change.

Phaidon’s *Going Once* offers a captivating journey through 250 years of Christie's auction house history, spotlighting landmark sales that shaped the art world. From Diego Velázquez’s intimate portrait of Juan de Pareja, which shattered auction records in 1970, to Edgar Degas’s once-scandalous *Little Dancer* bronze and Vincent van Gogh’s hauntingly melancholic *Portrait of Dr. Gachet*, each lot tells a story rich in drama and significance. The book also highlights Frida Kahlo’s breakthrough as the first Latin American artist to cross the million-dollar mark at auction, Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Hammer notebook acquired by Bill Gates, and Pablo Picasso’s *Le rêve*, a centerpiece of a legendary private collection sale. Other notable works include Georgia O'Keeffe’s monumental floral paintings, René Magritte’s surreal *Empire of Light*, Claude Monet’s rare signed *Waterlilies*, and Raphael’s exquisite preparatory drawing *Head of a Muse*—all examples of artistry commanding breathtaking prices while revealing the evolving tastes, passions, and histories that animate the auction world.

Christie’s auction house, famed for its multimillion-dollar art sales, reveals a fascinating array of extraordinary and eclectic items that have crossed its auction block over 250 years. Highlights include Ian Fleming’s golden typewriter used to write James Bond novels, exquisite 19th-century singing bird pistols crafted with intricate Swiss clockwork, and Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Happy Birthday Mr. President” dress that captivated the world. Rare historical treasures such as George Washington’s annotated Constitution, a stunning samurai armor of the Edo period, and the first meteorite ever auctioned by Christie’s showcase the breadth of its offerings. Even the rare and complete skeleton of a Siberian mammoth has found a place in this eclectic collection, illustrating the auction house’s unique role in preserving and celebrating moments of cultural, scientific, and historical significance.

Contemporary African painters are reshaping the global art conversation with powerful, multifaceted works that challenge historical narratives and reflect complex social realities. Meleko Mokgosi uses large, cinematic canvases to explore identity, nationhood, and post-colonial memory, inviting viewers into a participatory dialogue with Southern Africa’s turbulent history. Blessing Ngobeni confronts the injustices and corruption of post-Apartheid South Africa through surreal, politically charged mixed media paintings that pulsate with raw energy and symbolic imagery. Meanwhile, Njideka Akunyili Crosby blends painting, printmaking, and collage to weave intimate stories of cultural hybridity and memory, merging Nigerian and American influences into lush, layered domestic scenes that celebrate the fluidity of identity. Together, these artists under 40 are vital voices illuminating the richness and urgency of contemporary African art on the world stage.

At 70, McArthur Binion is experiencing a vibrant renaissance in his artistic career, finally receiving the recognition his deeply emotive, abstract paintings deserve. Having spent decades immersed in the New York art scene of the ’70s—surrounded by legends yet deliberately withholding his work from showings due to a desire for authentic reception and representation—Binion reflects on the challenges of being a Black artist in a predominantly white environment. His work, rich with layered personal history, incorporates intimate mementos like old phone books, capturing the emotional geography of his life beyond simplistic racial narratives. Now based in Chicago, Binion embraces a disciplined studio practice, steadfastly refining his craft with the confidence that his best work lies ahead, embodying a fierce commitment to creative self-invention and resilience.

In *Art as Therapy*, Alain de Botton and John Armstrong reimagine the role of art in our lives, proposing galleries and dealers as more than just marketplaces—they should act like therapists, helping individuals discover the art they truly need to heal and enrich their inner selves. Rather than focusing on status and prestige, art dealers could guide buyers toward pieces that rebalance their emotional and psychological lives. Meanwhile, museum gift shops, often overlooked, hold immense potential as crucial spaces for deepening our connection to art beyond the gallery walls. By offering thoughtfully curated objects that resonate with the spirit and values of artists—rather than just branded merchandise—gift shops can help us carry the insights and beauty of art into our everyday routines, making art not just admired but truly lived.

The Lower East Side Printshop, the largest print workshop in the U.S., collaborates with over 160 artists annually, blending traditional techniques with innovative approaches under the expertise of master printer Erik Hougen. From silkscreen to cyanotypes, this not-for-profit studio nurtures artists like Derrick Adams and Latoya Ruby Frazier, helping them translate their unique visions into striking editioned prints. Hougen emphasizes the intimate collaboration involved in printmaking, where artists rethink their creative process by building images in layers, often discovering new dimensions to their work. As part of New York’s vibrant Print Week, the Printshop unveils special editions that honor both the medium’s rich history and its evolving future, fostering a dynamic dialogue between artist and craft.

Laura Hoptman, esteemed curator at the Museum of Modern Art, has long championed painting as a vital contemporary medium, even through its ebbs of criticism and skepticism. With a career spanning groundbreaking exhibitions at MoMA, the New Museum, and the Carnegie Museum of Art, Hoptman passionately defends the genuine investment and belief behind successful abstract painting, distinguishing it from the market-driven “Zombie Formalism” phenomenon. Her landmark 2014 exhibition "The Forever Now" reignited dialogue about painting’s relevance by spotlighting artists who engage deeply with the canvas and art history, despite polarized critical response. Hoptman also reflects on the complex interplay between museum validation and the art market, emphasizing that true artistic value transcends auction prices. Guided by her connections within the artist community, she curates with an eye toward artists whose work is essential to advancing the discourse today, affirming that painting remains a dynamic and necessary force in contemporary art.

Suprematism, pioneered by Kazimir Malevich, emerged as a groundbreaking Russian avant-garde movement that sought to transcend the physical world through pure geometric abstraction. Rejecting traditional narratives and political imagery, Malevich’s iconic "Black Square" symbolized a spiritual liberation from reality, inviting viewers to contemplate form and color as ends in themselves. Inspired by Cubism and Futurism yet distinctly Russian, Suprematism distilled art to basic shapes and subtle tonalities, as seen in Malevich’s ethereal “White on White” series, which embodied a utopian vision aligned with the ideals of the 1917 revolution. Far from detached, Suprematism found real-world application through Malevich and his pupils' work at the state porcelain factory, blending avant-garde spirituality with everyday life.

Anderson Cooper, known for his compelling journalism and nine Emmy Awards, harbors a surprising passion for the art world that mirrors his culturally rich upbringing as the son of Gloria Vanderbilt. Despite his globe-trotting correspondent work, Cooper’s art collection is both eclectic and impressive, spanning contemporary favorites like Njideka Akunyili Crosby to an unfinished 18th-century Old Master portrait. His commitment to art isn’t just collecting; it’s deeply personal, exemplified by his iconic childhood photograph taken by Diane Arbus, which has been exhibited in prestigious museums. Cooper’s art world escapades even include a dramatic $1.4 million bid for a Jeff Koons sculpture made from melted-down guns, blending activism with aesthetics. Whether showcased in his New York home or glimpsed in an H&M video, Cooper’s artistic sensibility shines as vibrantly as his journalism.

Art advisor Joyce Varvatos’s journey from a finance background to becoming a trusted guide in the contemporary art world reveals a deep passion fueled by curiosity and persistence. After leaving the corporate realm to work at Art in America and directing a documentary on influential female art dealers, Varvatos carved a niche helping collectors build meaningful collections tailored to their personalities and goals. She emphasizes listening closely to clients and leveraging her extensive knowledge and relationships with galleries to recommend works that resonate personally, whether for enjoyment or investment. Varvatos also shares candid insights into the challenges of trust and due diligence in the art market, the dynamic interplay of personalities in collecting—especially with her husband, fashion designer John Varvatos—and the thrill of discovering emerging artists who evoke the emotional power of masters. Her eclectic collection reflects both a refined eye and an ongoing quest for art that speaks to her, underscoring the unique role an art advisor plays in translating passion into enduring expression.

Pipilotti Rist, a trailblazer in experimental video art, blurs the lines between fine art, music videos, advertising, and psychedelia with her vibrant, playful, and erotically charged works. Drawing from her roots as a Swiss pop star, she creates immersive video and audio installations that invite viewers to dissolve conventional boundaries between technology, bodies, and sensation. In this revealing interview, Rist reflects on her evolution from Super 8 film to pioneering video art, her feminist influences, and her embrace of pleasure and seduction as central to her practice—contrasting sharply with the more punitive tone of earlier performance art. She discusses the intimate relationship between camera and body, the poetic potential of technology, and her optimistic vision of a future where gender is fluid and art serves as a healing, communal experience. Through works like *I’m Not The Girl Who Misses Much*, *Pickelporno*, and *Pixelwald*, Rist offers a radical and joyous reimagining of how we see and feel, merging organic and technological worlds into spaces of sensual, liberating communion.

New York’s Museum of Modern Art has made its extensive exhibition archives from the 1960s freely available online, offering an illuminating glimpse into a decade of artistic innovation amid social upheaval. From the groundbreaking “16 Americans” show that introduced now-iconic artists like Jasper Johns and Robert Rauschenberg, to Jean Tinguely’s self-destructing kinetic sculpture, MoMA’s programming captures the restless experimental spirit of the era. Highlights include the exhaustive survey “The Art of Assemblage,” Bernard Rudofsky’s celebration of vernacular architecture, and the influential Op Art exhibition “The Responsive Eye.” The archives also showcase forward-thinking photography exhibitions and the museum’s rare politically conscious tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting a dynamic intersection of art, technology, and social change during one of America’s most turbulent decades.

Alex Gartenfeld, the dynamic 29-year-old curator and critic, has been appointed to organize the 2018 New Museum Triennial, continuing his journey from early grassroots exhibitions to leading roles at prominent institutions like Miami’s Institute of Contemporary Art. Deeply engaged with painting as both a medium and a cultural touchstone, Gartenfeld explores how contemporary artists navigate the political, economic, and historical dimensions of painting—from the gestural critiques of John Miller to the abstract yet realist gestures in Ryan Sullivan’s work. His curatorial vision shines a spotlight on painting’s unique relationship with market forces, image culture, and technological shifts, as exemplified by Thomas Bayrle’s intricate pre-digital aesthetics. Gartenfeld’s insightful approach also embraces the rich social narratives embedded in portraiture, as seen in Matthew Watson’s conceptual depictions. With an eye on emerging talents and complex dialogues between tradition and innovation, Gartenfeld offers a compelling preview of the Triennial’s evolving themes and the vibrant future of contemporary painting.

Stephen Shore, acclaimed for his trailblazing use of color photography to reveal the beauty in everyday American life, shares intimate memories of his youth and his unexpected artistic relationship with Andy Warhol. At just 17, Shore gained rare access to Warhol’s iconic Factory, capturing the eccentric personalities and spontaneous creativity that defined the space. Through candid anecdotes and reflections, he reveals how Warhol’s casual yet deliberate aesthetic choices and open-minded approach to art deeply influenced his own perspective and career. Shore’s essay offers a vivid glimpse into a pivotal cultural moment, blending heartfelt recollections with a behind-the-scenes look at the swirling energy and artistic innovation of Warhol’s world.

Stephen Shore’s captivating photographs offer an intimate glimpse into the wild, colorful world of Andy Warhol’s Factory during the mid-1960s, immortalizing the legendary artists, musicians, and personalities who defined a radical era of creativity and chaos. From behind-the-scenes antics of the Velvet Underground to the enigmatic beauty of Nico, these rare images are paired with vivid anecdotes that reveal the raw, often chaotic spirit of Warhol’s circle—where glamour met grit, art blurred with life, and iconic figures like Edie Sedgwick, Gerard Malanga, and Billy Name navigated fame, friendship, and fierce ambition. This visual and narrative journey not only celebrates a unique cultural moment but also captures the complex human stories that fueled the avant-garde revolution.

Lindsay Taylor, founder of Taylor Art Advisory and a distinguished collector from New York City, shares her vibrant and eclectic approach to art collecting in this Collector Spotlight. Her latest acquisition, a colorful and textured piece by Asha Schechter, perfectly balances whimsy with professionalism for a client's office. Lindsay is drawn to works that evoke an emotional response and feature rich textures, as seen in her admiration for artists like Eline McGeorge, Evan Nesbit, Sasha Pierce, Brent Wadden, and Hugo McCloud. She embraces an open-minded and intuitive collecting style, choosing pieces that resonate deeply and tell compelling stories, creating a unique and dynamic personal collection.

Magnus Edensvard, the visionary Swedish gallerist behind Ibid, has redefined the art dealer’s journey by rapidly expanding from his East London living room beginnings to a bold new 13,000-square-foot gallery complex in Los Angeles’ Boyle Heights. With a history of innovative international projects—from Vilnius to pop-ups worldwide—Edensvard embraces LA’s unique blend of low-key community spirit and global artistic ambition. His new multi-space venue pioneers a diverse program, juxtaposing emerging artists with modern masters like Ed Ruscha and Rosemarie Trockel, facilitated by close collaborations with curators and artists. Edensvard highlights LA’s supportive, open art scene as a refreshing contrast to London’s competitive market, fostering meaningful, face-to-face collector relationships and a thriving local market. Rooted deeply in personal and professional connections—including his family’s integration into the gallery—Edensvard’s approach is thoughtful, artist-driven, and committed to evolving the gallery as a dynamic hub where art, community, and innovative programming converge.

Every once in a while, an art deal emerges that’s too good to pass up, and this article highlights a selection of such irresistible steals alongside some worthy splurges. From William Eggleston’s iconic photograph capturing the beauty in the mundane, to Man Ray’s surrealist cast-iron sculpture that upends logic, these pieces offer tremendous value at accessible prices. On the splurge side, contemporary visionaries like Tauba Auerbach and Jordan Kasey bring fresh perspectives—Auerbach’s digital-inspired etchings and Kasey’s immersive, large-scale oil paintings prove art can be both timeless and modern. With works spanning conceptual multiples by Allan McCollum to Louisa Gagliardi’s digital-meets-handmade glowing figures, this curated collection invites art lovers to treat themselves and invest in compelling, conversation-starting masterpieces.

At this year’s Frieze Art Fair, alongside renowned masterpieces, a vibrant wave of emerging artists captured attention with bold, fresh approaches. Anne Speier challenged the primacy of sight in art appreciation by enticing viewers to “taste” her lingual sculptures and kitchen-themed paintings. Aaron Garber-Maikovska’s playful Stonehenge-like installations and enigmatic performance videos revealed a deeper, theatrical dimension beneath his abstract paintings. The exuberant Brazilian collective Opavivará! brought joyous interaction to the fair with their lively mini bar carts serving caipirinhas, blending art with celebration. Donna Huanca captivated audiences with her provocative fusion of performance and painting, transforming bodies into living canvases and redefining figure and abstraction. Meanwhile, Jesse Darling’s anthropomorphic sculptures and thought-provoking explorations of identity and the body added a uniquely tender and inventive presence. These five artists are undeniably ones to watch as they redefine contemporary art’s boundaries with energy and imagination.

The Sunday Art Fair at Ambika P3 buzzes with fresh energy this year, showcasing a dynamic lineup of indie galleries and artists who push boundaries with quirky, thought-provoking work. From Strauss Bourque-LaFrance’s playful plywood assemblages rooted in Americana to Elliott Dodd’s animated, mood-shifting self-portraits exploring modern masculinity, and Valérian Goalec’s elegant conceptual sculptures blurring function and art, the fair is ripe with discovery. German video artist Maximillian Schmoetzer captivates with a surreal, multilayered tribute to human daring, while British painter Neil Raitt channels the spirit of amateur artistry through cozy landscapes and oversized handmade lampshades. Together, these artists create a secretive yet vibrant hub where contemporary creativity thrives.

