Stories

Liz Giardina, vice president of design at Derek Lam 10 Crosby, shares her passion for fashion and art through a curated selection of bold, contemporary pieces from Artspace’s archive. With a background in sculpture and a lifelong dream of designing fashion, Giardina highlights works that resonate with her love for materiality, elegance, and storytelling—from the purity and imperfect edges in Nicole Wermers' art to the vibrant, whimsical elements in Candida Höfer’s photography. Each piece reflects her unique vision, blending sophistication with free-spirited charm, offering savvy shoppers a glimpse into the creative inspirations behind one of New York’s most exciting fashion labels.

Gordon Stevenson, aka Baron Von Fancy, is a New York City-based artist renowned for his hand-painted phrase work that pays homage to the fading art of traditional signage. His creative process is driven by impatience and immersion, finding joy in losing track of time while crafting his vibrant, playful hand-lettered pieces. Recently, Gordon embraced the thrilling challenge of becoming a bike messenger in NYC, aiming to deliver 500 food orders each accompanied by a signed print. His inspiration is sparked by the history of puns and wordplay, which fuels his clever and emotional artwork. Influenced by artists like Sol Lewitt, Ed Ruscha, and Tim Noble & Sue Webster—whose piece "Forever" captivates him even as a jpeg—Gordon’s studio practice centers on the humble pencil as his first creative step. He cherishes authenticity in his work, carefully selecting phrases he personally connects with, all while revisiting nostalgic reads like classic Batman comics and exploring new linguistic landscapes through books on puns. Whether humorous or profound, his art aims to evoke genuine feelings through unexpected and memorable word-object pairings.

Berlin-based artist Ólafur Elíasson, renowned for his immersive installations like The Weather Project at Tate Modern, has transformed the cafeteria lunch at his ninety-person studio into a daily, family-style, farm-to-table dining experience that nourishes both body and creative spirit. Designed as the heart of his light-filled studio, the communal kitchen brings together a diverse international team who share simple, wholesome meals prepared by skilled chefs, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration and inspiration. Echoing the principles behind Alice Waters’ Edible Schoolyard and the Rome Sustainable Food Project, Eliasson’s kitchen exemplifies how food can transcend sustenance to become an artistic catalyst, nurturing dialogue, friendship, and cross-disciplinary innovation in a space where art and life seamlessly intertwine.

This week’s New York contemporary auctions showcase stunning works by the art world’s biggest names, but you don’t have to break the bank to own a piece. From Bruce Nauman’s playful fingerprint print to Gerhard Richter’s boundary-pushing photolithograph collaboration with Sigmar Polke, there are accessible treasures alongside high-end masterpieces like Andy Warhol’s iconic Electric Chair and Christopher Wool’s sleek digital inkjet prints. Meanwhile, Richard Prince continues his muscle car fascination, and Maurizio Cattelan’s edgy enamel plate sets offer a quirky art-meets-design experience. Whether you’re ready to splurge or on the hunt for a steal, this season’s selections offer a thrilling glimpse into today’s hottest art market must-haves.

The inaugural Artspace Fairgoer Awards celebrate the most captivating booths at this year's NADA New York, as chosen by the visitors themselves. Leading the pack is Kunstraum, a Clinton Hill gallery and co-working studio space known for its nostalgic "VIDEO SHOP" booth—a clever homage to old-school movie rental stores featuring $75 DVDs showcasing both original video art and classic bootlegs. Honored alongside Kunstraum are nine other standout galleries from around the world, highlighting a vibrant mix of local and international talent that made this edition of the fair truly memorable.

A decade after its founding, Dubai’s The Third Line gallery has become a vital platform showcasing contemporary Middle Eastern and North African artists, gaining significant international recognition and institutional support from major players like the Guggenheim UBS MAP Global Art Initiative. Established in 2005 to fill a glaring gap in Western galleries’ representation of MENA artists, the gallery has grown in visibility through consistent participation in top-tier art fairs such as Frieze New York and London, presenting artists like Abbas Akhavan, Ala Ebtekar, and Rana Begum. Navigating regional market shifts and economic challenges, The Third Line has expanded collectors' horizons beyond national boundaries, contributing to a broader appreciation of Middle Eastern art globally, while steadily building a respected brand synonymous with originality and quality in the contemporary art world.

Alexander S.C. Rower, president of the Calder Foundation, shares his vibrant experiences at this year’s Frieze New York, a fair he attends purely for enjoyment amidst its contemporary buzz. While Calder’s work is mostly absent, the event offers Rower a unique opportunity to reconnect with friends and discover captivating artists. Highlights include striking works like H.C. Westermann’s haunting WWII-inspired drawing, José Bento’s homage to Duchamp through mini replicas, and Justine Kurland’s intimate black-and-white photographs that evoke nostalgic family moments. Unexpected finds like Katsuyo Aoki’s extraordinary porcelain skull sculptures and Richard Nonas’s elegant, anthropology-inspired installation also stand out, making this Frieze New York a richer, more engaging artistic journey than ever before.

Collectors and philanthropists Susan and Michael Hort share their vibrant impressions from New York’s bustling art scene, highlighting standout works from Frieze, NADA, and local galleries. Their keen eye brings attention to artists like Gina Beavers, whose textured acrylic cubes mesmerize with their three-dimensional illusion