This year’s Frieze Art Fair in London offers a feast for collectors driven by passion and a keen eye, showcasing a strikingly strong lineup that outshines recent editions. Highlights include Latifa Echakhch’s evocative paintings exploring memory and the passage of time, Bjarne Melgaard’s provocative bronze self-portrait embroiled in a saga of artistic rights, and Christoph Schlingensief’s inspiring Opera Village Africa project bringing global attention to West African artists. William Kentridge transforms his soulful drawings into stunning steel sculptures, while Louise Lawler’s meta photographic vinyl wallpaper playfully critiques art’s relationship with commerce. Emerging alongside established names, Eddie Martinez’s fresh sculptures nod to art history while John Baldessari innovates with digitally enhanced collages. The fair also revisits the ‘90s spirit with Wolfgang Tillmans’s iconic early works and highlights poignant conceptual pieces by Mladen Stilinović and Rita Ackermann. Together, these works celebrate art’s enduring power to challenge, reflect, and connect across time and culture.

Etel Adnan’s art and life are inseparable, reflecting a rich cosmopolitan heritage and a lifetime of engagement with politics, beauty, and nature. Raised in Beirut and educated across continents, Adnan's captivating journey spans roles as painter, poet, and educator. Her art emerged as a response to both the brutal realities of war and the serene landscapes of California, blending political urgency with an intense love of nature. Gaining recognition late in life, her vibrant, semi-abstract landscapes and public murals have since captivated the art world, embodying a poetic language that transcends mere visuals. Adnan’s reflections reveal her belief in art’s power to humanize society, foster community, and bring beauty and hope into even the harshest environments, making her work a profound lesson in creativity, resilience, and the enduring place of art in our lives.

Keren Cytter is a remarkably prolific Israeli-born, New York-based artist whose multifaceted work spans over 60 videos, seven books, and innovative theater productions. Her films cleverly subvert cinematic clichés—employing disjointed storylines, awkward dialogue, and self-referential subtitles—to expose the artifice behind familiar film conventions, engaging viewers with a smart, dry humor that challenges traditional narratives. Expanding her practice beyond video, Cytter founded the dance company D.I.E. Now and recently ventured into music videos with *Terrorist of Love*, blending meme-like imagery and original sound in a groundbreaking, one-take 4K format. Through her art, Cytter blurs boundaries between fiction and reality, actor and character, always foregrounding the structures and rules of storytelling itself. Despite her critical eye and deconstructive style, she strives to evoke genuine emotion, particularly sadness, while maintaining a playful, often self-deprecating approach to creativity and social media. Her forthcoming projects include a new book and a daring theater work set for debut at the Stedelijk Museum, confirming her restless innovation and complex engagement with contemporary culture.

London’s Frieze Art Fair has become a pinnacle event in the global art scene, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike, but its origins trace back to the early 1990s with the launch of frieze magazine. Founded by Amanda Sharp and Matthew Slotover amidst the vibrant Young British Artists movement, frieze magazine set out to revolutionize art journalism with accessible, well-designed, and insightful content that contrasted sharply with the dense and esoteric art publications of the time. From its pilot issue in 1991, which included the first published interview with Damien Hirst, to its expansion into multiple respected publications and international art fairs, frieze has played a crucial role in shaping contemporary art discourse. The magazine’s evolution reflects a commitment to embracing new voices, technologies, and global perspectives while maintaining its core mission: to interpret and illuminate the most important developments in contemporary art through thoughtful criticism and engaging writing.

Though punk as a distinct genre and youth subculture may have faded, its rebellious spirit indelibly shaped music, fashion, art, and culture from the late 1970s onward. “Oh So Pretty: Punk in Print 1976-80” captures this era through rare and striking ephemera—fanzines like Mark Perry’s DIY Sniffin’ Glue, iconic posters from the Sex Pistols and Rock Against Racism, and vivid imagery reflecting the political and social turmoil of the time. Punk’s raw energy and anti-establishment ethos come alive in these visual artifacts, revealing a movement fueled by underground creativity, fierce opposition to racism and inequality, and a do-it-yourself ethos that challenged mainstream norms while influencing generations to come.

London-based journalist and editor Alex Rayner, known for his insightful writing on art and culture for esteemed British publications, has launched his own quarterly art and fashion magazine, Supplement, blending stunning photography with compelling essays. In his latest reflections, Rayner highlights standout works from the Sunday Art Fair in London, spotlighting artists like Mark Leckey, whose nostalgic video montages blend history and emotion, and BFGF, whose casual yet elegant pieces blur the lines between art and everyday comfort. He also praises Elliot Dodd’s vivid, animated video work, Dan Holdsworth’s atmospheric photography with its spontaneous beauty, and Anja Salonen’s intriguing contemporary portraiture, capturing a fresh and provocative vision of youth.

Kimi Kitada, Public Programs & Research Coordinator at Independent Curators International, shares her passion for innovative art curation through her new project, the alt_break art fair, which partners with community-based nonprofits during New York’s Armory Week. Highlighting standout pieces from Artspace’s exclusive preview of the upcoming Sunday Art Fair in London, Kitada spotlights diverse works such as Ana Cardoso’s ethereal painting that challenges traditional canvas shapes, Chiara Camoni’s meticulously crafted sculptural grids, and Michiel Ceulers’s textured multi-frame displays. She also reflects on Mark Leckey’s nostalgic critique of obsolete digital technologies and Jimena Mendoza’s meditative, elegantly simple lines inviting quiet contemplation—each artwork embodying a unique moment of pause and reflection that makes the fair a must-see event.

Aaron Cezar, founding director of the Delfina Foundation, shares his insightful picks for the Sunday Art Fair at Ambika P3 in London, spotlighting works that blur the boundaries between past and future, human and artificial. Highlights include Maxmilian Schmoetzer’s disorienting video "Preliminary Material for 2022," Elliot Dodd’s unsettling film "Limpid and Salubrious" featuring a post-human dialogue on desire, and Melodie Mousset’s visceral sculptures "Organs (Selection)" crafted in metallic and marble finishes. Jimena Mendoza’s evocative ritualistic objects, Raúl Ortega Ayala’s historical x-ray paintings revealing hidden layers beneath classical works, and Geta Bratescu’s intricate collage pieces blending macro landscapes with microscopic views further illustrate a compelling range of artistic experimentation driven by narrative, history, and form.

Figuration in painting is making a vibrant comeback, with galleries worldwide showcasing bold, innovative depictions of the human form. Phaidon’s new Vitamin P3 highlights 108 contemporary painters, including 56 focused on figuration, among them three remarkable women redefining the genre. Ella Kruglyanskaya bursts onto the scene with vivid colors and exaggerated female forms that convey fierce emotion and modern feminine tensions through dynamic, comic-inspired compositions. Mernet Larsen offers a different approach, blending narrative figuration with still life and geometric distortion to create surreal, suspended moments imbued with emotional complexity. Meanwhile, Louisa Gagliardi merges contemporary surrealism with digital aesthetics, crafting haunting, mutable portraits that evoke the loneliness of the digital age despite its hyper-connectivity. Together, these artists illuminate the evolving dialogue between the human figure, identity, and contemporary culture.

EXPO Chicago continues to shine as the Midwest’s premier art fair, unveiling a stunning array of groundbreaking artists this year. Highlights include Nate Young, whose symbolic, quasi-religious sculptures delve into spirituality and semiotics, and Kim Dingle, a figurative painter making a powerful comeback with politically charged works portraying complex narratives. James Crosby impresses with his thought-provoking sculptures inspired by African-American inventor Garrett Morgan, while Yukultji Napangati brings the rich traditions of Australian Aboriginal art to the forefront through vibrant, ancestral paintings. Finally, Blair Thurman captivates with his high-octane automotive-inspired pieces that echo America’s car culture, reflecting a thrilling resurgence in his dynamic career. This edition of EXPO Chicago promises a remarkable journey through diverse artistic voices and visions.

Neo-Expressionism burst onto the art scene in the 1970s and 1980s as a vibrant, emotional revolt against the detached coolness of Pop art and Minimalism, reviving the raw intensity of early 20th-century Expressionism. Artists like Georg Baselitz, Anselm Kiefer, Francesco Clemente, and Julian Schnabel embraced distorted forms, instinctual brushwork, and vivid color to channel deep personal and collective emotions, confronting history, identity, and trauma with fierce urgency. Baselitz’s upside-down figures unsettle and invite introspection, while Kiefer’s haunting canvases confront Germany’s dark past with layers of symbolic material. Clemente’s fragmented self-portraits explore inner psychic landscapes, and Schnabel’s work electrifies the tradition with bold textures and postmodern twists. Together, these artists reclaimed painting as a powerful tool for expressing the tumultuous human spirit amid a rapidly changing world.

Sculpture in the modern era has continually evolved, reflecting the emotional, political, and social concerns of its time. From Rodin’s expressive figures to Judd’s minimalist forms, today’s artists embrace a diverse, anything-goes approach that addresses themes like alienation, gender, conflict, and displacement. This selection of significant 21st-century sculptures highlights how artists such as Giuseppe Penone, Danh Vo, Nairy Baghramian, and others use their work to explore personal histories, cultural identity, social inclusion, and the relationship between humans and nature. Whether through carved trees, found objects, or abstract forms, these sculptures challenge traditional boundaries and invite viewers to reconsider the evolving role and meaning of sculpture in contemporary life.

New York’s Museum of Modern Art has unveiled a free online archive showcasing over 3,500 exhibitions since its 1929 founding, providing an unparalleled dive into the history of modern and contemporary art. From its groundbreaking early shows that championed Cubism, Surrealism, and Modernist architecture, to landmark exhibitions like the 1939 Picasso retrospective and Philip Johnson’s visionary Modern Architecture display, MoMA’s archives reveal the museum’s pivotal role in shaping American art culture. Highlights include transformative exhibitions of industrial design, prehistoric influences on modern art, and innovative ventures like selling affordable household items during the Great Depression. This treasure trove offers art lovers and historians a captivating perspective on the visionary curatorial spirit that helped redefine 20th-century art and design.

New York Fashion Week’s Spring 2017 runway showcased some strikingly art-inspired looks that seemed to blur the lines between fashion and fine art. From Gypsy Sport channeling Alexander Gorlizki’s intricate patterns to Christian Siriano echoing the textures of Bill McDowell’s photography, designers appeared to draw bold inspiration from contemporary artworks. These creative duos paired runway styles with pieces by artists like Isabelle Fein, Maria Stabio, Chelsea Culprit, and Beverly Semmes, turning the catwalk into a vibrant gallery of wearable masterpieces. Whether it was Tadashi Shoji’s floral motifs or Marc Jacobs’ magical vibes, the collection celebrated a playful dialogue between fabric and canvas, proving that matching your outfit to art might just be the ultimate fashion statement.

Exploring the tension between fate and choice, this article presents a compelling selection of artworks that feel almost predestined to captivate you—ranging from irresistibly affordable pieces to high-end treasures worth splurging on. From Jack Pierson’s poetic found lettering evoking American noir to Christian Marclay’s vibrant photogravure capturing comic-book sound effects in visual form, the spectrum is rich and varied. Emerging digital artist Adham Faramawy’s serene color gradients contrast beautifully with Sean Scully’s sophisticated abstractions prized by global collectors. Meanwhile, Julia Wachtel’s four-decade-spanning mashups resonate with both contemporary and postwar sensibilities, and Hernan Bas’s moody charcoal drawing channels the romantic intensity of a bygone era. Whether steal or splurge, each work beckons as a powerful, enchanting addition to your personal collection.

The 2016 Taipei Biennial offers art lovers a perfect excuse to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene, which beautifully reflects Taiwan’s rich blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian influences. From the innovative bistronomy of André Chiang’s RAW, showcasing micro-seasonal local produce in a sculptural setting, to the exquisite, market-driven creations at Shoun RyuGin, an extension of Tokyo’s three-Michelin-starred flagship, Taipei’s dining options are diverse and exceptional. MUME stands out with its New Nordic-inspired techniques using Taiwan’s unique ingredients, while Shi-Yang offers a cozy, tatami-mat ambiance paired with remarkable multi-course meals. For a more casual experience, Chuo Yin Shi combines craft beer culture with local art and spicy braised snacks, creating a hip and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements the city’s dynamic spirit during the Biennial.

John Varvatos, hailed as “the quintessential American designer,” built his iconic men’s fashion brand by blending simplicity with deep roots in Detroit’s punk scene. Influenced by the raw style of Iggy and the Stooges, Varvatos’s vision prioritizes enduring style over fleeting fashion trends, creating timeless pieces that resonate with the spirit of rock and roll and rebellion. From his early days photographing local musicians to working at Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein—where he famously helped launch the boxer brief—Varvatos’s journey reveals a passion for music-driven style, authenticity, and a uniquely American aesthetic that continues to inspire.

Grace Coddington, the visionary creative director behind American Vogue's iconic imagery for over two decades, shares her insights on five of her most trusted fashion photographers, revealing the distinct styles and personalities behind their work. From David Sims’ minimalist, attitude-filled studio shots to Annie Leibovitz’s cinematic, deeply planned narratives featuring stars like Keira Knightley and Lady Gaga, each photographer brings a unique lens to fashion storytelling. Mario Testino's vibrant, spirited images capture the joy and intimacy of his subjects, often blending family warmth with high fashion, while the bold duo Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott craft ultra-glamorous, surreal pinups that blend flawless technique with vivid, painterly aesthetics. Lastly, Arthur Elgort infuses spontaneity and Americana charm into his lively, moment-driven photographs, capturing playful, authentic scenes that uplift and inspire. Through Coddington’s reflections, we glimpse the magic behind the lens that shapes the world of fashion imagery.

Marina Abramović, the pioneering force in performance art, reflects on her radical career that transforms the body into a medium of profound expression. From her disciplined childhood in Belgrade to groundbreaking early works exploring destruction, time, and sound, she reveals how her art challenges boundaries and confronts physical and mental limits. Abramović’s performances defy convention, embracing danger, pain, and vulnerability to evoke presence and consciousness. She discusses the evolution of performance art, its documentation, and the complex relationship between artist, audience, and memory. Throughout, she emphasizes creating a transformative space that elevates the spirit, explores ritualistic and mythological themes, and continually pushes the limits of endurance and awareness in pursuit of truth and connection across cultures and time.

New York’s vibrant gallery scene is alive with captivating exhibitions showcasing a diverse range of artistic voices and styles. From Jonas Wood’s intricate, Impressionistic studio portrait of Mark Grotjahn to Jeff Elrod’s digitally inspired abstract canvases that blur the boundaries between virtual and painterly spaces, the city offers a feast for art lovers. Highlights include Suellen Rocca’s vivid Chicago Imagist works evoking femininity through symbolic patterns, Carolee Schneemann’s groundbreaking feminist performance piece *Interior Scroll*, and Rashid Johnson’s textured, politically charged wall installations rich with references to identity and diaspora. Meanwhile, Allison Schulnik’s textured, whimsical depictions of mythical creatures, Lynda Benglis’s haunting sculptures inspired by desert geology, and Simon Denny’s conceptual blockchain-themed installations reflect the innovative breadth of contemporary art. Leonardo Drew’s monumental, ruin-like wooden assemblages invite contemplation on history and memory, while Matthew Barney’s surreal, body-themed Vaseline sculpture pushes the boundaries of materiality and meaning. Together, these exhibitions demonstrate why Chelsea remains a dynamic hub where bold narratives and experimental forms converge to engage and challenge audiences.

Fashion Week in New York shines a spotlight not just on the latest styles but also on the pioneering women behind the camera who have reshaped fashion photography. Once dominated by male legends, the industry’s female trailblazers—like Corinne Day, who introduced the raw, unpolished aesthetic of Kate Moss; Deborah Turbeville’s haunting dreamscapes; and Ellen von Unwerth’s provocative yet empowering images—have profoundly influenced fashion’s visual language. From Eve Arnold’s natural light portraits that blend respect with intimacy, to Frances McLaughlin-Gill’s candid, youthful spirit and Lee Miller’s wartime glamour, these photographers challenged conventions and celebrated complexity beyond mere sexualization. With talents like Lillian Bassman’s moody elegance, Louise Dahl-Wolfe’s sunlit modernity, Sarah Moon’s ethereal surrealism, and Toni Frissell’s effortless outdoor charm, these women crafted some of the most iconic fashion imagery, revealing strength, vulnerability, and innovation through their lenses.

John Baldessari revolutionized art by transforming simple gestures—like hitting objects with a golf club or marking faces in vintage film stills with dots—into profound conceptual statements. His radical approach ignited the careers of a generation of artists, including David Salle and others from the famed CalArts scene, who continue exploring similar conceptual territories. This collection highlights contemporary artists inspired by Baldessari’s playful and thought-provoking style, featuring Alice Quaresma’s geometric abstractions over landscapes, John Andrew’s text-and-sound sculptures, Alex McQuilkin’s nuanced explorations of femininity, and Bill McDowell’s haunting use of archival negatives. Together, they carry forward Baldessari’s legacy of bending expectations and expanding what art can be.

Swedish artist Jonas Lund critically navigates the complex intersection of art and the market through a trilogy of innovative exhibitions that blend conceptual rigor with process-based creativity. From embedding GPS trackers in paintings to monitor their resale and enforcing legally binding terms of ownership, to transforming his artworks into a bartering platform adorned with sponsor logos, Lund exposes the shifting nature of the art economy—from speculative hype to a post-market reality. His work playfully critiques and subverts traditional systems by redefining the value and control of art, raising profound questions about creative integrity, financialization, and the elusive magic that makes art resonate beyond mere market forces. Through these projects, Lund invites us to reconsider how art can function within, and beyond, the tangled relationships of commerce, ownership, and cultural relevance.

Born in the 1990s alongside the rise of the internet and virtual connectivity, the Relational Aesthetics movement revolutionized art by shifting focus from traditional art objects to interactive, participatory experiences that foster human connections. Coined by curator Nicolas Bourriaud, this approach invites audiences to become active participants, as seen in Rirkrit Tiravanija’s iconic "Pad Thai," where cooking and sharing food replaced passive viewing. Other artists like Pierre Huyghe and Liam Gillick explored community rituals and architectural interactions, while Vanessa Beecroft blurred lines between art and fashion with live models as living sculptures. Despite its innovation, the movement faced critique for often reinforcing existing elite art circles, a challenge countered by Thomas Hirschhorn’s socially engaged works like the "Bataille Monument," which empowered marginalized communities to actively participate and debate within temporary, grassroots art spaces. Relational Aesthetics pushed the boundaries of art, making human relationships and collective experience the heart of creative expression.

Grace Coddington, the iconic creative director of U.S. Vogue, has shaped contemporary fashion photography with her poetic and whimsical vision that often features redheaded models in otherworldly settings. Her new book, *Grace: The American Vogue Years*, celebrates 15 years of her work in the U.S., blending genteel Americana with meticulous attention to the clothes themselves. Despite the digital age’s innovations, Grace remains a devoted advocate of film photography’s magic, skeptical of the selfie culture and social media frenzy, though she admires the playful spirit of modern style icons. Living quietly in the Hamptons, surrounded by vintage photographs and her beloved cats, she balances a public persona marked by her signature carrot-red hair with an enduring desire for anonymity. Grace’s unapologetically authentic approach continues to influence fashion storytelling, proving that true modernity lies not in trends but in timeless originality.

Madonna’s art collection, amassed since her early days in New York amidst icons like Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, reflects her deep connection to powerful visual expression. Valued at over $100 million, her collection isn’t just about investment or decoration—it’s a source of strength and inspiration that fuels her creative persona. From Man Ray’s avant-garde works and Cindy Sherman’s thought-provoking film stills that inspired her infamous *Sex* book, to Picasso’s modernist pieces and Damien Hirst’s contemplations on life and death, Madonna curates art that echoes her bold, transformative spirit. Her ties to contemporary artists like Tracey Emin and Marilyn Minter further reveal a passion for raw, provocative themes of identity, femininity, and rebellion. Whether featuring Salvador Dalí’s surreal visions or Collier Schorr’s challenging portraits, Madonna’s collection is as iconic and boundary-pushing as the Queen of Pop herself.

Danish artist duo Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset have forged a remarkable creative partnership marked by unexpected, provocative, and theatrical works that blur the boundaries between disciplines such as sculpture, architecture, theater, and performance. Since their meeting in 1995, they have crafted iconic installations like the eerie Venice Biennale collectors’ house and the surreal Prada Marfa store in the Texas desert, challenging power structures and inviting intimate, open-ended audience experiences. Their work often explores themes of social power, oppression, and identity, exemplified by their poignant Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism in Berlin. As they prepare to curate the 2017 Istanbul Biennial, Elmgreen & Dragset emphasize fostering spaces where artists can shine without rigid thematic constraints, promoting dialogue and coexistence amid complex political landscapes. Through their visionary projects, they continue to redefine art's role in society, blending humor, pathos, and critical reflection to create immersive spectacles that provoke thought and emotional resonance.

Artist Robin Kang merges her Southwestern roots with cutting-edge technology to transform the ancient art of weaving into a contemporary exploration of memory, process, and digital culture. Using a rare Norwegian-designed digital Jacquard loom that blends hand weaving with computerized precision, Kang creates intricate tapestries depicting microchips, motherboards, and other technological motifs. Her work draws fascinating parallels between the history of textiles and early computing—highlighting weaving’s role in data storage and its spiritual significance in indigenous cultures. Through this innovative fusion, Kang challenges perceptions of technology and craft, inviting us to consider the tactile, imperfect nature of human creativity within a rapidly digitizing world.

Post-Minimalism emerged in the late 1960s as a bold departure from the rigid geometry and industrial materials of Minimalism, embracing irregular, organic forms and emphasizing the artist’s process and emotional expression. Key figures like Eva Hesse, Jackie Winsor, Lynda Benglis, Robert Morris, and Richard Serra challenged traditional sculpture by highlighting materiality, gravity, and the physical actions involved in creation. Works such as Hesse’s fragile latex sculptures and Serra’s dynamic molten lead pieces underscore how Post-Minimalism brought a human, vulnerable, and experimental dimension to art, rekindling the artist’s presence and process in the final work. This movement’s innovative strategies continue to influence contemporary art by blending conceptual depth with tactile immediacy.

Aaron Curry’s upcoming exhibition at Michael Werner marks a vibrant return to painting for the Los Angeles-based artist known primarily for his playful, Modernist-inspired sculptures. Drawing from his formative years in San Antonio and his education with the Chicago Imagists, Curry’s work melds skate culture, sci-fi, and art history into a dynamic visual language that bursts with color and texture. Reflecting on his artistic journey—from early influences like album covers and skateboard graphics, to the challenges of art school and evolving studio practices—Curry reveals how painting has always been central to his practice, recently rekindled after a period of creative burnout. His new canvases, informed by themes of cosmology and drought-era Los Angeles, are layered, exploratory, and imbued with a fearless energy that captures both personal introspection and universal wonder. In this show, Curry invites viewers to embrace spontaneity and abstraction, demonstrating that his artistic “headspace” is as expansive and inventive as ever.

The first sixteen years of the 21st century have seen a vibrant explosion in contemporary sculpture, showcasing a rich diversity of styles and media as artists navigate a rapidly changing, interconnected world. From Marcelo Cidade’s concrete blocks immobilized in a trolley, reflecting urban Modernism and socio-political commentary, to Andreas Slominski’s playful yet cerebral traps that lure viewers into intellectual puzzles, this selection highlights innovative approaches. Ugo Rondinone’s melancholy clay heads ponder time and fantasy, while Isa Genzken’s fabric-wrapped skyscraper memorializes destruction with humor and hope. Andro Wekua’s haunting wax figure captures childhood solitude, Tony Cragg’s layered plywood sculpture explores introspection, and Joana Vasconcelos’s ornate helicopter blends historical opulence with feminist critique. Nicholas Hlobo’s use of leather and lace evokes cultural identity and gender fluidity, Yto Barrada’s work maps socio-political landscapes through botanical symbolism, and Sarah Lucas transforms everyday materials into polished bronze nods to Modernist masters. Together, these works reveal the dynamic ways contemporary sculpture reflects and reshapes our experience of the modern world.

Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans and Marilyn Monroe portraits stand as iconic pillars of Pop Art, transforming everyday consumer goods and celebrity imagery into bold, culturally resonant artworks. Beginning with his meticulously painted series of soup cans, Warhol pioneered the use of serial imagery and mechanical reproduction techniques, challenging traditional notions of art and meaning through repetition. His fascination with celebrity reached a poignant peak after Marilyn Monroe’s death, inspiring a groundbreaking series of silkscreen portraits that blended vibrant colors with photographic imagery to explore fame, beauty, and mortality. These works not only propelled Warhol to fame but also redefined the relationship between art, commerce, and popular culture, cementing his legacy as the mastermind who turned the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Art schools have long been celebrated as hubs of creativity and learning but are often costly and not always practical. Luckily, this curated syllabus offers an accessible and enriching alternative, featuring essential essays and books by some of the world’s most influential artists and critics. From Clement Greenberg and Harold Rosenberg’s seminal debates on Abstract Expressionism to Rosalind Krauss’s groundbreaking theories on sculpture, and Walter Benjamin’s insights on art and reproduction, this collection covers key movements and ideas. It also includes practical guides like Herbert George’s *The Elements of Sculpture*, contemporary perspectives in *Painting Today*, and the comprehensive *30,000 Years of Art* for a deep dive into art history. For those interested in institutional critique, Andrea Fraser’s provocative work challenges the dynamics of the art market, while Daniel Buren expands thinking about studio practice. This thoughtfully assembled reading list, enhanced by contributions from celebrated educators such as Marina Abramovic and Miranda July, provides a dynamic and self-directed path to mastering contemporary and historical art knowledge without the burden of traditional tuition.

The inaugural Code Art Fair in Copenhagen showcased a vibrant mix of international and local contemporary art, highlighting a range of innovative approaches and emotional depth. From Sophie Dupont’s mesmerizing performance art featuring shimmering golden body sculptures to Tobias Spichtig’s haunting resin-covered textiles evoking ghostly social presences, the fair was a rich tapestry of creative voices. Notable works included Pennacchio Argentato’s intricate epoxy resin and digital transfers, Louis Reith’s eco-conscious assemblages inspired by Bauhaus minimalism, and Anna Fasshauer’s vividly painted industrial sculptures recalling automotive modernism. The event also revived appreciation for artists like Henrik Plenge Jakobsen with his shamanistic ceremonial props and Wilhelm Klotzen’s poignant cigarette-themed figures symbolizing human frailty. Silas Inoue’s framed wolf drawings deftly explored cultural constraints on nature, while Oliver Hussein’s dynamic ink-and-spray-paint compositions continued a fresh exploration of two-dimensionality. Together, these diverse pieces embodied the forward-thinking energy and artistic rigor that distinguish Copenhagen’s flourishing art scene.

Ai Weiwei, one of the most influential contemporary Chinese artists, shares a profound journey through his childhood amid political upheaval, his formative years steeped in hardship and censorship, and his bold emergence as a dissident artist and activist. From growing up in the remote Xinjiang Province under the shadow of the Cultural Revolution to his education at Beijing Film Academy and his restless years in New York’s avant-garde scene, Ai chronicles his evolving artistic practices—from early drawings and paintings to conceptual sculptures and installations inspired by Dada and Fluxus. His work merges personal history, political critique, and social activism, reflecting on memory, freedom, and the power of art to challenge authoritarianism. As a curator, architect, and prolific blogger, Ai transforms both physical and virtual spaces into arenas of dialogue and resistance, continuously shaping global contemporary art with radical ideas and an unyielding spirit.

Surrealism, one of the most captivating and mysterious art movements of the early 20th century, defies traditional logic by exploring dreams, intuition, and the marvelous hidden beneath everyday reality. Originating in Paris and inspired by Freudian ideas, Surrealists sought to unleash the unconscious through automatic writing, experimental techniques, and visual art that captured the fantastical and uncanny. From Max Ernst’s evocative collages to Meret Oppenheim’s provocative objects, and from Joan Miró’s symbolic dreamscapes to Dalí and Magritte’s hauntingly realistic dream imagery, Surrealism challenged perceptions of time, space, and meaning. By embracing contradiction, ambiguity, and the surreal interstices between waking and dreaming, the movement revolutionized not only art but also the way we understand reality itself.

Choosing artwork that complements your home's color scheme can transform your space with ease and style. This guide breaks down the fundamentals of color theory—from the subtle variations of tints, shades, and tones in monochromatic palettes to the harmonious blend of analogous colors that create calm or energetic vibes. Discover how complementary colors, sitting opposite each other on the color wheel, create striking contrasts that make your art pop, or use vibrant triadic combinations for a lively, balanced look. Whether you prefer bold splashes of color or the understated elegance of neutrals, mastering these color strategies will help you curate a visually stunning, cohesive environment that reflects your personal taste.

The early twentieth century was a whirlwind of radical art movements, none quite as delightfully irreverent as Dada, the international “anti-art” collective that challenged the very notions of taste and artistic sanctity. Emerging during a time of global upheaval, Dada was less a style and more a rebellious mentality expressed through chaotic performances, satirical collages, playful poetry, and provocative “Ready-mades.” From Hannah Höch’s incisive photo montages critiquing post-war Germany to Marcel Duchamp’s infamous Fountain that turned everyday objects into art, Dada shattered conventions and blurred the boundaries between art and life. This movement’s playful subversion and relentless questioning of art’s purpose left an indelible mark, influencing Surrealism and redefining how we measure creativity and existence itself.

Art dealers often wear many hats—sometimes literally, as artists themselves. From pioneering figures like Alfred Stieglitz and Betty Parsons, who played key roles in introducing Abstract Expressionism, to contemporary dealers such as Joel Mesler and Gavin Brown, these individuals navigate the art world both as curators and creators. Mesler’s witty figurative paintings humorously explore his dual identity, while Gavin Brown’s inventive projects range from photographs to installations. Laura Owens blends traditional painting with digital silkscreens in immersive environments, and Margaret Lee’s sci-fi-inspired sculptures challenge digital estrangement. Sarah Brahman crafts large-scale geometric sculptures from found materials, echoing punk’s rebellious spirit, while Jesse Greenberg’s fluid urethane forms hover between organic and technological. Together, these dealer-artists illustrate the dynamic interplay between selling and making art, enriching the contemporary scene with their multifaceted engagement.

From the serene mountain vistas of Wang Hui’s 17th-century Chinese scrolls to Helen Frankenthaler’s pioneering Abstract Expressionist landscapes, this exploration of landscape painting unveils the diverse ways artists have captured nature’s grandeur and subtlety. Journey through poetic Alpine scenes by John Robert Cozens, bold geometric forms in Paul Cézanne’s Mont Sainte-Victoire, tranquil Impressionist studies by Camille Pissarro, and symbolic, rhythmic compositions from Ferdinand Hodler. Each artist reimagines the natural world—from the intimate moonlit beach of Léon Spilliaert to John Marin’s architectural seascapes—revealing a rich tapestry of styles that celebrate the beauty, drama, and emotion found in the great outdoors. Whether rooted in tradition or bursting with innovation, these masterpieces invite us to see nature anew and inspire a deeper appreciation for the landscapes that shape our lives.

Mikkel Carl, a dynamic figure in the contemporary art world, balances creating and exhibiting his own work with curating and advisory roles, including at the Danish Arts Foundation and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Art. As part of the select curatorial team for the Code Art Fair in Copenhagen, he presents “Danmark,” an exhibition highlighting Danish artists without gallery representation. Carl spotlights compelling works from artists like Tiril Hasselknippe, whose theatrical, post-minimalist approach transforms raw materials; Johanne Hestevold, whose windshields challenge notions of authenticity; and Alina Chaiderov, whose provocative pieces revitalize familiar metaphors. He also highlights the innovative practices of Jonas Lund, Rafaël Rozendaal, and Ry David Bradley, inviting art lovers to experience the fair’s vibrant mix of media and ideas firsthand.

Elizabeth Tenenbaum, renowned New York-based art advisor and director of the curatorial platform Syzygy, shares her insightful picks from Artspace's exclusive Code Art Fair preview in Copenhagen. Highlighting emerging trends, she spotlights Joseph Montgomery’s innovative pigment transfers on canvas, Samantha Bittman’s exquisite fusion of hand-woven textiles and paint, and Andreas Albrectsen’s conceptually rich drawings blending music and movement. Tenenbaum also praises Robert Burnier’s intimate, paper-like aluminum sculptures, Yung Jake’s clever mashup of hip-hop and digital culture, and Josh Reames’s surreal, playful canvases, all demonstrating the vibrant, boundary-pushing energy alive in contemporary art today.

In a candid and wide-ranging conversation with Barbara Bloom, South African artist Marlene Dumas reflects on her complex relationship with art, identity, and perception. She explores themes of ambiguity, the interplay between intimacy and distance in her work, and the tension between narrative suggestion and open interpretation. Dumas discusses how her art invites viewers into a dialogue, offering a false sense of closeness while resisting fixed meanings. She challenges traditional hierarchies and embraces imperfection and multiplicity, illustrating how her experiences as a woman, a blonde, an exile, and a painter intertwine. Through humor, ethics, and a fearless examination of beauty, ugliness, and power, Dumas reveals art as a space to wrestle with contradictions and embrace the richness of human complexity.

British photographer Martin Parr, renowned for his vivid and candid depictions of everyday life, brings his unmistakable style to a limited-edition signed 500-piece jigsaw puzzle featuring one of his iconic crowded beach scenes. Celebrated for capturing the rhythms of middle and working-class communities and their humble pleasures, Parr’s work transforms leisurely pastimes into interactive art experiences perfect for the whole family. For those eager to dive deeper, Phaidon’s comprehensive monograph offers a stunning collection of his photography, available in special signed editions that include exclusive numbered prints, making these collectibles a must-have for admirers of his vibrant, provocative vision.

The Nordic countries—Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland—are a thriving hub for innovative and provocative artists, blending picturesque landscapes with progressive policies and robust support for the arts. As the CODE Art Fair in Copenhagen approaches, ten notable Nordic artists stand out: Norway's Bjarne Melgaard challenges norms with his expressive and often controversial works; Danish-born Nina Beier repurposes everyday objects to explore socio-historical meanings; Swedish artist Jonas Lund critiques the art market with his GPS-tracked paintings; and rising star Ida Ekblad fuses graffiti, expressionism, and found objects. Celebrated figures like Tal R blend avant-garde tradition with vibrant palettes, while Tom of Finland’s iconic homoerotic imagery reshaped queer visual culture. Others, such as Hanna Liden, Olafur Elíasson, Per Kirkeby, and the duo Elmgreen & Dragset, captivate audiences through haunting photography, immersive environmental art, geological abstractions, and witty public installations, collectively demonstrating the rich, diverse creative spirit fueling the Nordic art scene today.

Renowned architect Peter Marino, celebrated for his daring style and leather-clad persona, seamlessly blends contemporary art with luxury design in his transformative projects for brands like Christian Dior and Louis Vuitton. From commissioning Sol LeWitt’s meticulous wall drawings in a Palm Beach residence to James Turrell’s evolving light installation at Louis Vuitton’s iconic Champs-Elysées store, Marino uses art to elevate environments and captivate audiences. His collaborations extend to vibrant, large-scale works by John Armleder for Hublot and Vik Muniz’s intricate currency-based Alpine landscape for a Swiss retreat, each piece uniquely tailored to its setting. Marino’s trust and vision also brought Belgian artist Wim Delvoye’s evocative X-ray stained-glass window into a San Francisco home, fusing intimate humanity with architectural innovation. Through these groundbreaking partnerships, Marino redefines luxury spaces as immersive galleries where art and architecture coalesce in spectacular harmony.

Peter Marino, the iconic leather-clad architect, has redefined luxury spaces by seamlessly merging architecture with contemporary art, commissioning over 250 site-specific works that transform galleries, private residences, and high-end retail environments. Beginning his career with giants like I. M. Pei and receiving early commissions from Andy Warhol, Marino developed a unique approach that places art at the heart of his designs, often reshaping spaces to highlight and elevate the artists' creations. His collaborations with renowned and emerging artists alike have broadened the reach of contemporary art beyond traditional institutions, bringing it into dynamic, lived environments seen by millions worldwide. Celebrated not only for his visionary design but also for fostering creative dialogue, Marino continues to push the boundaries of art patronage, championing innovation and artistic freedom in every project he undertakes.

The Bauhaus, founded in 1919 by Walter Gropius in Weimar, Germany, revolutionized art and design with its bold modernist vision, blending craftsmanship, industrial progress, and interdisciplinary innovation. Emphasizing a fusion of beauty and function, the school fostered creativity through workshops led by masters like Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Oskar Schlemmer, who explored the spiritual and abstract in art. From Klee’s rhythmic, stained-glass-inspired paintings to Kandinsky’s cosmic geometric studies, and Moholy-Nagy’s industrial enamel constructions, Bauhaus challenged traditional handmade art by embracing modern technology and mass production. The school’s iconic Dessau building symbolized a vibrant, collaborative community, whose ideas continue to echo through contemporary design and artistic practice.

Amid the global excitement of the Rio Olympics, artist Marc Ohrem-Leclef reveals the untold story of the city's favelas, where over 4,000 families were forcibly evicted to make way for the Games’ infrastructure. Through his powerful project *Olympic Favela*, featuring striking portraits and a short film, Ohrem-Leclef captures the humanity, resilience, and resistance of those displaced, challenging the passive narratives often seen in the media. Using symbolic imagery like emergency flares as torches, his work highlights both desperation and strength, telling deeply personal stories of families fighting to remain in their homes despite political and economic turmoil. Exhibited in a New York gallery and documented in a book, these images invite viewers to confront the complex realities beneath the Olympic spectacle, honoring the dignity and spirit of a marginalized community determined to be seen.

From Giacomo Balla's vibrant Futurist suits challenging the dullness of post-WWI fashion to Salvador Dalí's surreal collaborations with Elsa Schiaparelli, art and apparel have long intertwined in bold and imaginative ways. Henri Matisse transformed traditional liturgical vestments into colorful masterpieces, while Frida Kahlo’s eclectic wardrobe reveals her resilience and defiant style. Louise Bourgeois infused textiles with raw emotion, cutting up clothes to explore what we choose to hide, and Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol turned everyday jackets into iconic canvases of the 80s art scene. Meanwhile, Nick Cave’s vibrant Soundsuits conceal identity and celebrate movement, and K8 Hardy’s recycled fashion critiques consumerism through playful innovation. These wearable sculptures transcend dress codes, turning the body into a living, moving gallery.

Over the past decade, New York-based art advisory SLP has cultivated some of the most distinguished private art collections in the U.S., catering to discerning “collector connoisseurs” who act as patrons of the arts. Founder Sheri Pasquarella recently expanded SLP to San Francisco, focusing on broadening access to contemporary art through diverse pricing and engagement. Highlighting Minimalism as an approachable entry into art collecting, Pasquarella emphasizes its rich history and versatility, blending art, design, and nature to create vibrant, harmonious spaces. She shares insightful tips on incorporating texture, color, natural elements, text, and unexpected pieces to keep Minimalist collections dynamic and inviting rather than cold or sterile, inviting collectors of all levels to explore the depth and beauty of this influential movement.

Discover six irresistible artworks that promise to transform your living space, from steal-worthy lithographs by Katharina Grosse and Paul Strand to splurge-worthy masterpieces by Ellsworth Kelly, Ed Ruscha, and Alexander Calder. Whether you’re drawn to Grosse’s vibrant abstract landscapes, Ed Atkins’ cutting-edge multimedia prints, or the timeless elegance of Kelly’s compositions, this curated selection offers something for every art enthusiast eager to own pieces that combine bold creativity, cultural significance, and enduring appeal. Don’t just admire from afar—these are works you’ll feel an uncontrollable urge to bring home.

Andy Warhol transformed modern art by turning everyday commercial images and celebrity culture into iconic artworks, making art itself a commodity. Echoing his bold use of graphic styles and vibrant colors, contemporary artists like Deborah Kass, Peter Dayton, Bill Claps, Wolfe Von Lenkiewicz, and Yung Jake continue to explore themes of appropriation, consumerism, and cultural mythology. From Kass’s feminist critiques and Dayton’s vivid floral imagery to Claps’s digital-age commentary and Von Lenkiewicz’s fusion of historical references, these artists reinterpret pop culture with fresh perspectives, while Yung Jake merges hip hop and social media aesthetics, keeping Warhol’s spirit alive in the digital age.

The 2016 Rio Olympics bring not only thrilling sports but also a vibrant culinary scene that’s sure to delight any food lover. From the chic Casa Momus tucked in a colonial house in Lapa, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and inventive cocktails, to the Michelin-starred Lasai where chef Rafa Costa e Silva crafts immaculate plates with locally sourced ingredients, Rio’s gourmet landscape is buzzing. Industrial-chic Usina 47 near Leblon invites young crowds to enjoy refreshing caipirinhas and lively samba, while Puro serves up creative comfort food and stunning views of the Botanical Gardens and Christ the Redeemer. Meanwhile, Uniko in the rejuvenated Centro district offers a sophisticated yet relaxed Italian menu amid a beautifully restored historic building, making these five hotspots must-visits for palate-pleasing adventures in the Marvelous City.

Op Art, short for Optical Art, emerged in the 1960s as a captivating movement that challenged viewers' perception through vibrant geometric patterns that seem to shimmer, swirl, or move. Rooted in advances in psychology and visual science, Op Art engages the spectator in a dynamic interplay between eye and brain, sometimes even provoking physical reactions like dizziness. Pioneered by artists such as Bridget Riley, Victor Vasarely, and Julian Stanczak, the movement redefined painting by making the viewer’s experience central to the artwork’s effect. While initially met with skepticism, Op Art’s mesmerizing illusions left a lasting impact on both art and design, proving that what we see is not always what we believe.

British artist Eddie Peake, known for his provocative and boundary-pushing work, blends physicality, pop culture, and personal narrative into a dynamic artistic practice spanning performance, painting, sculpture, and video. Rising to prominence with his 2012 performance "Touch," featuring nude men playing soccer, Peake explores themes of sensuality, incongruity, and mass entertainment with humor and intensity. His exhibitions, such as 2015’s "The Forever Loop," weave together diverse media to create immersive, often charged experiences that highlight the tension between the intimate and the public. Revering live performance as an unreplicable encounter between artist and viewer, Peake refuses to dilute its impact through documentation. Deeply autobiographical yet playful, his work also embraces the spectrum of high and low culture, from art theory to rave aesthetics. Always evolving, Peake continues to challenge perceptions through collaborations and new projects, including a vibrant print series celebrating the Rio Olympics that captures the disparate allure of athleticism and spectacle.

As Rio de Janeiro prepared to welcome the world for the 2016 Summer Olympics, attention turns from the games to one of the city’s architectural gems: the Palácio Gustavo Capanema. Celebrated as the first true Modernist building in the Americas, this iconic complex showcases the visionary work of Brazilian architects like Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, all guided by the legendary Le Corbusier. The palace integrates striking site-specific artworks by renowned painters such as Cândido Portinari, whose tile panels and murals reflect local maritime themes and Brazil’s economic development. Complementing the architecture, the groundbreaking landscape design by Roberto Burle Marx features native plants arranged in abstract and constructivist forms, harmonizing art, nature, and modern design in a celebration of Brazilian culture. Visitors to Rio during the Games won’t want to miss this uniquely vibrant fusion of art, architecture, and history.

Carol Bove’s limited-edition print Netting (2009-2010) exemplifies her signature assemblage style, blending found objects like peacock feathers with sleek concrete and metal forms. Renowned for incorporating fine silver chain nets into her work, Bove transforms these delicate materials into striking sculptures that blur the line between natural and industrial. This signed print is part of a curated portfolio supporting emerging curators through London’s Cubitt Gallery, a hub for contemporary art that champions new talent and innovative exhibitions.

Rockaway Beach is a unique East Coast enclave blending laid-back California surfer vibes with a vibrant, cutting-edge art scene shaped by resilience and creativity in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Known as the "poor-man's Hamptons," this Queens peninsula attracts artists and cultural figures who transform its distinctive landscape—from abandoned naval bunkers to houseboat communities—into dynamic canvases for innovative exhibitions, performances, and installations. Visitors can explore intriguing art projects like Katharina Grosse's site-specific work at Fort Tilden, experience experimental exhibitions aboard marina houseboats, and discover the area's rich history, including the abandoned Art Deco Floyd Bennett Field airport. Whether soaking up sun on the beach or diving into Rockaway’s thriving underground art culture, this coastal community offers a captivating blend of escape, creativity, and history.

Brooklyn-based sculptor Gustavo Prado shares an intimate, step-by-step journey of creating his commissioned installation, *Daphne’s Eyes*, at the Drake Hotel Devonshire in Prince Edward's County. Inspired by the natural setting—a tree poised between the hotel and Lake Ontario’s beach—and challenged to preserve the tree without drilling, Prado ingeniously suspended the sculpture from branches, allowing mirrors to reflect the sunlight and surrounding landscape throughout the changing seasons. Drawing inspiration from Bernini’s *Apollo and Daphne*, the work captures the myth’s moment of transformation, blending nature, light, and myth into a dynamic, immersive piece that invites viewers to explore the connections between movement, perspective, and storytelling.

Alex Katz's stylized portraits and reductive landscapes helped define an era and influenced the rise of Pop art, but he’s not alone in mastering this distinctive visual language. From Peter Stichbury’s wide-eyed, polished figures exploring themes of alien abduction and virtual identity, to Farhad Moshiri’s fusion of Western pop culture with Middle Eastern aesthetics, these artists create compelling, standout works. Emerging painter Jordan Kasey offers surreal, large-scale figurative paintings full of dreamlike shadows and psychedelic hues, while Neil Welliver captures Maine’s natural beauty in vibrant plein-air landscapes, echoing Katz’s own connection to the region. Finally, Amy Pleasant’s minimalist ink-on-gouache works use negative space with elegant economy, echoing Katz’s focus on line and form. These artists collectively hold their own in the legacy of Katz’s iconic style.

Abstract Expressionism emerged in the 1940s and 1950s as America’s groundbreaking contribution to modern art, blending influences from European modernism with bold gestures, spontaneity, and monumental scale. Centered in New York City, this movement thrived as European émigré artists and American painters like Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Barnett Newman sought to transcend traditional subjects through dynamic, abstract compositions that expressed the artist’s psyche and emotion. Known for “action painting,” the movement emphasized the creative process as much as the finished work, with Pollock’s drip technique capturing public imagination and Rothko’s color fields evoking profound spiritual experiences. This powerful and diverse group, often called the New York School, forever reshaped the landscape of twentieth-century art.

Michael Heizer, a pioneering Land artist from the 1970s, created monumental earthworks in Nevada that blend minimalist subtlety with grand scale, exemplified by his iconic pieces "Double Negative" and the ongoing "City." "Double Negative" features two massive trenches carved into Mormon Mesa, offering a striking interplay of light, shadow, and natural landscape, while "City" is an expansive, still-evolving complex of enormous structures inspired by ancient monuments, sprawling across Garden Valley. Heizer’s work pushes the boundaries of art and environment, inviting viewers to experience the desert landscape in new, profound ways, even as access remains restricted and the future of the project continues to unfold under national monument protection.

In celebration of Hillary Clinton becoming the first woman nominated for the U.S. presidency, we honor ten groundbreaking women artists who have reshaped art history. From Helen Frankenthaler’s pioneering soak-stain technique that fueled the Color Field movement, to Louise Bourgeois’s surreal explorations of sexuality and the subconscious, and Yayoi Kusama’s transformative influence across Pop art and Minimalism, these artists have left an indelible mark. Innovators like Anni Albers brought Modernist ideals to textile design, while Jennifer Bartlett’s monumental works challenged artistic conventions. The Guerrilla Girls sparked vital conversations on sexism in the art world with their bold activism. Adding to this legacy are Leonora Carrington’s surreal images of feminine power, Alice Aycock’s fusion of Land Art and postmodernism, Etel Adnan’s poetic surrealism recognized late in life, and Ida Applebroog’s pioneering feminist art activism. Together, they celebrate the profound impact of women artists across a century of creativity and resistance.

As the Democratic National Convention kicks off amid the lingering drama from the Republican National Convention, why not elevate your viewing experience with artist-designed drinking glasses that blend style and satire? Whether you’re celebrating Hillary Clinton’s nomination or nursing the sting of Bernie Sanders’ loss, these unique sets—from Piet Mondrian’s iconic Neo-Plastic tumblers to Maurizio Cattelan’s playful pastel designs—offer a creative way to toast the moment. Photographer Laurel Nakadate’s glasses capture the emotional highs and lows, while Josef Hoffmann’s elegant crystal adds refined flair to any political drinking game. For a cheeky touch, Rodney Graham’s champagne flutes let you clink glasses in quiet celebration of a Trump-free screen. Cheers to navigating the chaos of convention season in style!

Nan Goldin, one of the most influential and provocative photographers of the 20th century, revolutionized photography with her unflinching, intimate portrayal of life on society’s fringes. Her groundbreaking series, "The Ballad of Sexual Dependency," captures the raw and vibrant underground scene of 1980s New York—filled with drag queens, addicts, and artists—offering a candid glimpse into a world marked by love, loss, and resilience during the AIDS crisis. Rejecting polished aesthetics, Goldin’s snapshot style and emotionally charged images forge a cinematic narrative that reflects honesty over perfection, challenging conventions and inspiring generations of artists. Currently featured at the Modern Museum of Art, her work continues to resonate as a powerful, unvarnished chronicle of marginalized communities and the human spirit.

Raphael, a towering figure of the High Renaissance, continues to inspire artists centuries after his time with masterpieces like The School of Athens and portraits of significant figures such as Pope Julius II. This article highlights ten works that draw fascinating parallels between Raphael’s classic style and themes and those explored by contemporary artists today. From intimate friendships and sacred portraits to iconic representations of the Madonna and striking depictions of notable personalities, these selections reveal how the Old Master’s influence remains vibrantly alive, bridging the gap between past and present artistic expression.

Artists have long harnessed their creative power to confront political issues, sparking dialogue and challenging entrenched beliefs. From Harun Farocki’s gripping surveillance footage exposing prison brutality, to Kara Walker’s provocative silhouettes tackling race and gender, and Emily Jacir’s poignant exploration of displacement under conflict, these works reflect a deep engagement with social realities. Bandi Zhao’s satirical street scenes critique propaganda, while Tracey Emin’s textile pieces weave personal and political histories. Sharon Hayes commemorates past protests to inspire future action, and Ai Weiwei’s intricate fabric map comments on global trade and labor. Raqs Media Collective’s immersive video questions capitalism’s impact, Banksy’s street art harshly critiques housing crises, and Theaster Gates transforms materials linked to civil rights struggles into symbols of community regeneration. Together, these artists illuminate the power of art as a vehicle for political expression and social change in our times.

Fluxus was a groundbreaking and eclectic art movement of the 1960s that defied traditional boundaries by blending performance, painting, poetry, and experimental music into acts that blurred the line between art and everyday life. Spearheaded by figures like George Maciunas, Yoko Ono, and Joseph Beuys, Fluxus transformed art into a political gesture, challenging established norms and engaging audiences directly through thought-provoking and often provocative performances. Rooted in a spirit of constant change and rebellion against aesthetic conventions, Fluxus laid the foundation for Conceptual and performance art, emphasizing participation, critique, and the fluidity of artistic expression as a catalyst for social and spiritual healing.

Nan Goldin’s groundbreaking photography has captured raw and intimate scenes of American subcultures since the 1970s, with her seminal series "The Ballad of Sexual Dependency" portraying the gritty lives of her friends in Manhattan’s Bowery. Following in her footsteps, a diverse group of contemporary artists like Karlheinz Weinberger, Leigh Ledare, Zanele Muholi, Ryan McGinley, and Phillip-Lorca diCorcia explore themes of identity, community, and vulnerability through evocative snapshot photography and conceptual work. From Weinberger’s rebellious Swiss biker portraits to Muholi’s powerful visual activism for queer and trans rights in South Africa, and McGinley’s tender celebrations of youthful freedom, these artists continue to challenge and expand the boundaries of documentary expression with poignancy and boldness.

In a politically charged and polarized climate, For Freedoms—a groundbreaking artist-run super PAC founded by Hank Willis Thomas and Eric Gottesman—uses art to spark fresh critical discourse around the 2016 presidential election. Grounded in Norman Rockwell’s iconic “Four Freedoms” imagery, the project brings together over 48 artists and collectives to challenge and expand the meaning of freedom in today’s America. Through exhibitions, public talks, voter registration efforts, and billboard campaigns, For Freedoms embraces diverse and sometimes conflicting voices, underscoring art’s unique power to provoke dialogue beyond traditional political rhetoric. Rather than offering answers, it invites audiences to reconsider freedom’s complexities and engage with political discourse in innovative, inclusive ways that transcend partisan divides.

Nathan Myhrvold, a prodigious talent with a background spanning mathematics, physics, and technology, has transformed his passion for cooking into the groundbreaking six-volume *Modernist Cuisine*, an encyclopedic exploration of food through cutting-edge science and art. Originally sparked by a curiosity about sous vide cooking, Myhrvold’s work delves into the history, chemistry, and innovative techniques shaping modern gastronomy, captured through stunning, never-before-seen food photography. He envisions the future of food driven by technological innovation aimed not just at efficiency but genuinely enhancing flavor and variety. Emphasizing that cooking is both an art and a science, Myhrvold invites chefs to harness scientific insights to unleash greater creativity. His forthcoming *Modernist Bread* promises a similarly ambitious journey into the complexities of baking, blending tradition and avant-garde methods in a monumental new collection destined to inspire home bakers and professionals alike.

Discover the essence of American modernism with the Homage to the Square Rug, inspired by Josef Albers’s iconic series. A pioneering artist and educator, Albers brought Bauhaus principles to the U.S. and revolutionized color theory with his groundbreaking book, The Interaction of Color. This exclusive hand-tufted wool rug, adapted from his 1951 oil painting, is produced in a limited edition of just 150 pieces in collaboration with the Josef and Anni Albers Foundation, making it a rare and collectible tribute to one of the 20th century’s most influential art figures.

Political art has long been a powerful tool for expressing political opinion, but protest art takes it a step further by striving to create real social and political change. Successful activist art often breaks free from traditional gallery spaces to engage broader, diverse audiences and the communities it aims to serve, as seen in Thomas Hirschhorn’s Gramsci Monument in the Bronx and Tania Bruguera’s Immigrant Movement International in Queens. Street-level projects like Conflict Kitchen and the Guerrilla Girls use public spaces to challenge norms and raise awareness, while social media amplifies voices globally, exemplified by Pussy Riot’s viral protests against oppression. Importantly, impactful political art can be both large-scale and modest, focusing on local or even whimsical projects that foster community connection. Ultimately, while few artworks achieve iconic status, every thoughtful, well-placed piece has the potential to spark meaningful conversation and inspire activism in powerful ways.

Melania Trump’s speech at the Republican National Convention sparked controversy for its striking similarities to Michelle Obama’s 2008 Democratic Convention address, igniting debates about plagiarism and appropriation. In the spirit of this scandal, we explore five compelling works of appropriation art that reimagine familiar images and ideas. Gavin Turk’s "Transit Disaster" reworks Warhol’s iconic "Death and Disaster" car crashes with a British white van symbolizing a fading working class. Paul McDevitt’s "Notes to Self" fuses high art with graffiti through a playful journal-style homage to Piet Mondrian and De Stijl. Robert Gober’s piece merges gender and politics by subverting bridal imagery to confront homophobia. Libby Schoettle uses collage to bring to life an alter ego while reinterpreting a 1933 book cover steeped in Great Depression-era New York. Finally, Hank Willis Thomas resurrects crude illustrations from slave runaway posters, exposing the visual legacy of slavery in America and England. Together, these works challenge the boundaries of creativity, ownership, and meaning.

Amid a world shaken by political upheaval, social unrest, and technological upheavals, the 9th Berlin Biennale—curated by the millennial collective DIS—offers a provocative vision of the present and future through a kaleidoscope of art that blurs the lines between business, technology, and identity. With a tone that is both ironic and urgent, the exhibition embraces chaos and uncertainty as fuel for creativity, showcasing works that reimagine corporations as new power structures transcending national borders, while confronting dystopian realities alongside techno-utopian dreams. From brand-infused visuals and blockchain-inspired fantasies to grim meditations on surveillance and social fragmentation, the Biennale invites viewers to “embrace the chaos” and adapt boldly to a disorienting era where selling out is the new authenticity, and becoming one with technology—like the drone—is a radical act of survival.

Halsey McKay gallery in East Hampton, founded by longtime friends and artists Hilary Schaffner and Ryan Wallace, challenges the conventional wisdom that success in the art world demands a prime New York City location and established collector connections. Rooted in the Hamptons’ rich artistic history and supported by a strong network of emerging artists, the gallery has cultivated a vibrant program that draws collectors during the summer season with ambitious, fast-paced exhibitions. Balancing their identities as artist-run and curatorially driven, Schaffner and Wallace emphasize personal relationships, trust, and a commitment to showcasing innovative work in a formal gallery setting—bridging the gap between the rustic Hamptons environment and the broader contemporary art scene. Their approach leverages art fairs, organic word-of-mouth, and a unique community dynamic to thrive far from the city, proving that passion, perseverance, and local engagement can create a successful and evolving art hub outside traditional hotspots.

India’s rich heritage of craftsmanship and design shines through contemporary objects that blend tradition with innovation. From the iconic mobile pani puri carts serving beloved street snacks, to the intricate hand-painted bomma shadow puppets that tell epic stories, these creations reflect a vibrant culture. Footwear like the ornate mojaris and minimalist padukas showcase regional styles and spiritual ties, while sustainable furniture such as the bamboo Yasanche Outdoor Lounge merges environmental consciousness with artisan skill. Timeless techniques continue in bidri metalwork and delicate mehndi stencils, while modern designs like Rooshad Shroff’s marble light bulbs and the Spiro terracotta speaker dock rethink traditional materials for today’s world. Practical ingenuity also addresses social needs, exemplified by the WaterWheel, which eases water collection in rural areas. Together, these designs capture the essence of India’s past and present, celebrating its diversity and creativity.

In this compelling exploration of Delhi’s avant-garde art scene, curator Geeta Kapur highlights how contemporary artists navigate the city’s complex social and political landscape to redefine artistic production. Far from a conventional metropolis, Delhi is portrayed as a site of tension and transformation, where migrant populations and underprivileged communities coexist with elite anxieties, fueling radical artistic practices. The Raqs Media Collective fuses visual art, theory, and performance to probe capitalist histories and revolutionary thought, while Dayanita Singh challenges traditional photographic narratives through intimate, enigmatic images that blur representation and memory. Anita Dube confronts the unconscious and the politics of language with provocative installations and performances that invoke the surreal and the visceral, all contributing to a dynamic dialogue about art’s role in society and the potentials of a twenty-first-century avant-garde.

Andy Warhol’s love for cats and animals is beautifully captured in his work, from the playful limited-edition print book *25 Cats Name Sam and One Blue Pussy* in 1954 to the vibrant animal portraits of his Factory period in the mid-1970s. Celebrated as a pop art icon and devoted cat lover, Warhol immortalized his feline and canine muses—whether his own pets, those of friends, or private commissions—through distinctive, colorful portraits. Drawing from Phaidon's comprehensive Andy Warhol Catalogue Raisonné, this collection showcases ten standout pet portraits from his most prolific decade, revealing a tender and whimsical side of the artist often overshadowed by his celebrity culture works.

Hanging art perfectly on your walls doesn’t have to be a daunting task—by following a few simple, designer-approved rules, you can transform any space with confidence. Aim to choose artwork that measures between 65% and 85% of the width of the furniture beneath it to maintain balance, or consider multi-panel pieces like diptychs and triptychs for broader coverage. When tackling an empty wall, use the rule of three-eighths by multiplying the wall’s length by 0.57 to find the ideal art width. For placement, hang artwork so its center is about 58 inches from the floor, or slightly higher for taller ceilings, and keep it 8 to 10 inches above furniture to anchor the room cohesively. And if you’re feeling bold, opt for striking designer wallpapers to make a statement beyond traditional framed art. With these expert tips, your art will look thoughtfully curated and perfectly positioned every time.

Summer art season is here, and it’s time to embrace the vibrant energy of group shows as galleries loosen up and showcase fresh, experimental work. From David Zwirner’s playful staff-curated exhibitions to the sweaty, buzzy openings in the Lower East Side’s intimate galleries, there’s a thrilling mix of emerging talent and established artists ready to surprise and inspire. Expect boundary-pushing collaborations, politically charged exhibitions like “The Female Gaze, Part Two,” and immersive installations that challenge traditional formats. If you’re craving a beachside escape, the Hamptons' "Summer Fling" offers sun-soaked art by cutting-edge creators, while Queens and other boroughs provide unexpected gems that might just make you skip Manhattan altogether. Whether you’re rubbing elbows in a hot gallery or exploring from the comfort of home, this summer's art scene invites you to play, reflect, and discover something truly new.

In this insightful excerpt from Phaidon's Akademie X, avant-garde cinema pioneer Jonas Mekas shares 13 essential steps for aspiring experimental filmmakers to ignite their creative journeys. Mekas emphasizes the vast, branching nature of cinema—from narrative storytelling to poetic, non-narrative forms—and encourages filmmakers to explore diverse styles by learning from mentors, daily practice, and immersing themselves in both classic and contemporary works beyond commercial venues. He urges readers to honor the unique qualities of different film formats, embrace the full emotional range of camera movement and exposure, and resist dismissing analogue film in the digital age. Above all, Mekas celebrates cinema as a living, evolving art form fueled by passion, curiosity, and personal vision, inviting filmmakers to forge their own path guided by the muses of inspiration.

Simon Schubert, a 40-year-old artist based in Cologne, creates captivating works primarily using paper, folding it expertly or applying graphite to reveal haunting images through light and shadow. His current exhibition, "Jenseits von Ideen" in Berlin, showcases an intriguing mix of folded paper art, graphite drawings, installations, and video. Drawing inspiration from literature and film, Schubert’s process often involves exploring real and imagined spaces, such as those connected to Edgar Allan Poe, blending reality with fiction in his delicate artworks. He admires the philosophical depth of René Magritte’s illusions and counts artists like Vilhelm Hammershøi and Samuel Beckett among his influences. Always armed with his trusty eraser, Schubert navigates the "hazardous curves" of life to craft his mysterious, evocative pieces—works so powerful that they have even caused someone to faint.

Belgian floral artist Daniel Ost revolutionizes traditional flower arranging by capturing the fleeting beauty of nature through extraordinary, organic sculptures and installations. From a vegetal homage to Ravel’s Boléro featuring clay hills and leek flowers, to a Gothic window of autumn leaves symbolizing seasonal change, his works blend storytelling with natural elegance. Ost’s compositions, such as the twisting apple basket evoking biblical imagery and the intricate white arum structure born of meticulous craftsmanship, transform humble stems and petals into poetic art that bridges nature, history, and spirituality with breathtaking precision and innovation.

From the early 20th century to the late 1990s, fashion illustration has been a vibrant art form that not only captured the evolving silhouettes and styles of iconic designers but also shaped the cultural narrative of fashion itself. Pioneers like Georges Lepape and Benito melded art movements such as Cubism and Art Deco with haute couture, while surrealists like Salvador Dalí brought dreamlike elegance to the fashion world. Post-war illustrators like René Gruau infused glamour into Dior’s imagery, and innovators like Tony Viramontes and Joe Eula captured the bold energy of the 1980s with vivid colors and dynamic lines. Visionaries such as Michael Roberts and François Berthoud pushed boundaries with collage and woodcut techniques, enhancing fashion’s dramatic allure. Finally, artists like Jean-Philippe Delhomme and Mats Gustafson reimagined illustration as a conceptual and expressive medium, ensuring its enduring relevance despite the rise of photography. This rich legacy highlights how fashion illustration remains an indispensable bridge between art and style, forever inspiring both designer and admirer alike.

The Clark Institute of Art’s captivating exhibition, “Splendor, Myth, and Vision: Nudes From the Prado,” unveils a provocative collection of erotic masterpieces from Titian, Rubens, Tintoretto, and Velasquez, many displayed in the U.S. for the first time. Celebrating the once-hidden “Salas Reservadas” where Spanish kings kept their risqué art, the show explores the shifting boundaries of sexuality, taboo, and power through stunning works like Tintoretto’s daring portrait of courtesan Veronica Franco, Furini’s unsettling depiction of Lot and his daughters, and Guido Reni’s sensuous martyr Saint Sebastian. This remarkable collection not only challenges historical censorship but reveals the complex interplay of lust, morality, and artistry that continues to fascinate across centuries.

Salvador Dalí’s crystal sculpture *Dance of Time* captures the essence of his surreal exploration of time, echoing the iconic melting clocks from his famed painting *The Persistence of Memory*. Known as much for his flamboyant personality as his groundbreaking art, Dalí ventured beyond painting into various media, collaborating with the French glassmaker Daum to create this stunning piece. Reflecting his signature blend of technical skill and dreamlike imagery, *Dance of Time* and its elaborate counterpart *Montre Molle* continue to mesmerize, embodying the surrealist master’s whimsical take on the fluidity and relativity of time.

Discover a captivating selection of artworks that invite you to bring home a piece of creative magic, from affordable treasures to bold splurges. Highlights include Claes Oldenburg’s whimsical pie-themed print, Katherine Bradford’s evocative monotype of a night ship, and Man Ray’s iconic iron sculpture Cadeau, each blending charm and cultural significance. For those seeking grandeur, there’s Richard Serra’s powerful etching that mimics monumental sculpture, Michelangelo Pistoletto’s reflective mirrored silkscreen parrot merging art and life, and Etel Adnan’s poignant landscapes offering a contemplative glimpse of Beirut. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, these works promise to enrich your space with history, personality, and a touch of artistic destiny.

Richard Sapper, the celebrated Munich-born, Milan-based industrial designer who recently passed away, left an indelible mark on design with his blend of elegance, wit, and practicality. His extensive portfolio spans from cutting-edge technology like the iconic IBM ThinkPad 700C to everyday essentials such as espresso makers, tea kettles, and folding armchairs. Collaborating with renowned brands like Alessi, Kartell, and Knoll, Sapper’s creations have graced both ordinary homes and prestigious institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. From portable televisions and children’s chairs to sleek office seating and innovative kitchen tools, his designs reflect a timeless marriage of form and function celebrated worldwide.

During a tense entry at Antonio Maceo Airport, I embarked on a deeply immersive journey through Cuba’s rugged eastern provinces and vibrant Havana art scene, capturing the island’s unique blend of natural wonders and cultural resilience. Tasked with photographing the endemic plants of the Humboldt National Forest for my “Natural Abstractions” series, I navigated challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and local logistics, all while soaking in the profound biodiversity of the Caribbean’s largest rainforest. Amid historic shifts marked by Obama’s visit and the Rolling Stones’ Havana concert, I witnessed a Cuban society cautiously optimistic about change yet grounded in daily survival through resourcefulness and communal life. Exploring Havana’s dynamic art world—from the architectural-inspired installations at the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo Wifredo Lam to the pulsating energy of Fabrica de Arte—I encountered artists who channel social realities into nuanced expressions of identity and resilience, revealing a creative spirit thriving despite scarcity. This vivid encounter with Cuba’s past, present, and uncertain future left me reflecting on the delicate balance between preserving authentic culture and navigating impending transformations brought on by renewed American engagement.

Japanese erotic art, known as shunga or "images of spring," offers a captivating window into the nation's evolving culture and aesthetics, distinct from Western attitudes toward nudity and sexuality. Rooted in the rich tradition of ukiyo-e, or the "Floating World," these works reflect an urban society blossoming during the Edo period—a time when pleasure quarters, theater, and emerging middle-class values reshaped social norms. Unlike Western art, where nudity was often idealized or moralized, Japanese erotic depictions were intertwined deeply with context, portraying moments of secret passion, transgression, and everyday life with sophistication and nuance. From the refined elegance of eighteenth-century courtesans to the vibrant energy of ukiyo-e printmakers like Utamaro and Hokusai, shunga not only celebrated sensuality but also mirrored Japan’s political shifts and the fusion of art, commerce, and fashion. This unique artistic legacy reveals a culture that embraced the fleeting pleasures of life through sumptuous visuals, blending refined poetry, dynamic storytelling, and a flourishing print industry that brought the erotic and the aesthetic into striking harmony.

New Mexico’s vast high desert serves as the breathtaking canvas for two iconic works of environmental art that fuse nature, science, and human perception. Walter De Maria’s "The Lightning Field" features 400 stainless-steel poles arranged in a precise grid, creating a mesmerizing interplay with the natural forces of lightning and changing light across the expansive sky. Meanwhile, Charles Ross’s ongoing masterpiece "Star Axis" is a monumental naked-eye observatory carved into a mesa, designed to align with stellar movements and the earth’s rotation, inviting visitors to experience the cosmos through geometrical chambers and tunnels. Together, these extraordinary installations offer an immersive journey into the profound relationship between art, the environment, and the cosmos.

Chris Levine transcends traditional photography by working directly with light to create serene, meditative portraits of iconic figures like Queen Elizabeth II and the Dalai Lama. Drawing from his own mindfulness practice and a fascination with cutting-edge technology such as lasers, holograms, and 3D scanning, Levine captures moments of profound calm and dimensionality in his work. His recent portrait of the Dalai Lama, made using advanced lenticular imaging for the leader’s 80th birthday, exemplifies this blend of spirituality and innovation. Levine’s immersive approach invites viewers into a deeper, almost tactile experience of his subjects, while his upcoming projects, including a laser tribute to David Bowie at Glastonbury, promise to push the boundaries of light-based art even further.

The New York art world’s dining scene is undergoing a vibrant transformation, with nearly a dozen fresh eateries popping up in Chelsea and nearby neighborhoods over the past seven months, injecting new energy into a once predictable culinary circuit. From Günter Seeger’s Michelin-starred French-German “experience” in the Meatpacking District to innovative spots like David Chang’s Italian-Korean fusion at Nishi and the playful ice cream creations at Ample Hills Creamery on The High Line, these venues offer more than just food—they create cultural moments intertwined with the local art scene. Each restaurant is paired with nearby galleries and museums showcasing exciting exhibitions, from Stuart Davis at the Whitney to cutting-edge shows at David Zwirner and Paul Kasmin. Whether you’re savoring the perfected pastas of Impero Caffé or the bespoke pizzas at PN Wood Fired Pizza, Chelsea’s new culinary landscape invites art lovers and foodies alike to indulge their senses in a stylish, flavorful celebration of contemporary culture.

Amid the historic Brexit vote fueled by fears of immigration, British-Ghanaian filmmaker John Akomfrah presents his first major U.S. exhibition at Lisson Gallery, exploring enduring themes of migration, displacement, and national identity. Through his two new films, *Auto da Fé* and *The Airport*, Akomfrah meditates on forced migrations over centuries and Greece’s recent economic crisis, using evocative imagery and sound to unpack complex political and social histories. As an artist deeply engaged with avant-garde and activist cinema, he reflects on the rise of far-right movements, the illusion of political sovereignty, and the ongoing consequences of Western interventions abroad. For Akomfrah, art’s power lies not in predicting political change but in its ability to resonate, challenge narratives, and offer hope by connecting past struggles with present realities. With a call to young artists to embrace mistakes as unique signatures, his work embodies a hopeful, utopian impulse amid turbulent times.

Personalizing your home with art begins by defining the aesthetic you want to express, and the living room is the perfect canvas for this transformation. Whether you lean towards the serene simplicity of Minimalism, craving a zen-like space with measured precision, or the bold vitality of Maximalism, bursting with color and dramatic flair, there’s a collection tailored for you. For trendsetters and art insiders who appreciate cutting-edge, trailblazing works and savvy picks, there’s a curated selection that captures the avant-garde spirit. Meanwhile, Traditionalists can find timeless classics that anchor any room with elegance and depth, blending old and new for a sophisticated, enduring appeal. No matter your style, mixing these inspirations can make your home an unforgettable showcase of personality and taste.

Petra Cortright, a pioneering figure in Post-Internet art, is celebrated for her innovative use of digital culture's raw materials like GIFs, webpages, and videos, often shared through popular platforms such as YouTube. Rising to fame with her 2007 video *vvebcam*, where she playfully manipulated webcam effects, Cortright's work is seen as a hallmark of digital-era feminism and a foreshadowing of selfie culture. Now based in Los Angeles, she has begun translating her digital creations into physical form through digitally printed paintings collaged from internet ephemera gathered during extensive web binges. Her latest limited edition 360 Spirit Car, created in collaboration with Rotterdam’s All Together Now gallery, transforms familiar personalized memorabilia phrases by infusing them with hashtags, offering a subtle reflection on the increasingly blurred lines between our online and offline lives.

Marcel Breuer, the Hungarian-born Modernist architect and designer, began his journey as a passionate young artist navigating the evolving landscape of art and industry in post-World War I Europe. Born in the culturally rich city of Pécs, Breuer’s formative years were steeped in artistic exploration, from painting roofs and hillsides to embracing mechanical drawing. After a brief, unsatisfying stint at Vienna’s Academy of Fine Arts, his fortunes changed when he discovered the Bauhaus in Weimar, drawn by Walter Gropius’s visionary ideal of merging art, craft, and industry. At the Bauhaus, amid a dynamic and sometimes chaotic atmosphere, Breuer flourished under the guidance of influential masters like Johannes Itten, Paul Klee, and later László Moholy-Nagy, mastering foundational design principles and the unity of artist and craftsman. His close friendship with Gropius and his skillful navigation of the school’s evolving philosophy positioned him as a pivotal figure in the Bauhaus’s transformation, foreshadowing his lasting impact on 20th-century architecture and design.

Marcel Breuer, celebrated as the last of the first generation of Modernist architects, crafted an impressive legacy through his distinctive buildings, interiors, and furniture that reflect his Bauhaus roots and evolved vision in America. While his public projects like the Met Breuer and iconic furniture designs are widely recognized, Breuer’s private homes reveal an equally bold and meticulous approach to modern architecture. From the historic Gropius House in Massachusetts to striking residences across the U.S. and Europe, these carefully curated examples highlight Breuer’s innovative spirit and enduring influence on the concept of the modern home.

Art collectors Carole Server and Oliver Frankel share their keen eye for unique contemporary pieces they’ve discovered while browsing the Basel fairs. From Peter Krauskopf’s layered paintings to Michael John Kelly’s impactful Berlin residency works, their selections highlight a vibrant mix of emerging and mid-career artists. They spotlight striking paintings by Alfred Boman and Torey Thornton, intimate pieces by Jannis Varelas, and captivating works from Dana Schutz, Avery Singer, and Njideka Akunyili Crosby. The duo also praises lesser-known talents like Georgia Gardner Gray and Hiroki Tsukuda, revealing a diverse and dynamic array of fresh voices and bold artistic expressions gracing galleries worldwide.

Collectors Susan and Michael Hort share their top discoveries from the 2016 Basel art fairs, highlighting standout emerging artists across Volta, LISTE, and Art Basel. From Naomi Safran-Hon's evocative cement and photographic works at Volta, to Florian Heinke’s politically charged black acrylic paintings, and Michael John Kelly’s layered photo-collage paintings, the Horts reveal a keen eye for innovation. At LISTE, Brendan Fowler’s eerie fabric assemblages, Anke Weyer’s vibrant abstract paintings, and Jean Marie Appriou’s surreal sculptures showcase fresh creativity, while Nathan Zeidman’s colorful, salon-style installation captivated with its playful everyday imagery. Meanwhile, Art Basel featured striking pieces like Secundino Hernandez’s meticulously planned spontaneous-looking painting, Brian Belott’s inventive calculator sculpture installation, Jon Pestoni’s evolving yet unmistakably personal abstractions, and Armin Boehm’s dynamic California-inspired work—each embodying the vibrant energy and bold experimentation defining this year’s fairs.

Art Basel’s Unlimited section dazzles with its monumental showcase of contemporary art, blending immersive technology, enigmatic installations, and expansive multiscreen videos that captivate and challenge viewers. From Steven Pippin’s ingenious gyroscopic pencil balancing act and Samson Young’s haunting sonic bird calls to Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s unsettling facial recognition room, the fair pushes the boundaries of spectacular experience. Mysterious environments, like Hans Op de Beeck’s grey-toned living room tableau and Pamela Rosenkranz’s endless neon blue water stream, spark curiosity and philosophical reflection. Powerful multiscreen narratives by William Kentridge and Kahlil Joseph draw audiences into historical and social consciousness, while intimate, detailed works by Mike Kelley and Martha Rosler invite deep contemplation. Giant, engulfing paintings complete the panorama, making Unlimited an electrifying arena where art’s grandeur and subtlety collide spectacularly.

Flaka Haliti is a fearless artist whose provocative work challenges cultural and political barriers, drawing deeply from her experiences growing up in post-war Kosovo. Her practice navigates themes of nationalism, migration, and identity through bold, often subversive gestures—like smuggling bull testes into galleries or embodying her shape-shifting alter ego Joe, who critiques the demands of the art market. Now based in Munich and pursuing a PhD in Practice, Haliti’s art transcends local narratives to address universal tensions around borders and belonging. Alongside her gallery LambdaLambdaLambda, she’s helping forge new pathways for Kosovar artists on the international stage, while continuing to explore the complexities of post-independence politics, representation, and cultural resilience with sharp intelligence and unflinching honesty.

This year's Art Basel offers a compelling showcase of contemporary art’s evolving landscape, featuring standout works that blend tradition with provocative new narratives. Highlights include Robert Longo’s luminous charcoal drawings inspired by iceberg cliffs, Cady Noland’s fierce critique of American society presciently capturing the rise of “Trump Nation,” and David Hockney’s vibrant iPad paintings bridging classical technique with digital innovation. Cindy Sherman presents tender portraits celebrating aging with grace, while Luzia Hürzeler’s poetic tribute to her late cat blurs the lines between life, art, and memory. Kathryn Andrews confronts corporate misogyny with staged images of American Apparel models, and Pierre Klossowski’s surreal sculpture revisits ancient myth through a darkly sensual lens. Paweł Althamer’s theatrical self-portrait evokes prehistoric textures, Allison Katz delights with exuberant animal imagery infused with personal symbolism, and Wade Guyton challenges art market norms with cheeky inkjet prints of his studio floor. The innovative film by Sarah Cwynar disrupts visual overload with piercing commentary on contemporary culture, marking Art Basel as a dynamic arena of artistic reflection and rebellion.

American artist Jill Magid pushes the boundaries of institutional critique with her daring project involving the archives and remains of famed Mexican architect Luis Barragán. After discovering that Barragán's professional archive was withheld by his widow, Magid embarked on a three-year quest, ultimately receiving permission to exhume and partially remove the architect’s ashes. She replaced the ashes with a silver horse sculpture, then transformed part of the remains into a diamond set into an engagement ring, which she formally offered to Barragán’s widow in exchange for opening the archive to the public. This provocative work, titled The Exhumation, is part of Magid’s ongoing series “The Barragán Archives,” combining art, negotiation, and activism in a poetic gesture that challenges legacy and ownership while inviting dialogue about cultural heritage.

At Art Basel, the fast-paced world of dealers, collectors, and curators has embraced a playful new language—emojis—to quickly share everything from the thrill of landing a Danh Vo sale to the chaos of a Jordan Wolfson sculpture malfunctioning. Whether navigating VIP parties, debating whether to snag a Hirst pill or dot, or simply trying to find the Tolga bash, these tiny icons speak volumes about the excitement, drama, and savvy behind the scenes of the major art fair. From spotting A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio to celebrating iconic works by Ruscha and Jasper Johns, Art Basel’s emoji lexicon captures the vibrant energy of the fair with a wink and a nod—and a fair dose of insider humor.

At this year’s LISTE art fair, a vibrant and daring array of works defies the conservative trends seen in much of the mainstream art world. From Dina Danish’s playful video exploring the notion of fitting all possessions onto a piece of toast, to Lola Gonzàlez’s unsettling yet evocative video capturing the prelude to tragic events, the fair pulses with a mix of humor, poignancy, and provocation. Hiwa K’s nostalgic homage to a Kurdish family’s creative color-TV solution, Erkka Nissinen’s existentially hilarious animation probing the search for community, and Charbel-Joseph H. Boutros’s romantic grocery receipts demonstrate a broad spectrum of inventive approaches. Meanwhile, Shana Moulton’s surreal autobiographical videos, Flaka Haliti’s elusive collaborator Joe, Michel Winterberg’s menacing “Mutant Tamagotchi,” and Mahmoud Khaled’s politicized digital dialogues bring distinct voices that challenge and entertain. Anchoring this lively gathering, Mark van Yetter’s biting painting “The Retired Idealist” contemplates aging and the medium of painting itself, offering a wry counterpoint amid the dynamic new media works on display. Together, these highlights underscore LISTE’s commitment to showcasing fresh, boundary-pushing art that captures the complexities of contemporary life with wit, urgency, and depth.

Michele Robecchi, former managing editor of Flash Art and an astute independent curator, shares his insights on standout artists featured at LISTE 2016 in Basel. Highlighting Michael Auder’s innovative blend of French Nouvelle Vague and 1960s New York experimental film, the compelling work of Jesse Darling who boldly challenges societal norms, and Rubén Grilo’s geometric and tactile approach reminiscent of Piet Mondrian with an Arte Povera twist, Robecchi offers a vivid panorama of contemporary art. He praises Vlad Nanca’s spatially engaging pieces, Tobias Spichtig’s sculptural dialogue with Giacometti’s abstraction of the human form, and Jonas Staal’s politically charged visual exploration of the unrecognized state of Azawad. Intrigued by Anke Weyer’s promising paintings showcased by Office Baroque, Robecchi’s picks reflect LISTE’s dynamic interplay between bold concepts and remarkable craftsmanship.

As the art world prepares for another Art Basel, voices from across the spectrum—from curators and collectors to artists and critics—reflect on the complexities and contradictions of today’s art market. Opinions range from calls for greater transparency, fair contracts, and better support for artists, to visions of a market that honors community, artistic context, and long-term value over quick investment gains. Contributors advocate for reforms such as limiting immediate resale of works, promoting free art projects, protecting scholarly freedom, and redefining how digital and new media art is handled. Many express nostalgia for an era where art was discussed for its cultural significance rather than price, while others urge optimism and a more inclusive, democratic approach. Amid concerns around market opacity, artist exploitation, and the pressures on galleries to grow unchecked, there’s a shared hope for an art market that truly reflects and nurtures the creative ecosystem and its communities.

Paul McCarthy’s work defies easy categorization, boldly blending the perverse, iconoclastic, and brilliant into vividly provocative art that challenges norms and evokes strong reactions. In Phaidon's expanded monograph, nine key pieces from the 1990s to today showcase this Los Angeles-based renegade’s fearless approach to taboo-bashing and artistic innovation. From the unsettling surrealism of "The Garden" to the riotous energy of "Pig Island," each work pulses with a raw, unfiltered intensity that both captivates and confronts. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or new to McCarthy’s charged visual language, these pieces promise an unforgettable encounter with one of contemporary art’s most influential and controversial figures.

Diving into the art world for the first time can be daunting, but experts offer savvy strategies to help new collectors find meaningful and affordable entry points. Instead of chasing big-name autographs, they recommend seeking out great examples by emerging or overlooked artists, exploring influential art movements like Atelier 17’s printmakers, or discovering pioneering women artists gaining overdue recognition. Consider less famous but still characteristic works by masters like Dürer or approachable pieces by contemporary figures such as Ed Ruscha. Museums, timely political art, and regional scenes like the West Coast’s evolving landscape also offer rich avenues for discovery. With thoughtful research and patience, even collectors on modest budgets can build exciting collections of impactful art that resonates both culturally and historically.

As Art Basel’s 47th edition draws near, we celebrate ten visionary designers whose work blurs the line between fashion and fine art. From Sonia Delaunay’s vibrant, geometric coats inspired by Orphism to Man Ray’s surrealist photography that transformed fashion imagery, these creators have continuously drawn on art history to redefine style. The timeless elegance of Augusta Bernard’s bias-cut gowns echoes classical sculpture, while Elsa Schiaparelli’s witty Surrealist "Desk Suit" channels Salvador Dalí’s dreamlike visions into wearable masterpieces. Innovators like Anne-Marie Beretta disrupt convention with bold tailoring, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac playfully infuses Pop Art into clothing, and Jean-Louis Scherrer marries classicism with opulence. Meanwhile, avant-garde artists Koji Tatsuno and Deborah Milner push fashion into sculptural territory, and Haider Ackermann’s lush, androgynous silhouettes transport us on a Silk-Road fantasy. Together, these designers illustrate fashion as a dynamic canvas where art and apparel coalesce into enduring cultural expression.

Vincent van Gogh, a Post-Impressionist painter whose vivid use of color and fluid, sketch-like style transformed everyday scenes into extraordinary works, continues to inspire artists today despite his tragic and premature death. This article highlights six pairs of paintings that juxtapose Van Gogh’s iconic masterpieces—such as his self-portraits, sunflowers, still lifes, and bedroom scenes—with contemporary artworks by modern creators, showcasing the enduring legacy and profound influence of this tortured genius on the art world.

From provocative woodcuts by Nicole Eisenman that challenge art historical norms to immersive light-and-sound installations by Haroon Mirza, this curated collection highlights irresistible art steals and splurges alike. Dive into Ryan McGinley’s joyous, intimate photographs that capture the essence of youthful freedom, or explore Cheri Samba’s satirical and vividly inventive paintings that incisively comment on African politics. Discover the intellectually playful lithographs of R.H. Quaytman and the mystically charged mixed-media drawings of David Lynch, whose works are treasured by cult fans. Whether you’re hunting for an accessible masterpiece or a captivating investment, these artists deliver compelling narratives and visionary creations that make owning art an urgent, joyous necessity.

New York native and Bard College fine arts graduate Gordon Stevenson, known as Baron Von Fancy, captivates with his bold and playful text-based art that channels the nostalgic charm of vintage New York billboards and signage. Embracing collaboration, he partners with major brands like Uber, Vans, Patagonia, and Louis Vuitton to showcase his eye-catching designs, while also engaging in unconventional self-promotion—like secretly slipping small artworks into food deliveries by bike. Von Fancy’s work is a vibrant fusion of cheeky wordplay, nostalgia, and a fresh, subversive spirit that redefines how contemporary artists connect with audiences.

Natalie Bell, assistant curator at the New Museum, shares her insightful picks from LISTE 2016 in Basel, spotlighting a fascinating array of contemporary artworks. From Joanna Piotrowska’s psychologically charged photographs capturing the tumult of adolescence to Jesse Darling’s evocative sculptures exploring the challenges of representing the body, the featured artists challenge perceptions and evoke deep emotional responses. Valerie Snobeck’s glass pieces blur the line between industrial design and organic form, while Slavs and Tatars infuse medieval motifs with provocative wordplay. Georgia Gardner Gray’s vibrant palette conjures a modern resurrection scene, and Anna Hulačová’s sculptures cleverly blend primitivist and modernist influences, offering both mystery and whimsy. This selection promises a captivating journey through innovative, thought-provoking works by rising international artists.

David Gryn, director and co-founder of the digital art platform Daata Editions and film curator at Art Basel Miami Beach, shares his compelling picks for LISTE 2016, highlighting artists who push boundaries through moving images, innovative techniques, and fresh perspectives. His selections include Michel Auder’s seamless blend of art and filmmaking, Jesse Darling’s witty and balanced works, and Inga Meldere’s surprising take on the sublime. Gryn also praises Shana Moulton’s captivating moving images, Erkka Nissinen’s engaging Finnish creations, and Ximena Garrido-Lecca’s earthy ceramic installations. Other standout artists include Dawn Kasper’s music-infused sculptures, Yuri Pattison’s groundbreaking exploration of data in art, and Gerda Scheepers’ disquieting yet cohesive collages. These curated highlights showcase a dynamic mix of humor, intelligence, and aesthetic innovation set to energize the art world at LISTE in Basel.

Brussels-based collector Alain Servais, known for his dynamic approach to emerging and undervalued art, shares his standout picks from this year’s LISTE art fair, highlighting a diverse range of innovative artists. From Kris Lemsalu’s evocative fusion of human and animal forms exploring primal and feminine themes, to Shana Moulton’s witty installations critiquing image-obsessed culture, each work challenges viewers to rethink contemporary experience. Servais also celebrates Yuri Pattison’s incisive examination of digital trends and control, Catherine Biocca’s unsettling reinterpretations of classical sculpture, and Ximena Garrido-Lecca’s exploration of cultural tensions through everyday materials. The collective Slavs and Tatars round out his selection with politically charged projects that reveal the persistent power of regional history and folklore amidst globalization. Together, these artists represent a thrilling snapshot of creativity on the edge.

Berlin stands as a vibrant epicenter of contemporary art, where a dynamic mix of established galleries and daring newcomers shape the global aesthetic landscape. From Daniel Marzona’s artist-focused stewardship to the architectural flair of Galerie Rolando Anselmi, the city pulses with inventive spaces blending diverse international talents. Highlights include Johan König’s boundary-pushing use of a Brutalist church for exhibitions and yoga, the youth-driven late-night energy at Gillmeier Rech, and Silberkuppe’s hybrid gallery-projektraum ethos fostering cutting-edge, collaborative art experiences. As Berlin’s neighborhoods evolve alongside events like the Berlin Biennale, these galleries remain the lifeblood of a scene that thrives on innovation, community, and a fearless embrace of the unconventional.

Hieronymus Bosch, the 16th-century Netherlandish master, is renowned for his hauntingly imaginative and nightmarish depictions of sin and hell, influencing greats like Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso. Known for his small but unforgettable body of work, Bosch painted vivid scenes filled with grotesque punishments and bizarre creatures, illustrating divine retribution with dark humor and surreal detail. From brain surgery without anesthesia to being boiled alive or tormented by monstrous demons, his art offers a macabre countdown of the most horrific ways to die, all colored by his skepticism of authority and deep religious engagement. This summer, the Prado Museum honors the 500th anniversary of his death with a retrospective showcasing these bizarre and cautionary images that continue to captivate and horrify centuries later.

Paul McCarthy, a provocative force in the Los Angeles art scene since the late 1960s, captivates with his visceral performances and installations that blur boundaries between reality and representation. In a revealing interview from Phaidon’s new monograph, McCarthy discusses his experimental use of video and performance—often involving repetition, intuitive actions, and raw materials like motor oil and ketchup—as metaphors for latent violence, trauma, and the body’s interior. His work unfolds within architectural spaces—rooms, doors, tables—invoking a theater of the primal and the cultural, where objects transform and meanings fluctuate, suspending belief and challenging viewers to engage with what is felt but never fully expressed. Through hypnotic, often unsettling actions, McCarthy invites a complex interplay of humor, horror, and empathy, decoding the hidden orders that govern both his art and the human condition.

Humanity’s deep-rooted impulse to create art stretches back tens of thousands of years, leaving us awe-inspiring glimpses into ancient lives through prehistoric cave paintings, sculptures, and rock engravings around the world. From the enigmatic Lion Man of Germany—an extraordinary mammoth tusk sculpture blending human and animal forms—to the vibrant polychrome animals of France’s Lascaux caves, these works reveal early humans’ profound connection to nature and mythology. Across continents, such as Australia’s finely detailed Bradshaw figures, Argentina’s evocative hand stencils, and Africa’s striking giraffe engravings and ethereal human forms, ancient artists captured the rhythms of their shifting environments and communities. These masterpieces—crafted with remarkable skill, imagination, and symbolic depth—offer a breathtaking journey into our shared artistic heritage, illuminating how our ancestors interpreted and celebrated the world around them.

Transforming a tiny apartment into a stunning mini art gallery is easier than you think with a few clever tricks. Turn your coffee table into a dynamic sculpture display, giving that often-overlooked surface new life. Elevate your bookshelves by pairing literary treasures with eye-catching artworks that invite a fresh perspective. Use your TV screen creatively as a frame for vibrant new media art, blending technology and culture seamlessly. And don’t shy away from the classic move of placing bold, captivating pieces behind your couch—because sometimes the classics work best when reimagined with diverse media. These ideas ensure even the smallest spaces can become a personalized kunsthalle filled with inspiration and style.

Mary Heilmann’s vibrant and playful journey from California ceramicist to influential New York abstract painter has culminated in well-deserved recognition, with the Museum of Modern Art recently acquiring several of her works just as she celebrates her 75th birthday. Known for her loose, organic geometric paintings infused with pop and punk energy, Heilmann defied the rigid, male-dominated art scene of the 1970s by boldly switching from sculpture to painting. Her career, marked by decades of international exhibitions and increasing acclaim, includes landmark moments such as multiple Whitney Biennials and a transformative 2007 dual cover feature in Art Forum and Art in America. Now honored with her first UK retrospective at Whitechapel Gallery, Heilmann’s rich and colorful oeuvre spans ceramics, furniture, and painting, offering a dazzling fusion of autobiography, formal innovation, and craft that continues to inspire new generations of artists.

In the 1980s, Christie’s tried—and failed—to entice Donald Trump into the world of fine art, a pursuit that didn’t quite resonate with the future president. Despite owning a fake Renoir and spurning a series of Andy Warhol’s Trump Tower silkscreens for clashing with his décor, Trump’s art story is less about appreciation and more about business. His track record includes controversial demolitions of historic art elements, like the Art Deco bas-reliefs at Bonwit Teller, revealing a complex relationship with culture and preservation. While art dealers note politicians often avoid publicly embracing fine art, Trump’s engagement with art seems to reflect his deal-making ethos, quoting Warhol’s notion that “good business is the best art.” This glimpse into the intersection of art and politics suggests the Oval Office’s future adornments may mirror the candidate’s pragmatic, if unconventional, approach to aesthetics.

The article explores the artistic sensibilities and support for the arts among prominent Democratic figures, focusing on Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders. Clinton's taste leans toward Modern art, reflected in the White House exhibitions she initiated and her embrace of contemporary sculptors like Carole Feuerman. She also made a historic choice in selecting Simmie Knox, the first Black artist to paint a presidential portrait. Bernie Sanders, while less publicly known as a collector, has been a fierce advocate for arts funding, championing the role of art as essential to life and speech. His strong legislative record and the enthusiastic support of artists, including iconic figures like Shepard Fairey, underscore his commitment to the arts as a vital part of cultural and political life.

The final performance of the Ringling Brothers’ elephants in 2016 marked a cultural shift against using animals for entertainment, yet the art world’s embrace of live animals in artworks continues to rise, sparking debate about ethics and consent. From Maurizio Cattelan’s live donkey under a chandelier to performances featuring pigeons with LED lights and roaches eating gingerbread houses, artists employ animals both as living materials and performers, often citing philosophical ideas that grant animals a form of consciousness. However, this growing trend sits uneasily alongside broader societal moves to recognize animal rights, raising questions about the morality of using sentient beings as tools for spectacle—especially when their willing participation remains unknowable. In an era increasingly sensitive to animal welfare, the art world’s reliance on live creatures challenges us to reconsider the boundaries between appreciation and exploitation.

Sou Fujimoto’s architectural journey merges his deep reverence for nature with innovative urban design, resulting in visionary projects that blur the boundaries between built environments and natural forms. From the conceptual slab layers of the Primitive Future House to the tree-topped steel boxes of House Before House, and the intricate timber interplay of Final Wooden House, Fujimoto reimagines spaces as dynamic, living entities. His bold proposals, like the airy Taiwan Tower and the ethereal Serpentine Gallery Pavilion, showcase a seamless blend of art, function, and community spirit. Whether crafting intimate retreats, futuristic urban landmarks, or organic commercial facades like Omotesando Branches, Fujimoto consistently challenges conventional architecture, creating spaces that invite discovery, reflection, and a renewed connection to the environment.

Tokyo, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge creativity, offers an exceptional culinary landscape that blends tradition with innovation. From the serene, invite-only lunches at Yakumo Saryo, nestled in Meguro with its artful kaiseki menu and tranquil tea room, to the revitalized Shinagawa street featuring Okomeya’s handcrafted onigiri and hip cafés, Tokyo's dining experiences are as diverse as they are refined. At Sasha Kanetanaka, guests enjoy tranquil kaiseki dishes surrounded by a stunning rock and moss garden, while Spring Valley Brewery in Daikanyama delivers craft beers and lively terrace views in an industrial-chic setting. High above Roppongi Hills, The Moon presents a minimalist French-inspired dining experience paired with breathtaking city vistas, completing a dynamic snapshot of Tokyo’s vibrant and sophisticated food scene.

Japanese erotic art, deeply rooted in the tradition of ukiyo-e or the Floating World, offers a vibrant celebration of fleeting earthly pleasures that contrasts sharply with Western attitudes towards the nude and sexuality. From the Heian aristocracy to the bustling urban middle class, these evocative paintings and prints have evolved over centuries but maintain a shared reverence for sensuality. Guided by Phaidon's compendium *Poem of the Pillow and Other Stories*, we explore ten captivating works that capture the rich, intimate scenes of traditional pleasure quarters, showcasing masters like Hishikawa Moronobu, Kitagawa Utamaro, and Katsushika Hokusai in a timeless dance of beauty, desire, and artistic expression.

Nestled in the 16th-century Palazzo Rospigliosi just outside Rome, Granpalazzo offers a refreshingly intimate and art-centric alternative to traditional bustling fairs. Founded by Roman dealers Paola Capata and Federica Schiavo, this carefully curated event prioritizes genuine connections over sales frenzy, inviting a close-knit circle of galleries and artists to present site-specific works in a serene, countryside setting. Far from the commercial grind of global art fairs, Granpalazzo fosters meaningful networking among collectors, curators, and dealers, with thoughtful hospitality that feels more like a cultural retreat than a trade show. Emphasizing quality over quantity, it celebrates the slow-building appreciation of art, particularly spotlighting the richness and complexity of Italy’s contemporary scene, which thrives on experimentation and thoughtful maturation rather than flashy trends. This unique fair embodies a distinctly Italian blend of relaxed elegance and passionate artistry, offering a sanctuary for both artists and collectors to engage deeply and authentically.

Dr. Cecilia Canziani, former founding director of Rome’s innovative Nomas Foundation and current educator at the Accademia di Belle Arti in L’Aquila, offers her insightful reflections on select works from Granpalazzo 2016, an exhibition held at Palazzo Rospigliosi. Highlighting artworks that blur boundaries and provoke perception, Canziani explores Falke Pisano’s evocative interplay of text and image as a personal yet universal narrative, Andrea Kvas’ intriguing tension between painting and sculpture and his embrace of impermanence, and Armand Andrade Tudela’s sculptural works that question materiality and perception through fragmented, seductive forms. She also praises Anna Barham’s captivating video installations, which transform language and bodily responses into sleek, rhythmic expressions of communication and proximity, inviting viewers into a mesmerizing experience.

Brussels-based collector Frédéric de Goldschmidt shares his eclectic picks for Granpalazzo 2016, showcasing his passion for conceptual art and unusual materials. From Alain Biltereyst’s masterful blend of slick advertising patterns and modest craftsmanship to Pedro Cabrita Reis’s transformation of construction site elements into striking installations, de Goldschmidt highlights works that challenge conventional beauty. He also celebrates Hamish Fulton’s innovative Land Art that invites participation without trace, Maryam Jafri’s witty exploration of marketing mishaps within consumer culture, and the intriguing mirrored abstractions of Armando Andrade Tudela. Each piece promises a compelling dialogue between form, concept, and viewer experience.

Mauro De Iorio, who balances running a global medical supply company with his passion for fine art, shares his insights on standout works featured at the latest Granpalazzo exhibition near Rome. From Daniele Milvio’s hauntingly symbolic figures to Piotr Lakomy’s innovative use of industrial materials, and Brian Kokoska’s optimistic Cubist-inspired paintings, Mauro highlights a rich diversity of contemporary creativity. He also admires Armando Andrade Tudela’s enigmatic gypsum sculpture that blurs past and future, Anna Barham’s evocative, science-infused photography, Catherine Parsonage’s delicately erotic landscapes, and Andrea Kvas’s vibrant fusion of painting and sculpture with mesmerising textures. This curated selection reveals Mauro’s keen eye for works that intrigue, inspire, and push artistic boundaries.

The partnership between Italian coffee giant Lavazza and the Guggenheim Museum is a striking example of how art institutions and corporations collaborate in today’s changing cultural landscape. Beginning with a serendipitous meeting during the 2013 Venice Biennale, Lavazza’s deepening relationship with the Guggenheim has helped revitalize the museum’s sponsorship model amid declining traditional funding. Lavazza’s support—rooted in shared values and a desire to elevate their brand in the U.S.—has enabled the Guggenheim to showcase pioneering artists like Hungarian modernist Lázló Moholy-Nagy, whose innovative fusion of art and technology resonates strongly today. Beyond the prestige and client hospitality offered by the museum, this alliance reflects how museums now leverage creative partnerships to sustain their missions while connecting with new audiences through cutting-edge exhibitions that highlight transformative artists and their timeless impact.

On this leg of our American Land Art road trip through Utah’s stark deserts and salt flats, we explore two iconic works that blend nature, astronomy, and geology into immersive experiences. Nancy Holt’s Sun Tunnels in the Great Basin Desert invite visitors on a remote pilgrimage to four massive concrete cylinders aligned with the solstices, framing the rising and setting sun while casting star patterns inside, connecting earthbound viewers to cosmic rhythms. Nearby at the Great Salt Lake, Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty coils 457 meters into the water, its monumental earthwork shimmering with salt crystals and echoing natural cycles and cosmic spirals. Both works transcend traditional sculpture, urging visitors to reflect on time, space, and our place in the universe amid the vast openness of Utah’s landscape.

Guy Richards Smit, a Brooklyn-based artist known for his versatility across mediums from watercolor to video, embraces a playful yet profound approach to art rooted in personal history and curiosity. His current work includes the “Mountain of Skulls” series, inspired by a chilling church made of plague victim bones in Bohemia, reflecting on identity and empathy. Alongside this, he’s completing a five-episode multicamera sitcom, The Grossmalerman! Show, merging humor with creativity. Influenced by eclectic figures like Kara Walker, Sparks, and Rembrandt, Smit draws inspiration from music and art that challenge and excite him, all while maintaining a studio environment anchored by his cherished antique drafting table. His process is as thoughtful as it is irreverent, balancing deep reflection with a sense of fun and rebellion that keeps his work bold and engaging.

French Impressionism and the Italian Renaissance have long influenced contemporary art, and the enduring legacy of 17th century Dutch master Johannes Vermeer is no exception. Celebrated for his intimate portrayals of everyday domestic life and female subjects, Vermeer’s work continues to resonate with artists today. Drawing from Phaidon's updated monograph and Artspace archives, a striking collection pairs Vermeer’s iconic paintings with contemporary interpretations, highlighting themes such as maidservants, models, and women adorned with jewelry. This dialogue between past and present not only honors Vermeer’s exquisite craftsmanship but also underscores the timeless fascination with the quiet moments of daily life and the feminine experience.

The annual Seven on Seven conference brings together seven visionary artists and technologists to create fresh, boundary-pushing projects that explore the intersection of emotion, technology, and human connection. This year’s event, hosted by Rhizome and the New Museum, showcased a range of innovative collaborations—from a fantastical retelling of Internet infrastructure and a brain-wiping wearable to foster authentic encounters, to a satirical mathematical model for infinite detention under Trump’s policies. Other highlights included a theatrical AI workplace play probing gender and power dynamics, an emotional mirror that magnifies human expressions, and a reimagining of virtual reality’s embodied possibilities beyond headsets. Perhaps most moving was a poignant social media-inspired prose poem that cast everyday digital oversharing as a tender act of human connection. Throughout, the conference underscored a shared yearning to reclaim meaningful emotional experiences amid a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Guy Richards Smit’s “Mountain of Skulls” series is a brilliant blend of acid wit and dark humor, transforming traditional memento mori into a sharp, comical critique of human folly and art world pretensions. Inspired by a visit to a Slovakian ossuary, Smit’s ironic skull portraits—ranging from watercolors to paintings—poke fun at our fleeting personality traits and societal vanities with mordant charm. Known for deflating pomposity through his art and his alter-ego Jonathan Grossmalerman, a satirical video persona who lampoons figures like David Salle, Smit invites viewers to embrace the bittersweet truth of life and art with a sly smile and a stiletto-sharp edge.

Chelsea’s Albertz Benda gallery emerged in 2015 from a desire to challenge the art world’s snobbery toward design, splitting from the design-focused Friedman Benda to create a dedicated space for artists like Agathe Snow and Bill Beckley. Founded by Thorsten Albertz, whose eclectic background includes running the Goethe Institute in Tokyo and navigating the recession-era art world, the gallery champions both emerging talents and overlooked veterans. Currently featured is Japanese artist Motohiko Odani’s immersive installation, "A Cosmic Traveler of Blindness," an evocative underwater journey through sculptures cast from a blind man’s features, running through June 18. Looking ahead, Albertz Benda prepares a significant fall exhibition honoring Ed Moses, a seminal L.A. abstract painter and educator whose enduring influence remains vital despite ebbing market spotlight.

Selldorf Architects, led by Annabelle Selldorf, redefines contemporary architecture through a thoughtful, restrained approach that prioritizes personal experience and quiet dialogue over spectacle. Their diverse portfolio—from art galleries and museums to civic centers and private homes—eschews imposing styles or grand gestures, instead embracing a process marked by collaboration, careful deliberation, and an elegant balance between logic and intuition. Rooted in a nuanced understanding of Modernism yet resistant to dogma, their work fosters a subtle yet powerful connection between space and user, blending understated refinement with a critical intelligence that speaks directly to human needs and cultural contexts. With an expanding scope that now includes large residential and institutional projects, Selldorf Architects continues to innovate by harmonizing precision with informality, crafting architecture that feels both unassuming and profoundly resonant.

The recent spring auctions, defying gloomy predictions, totaled a robust $1 billion, largely propelled by Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa’s dazzling spree on high-profile works from Basquiat to Koons. Yet beneath the blockbuster sales lies an "hourglass market": masterpieces at the top sell readily, emerging artists at the bottom still offer bargains, but mid-tier works face uncertainty. Amid shifting tastes and cautious collectors, artists like Agnes Martin and Helen Frankenthaler show surprising resilience, while Julian Schnabel’s market awaits renewed momentum. Meanwhile, increased museum acquisitions signal a growing recognition—and still potential undervaluation—of African American artists, highlighted by forthcoming cultural milestones like the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Even in a soft market, the timeless allure of the nude endures, with nearly every piece finding a buyer, underscoring its recession-proof appeal.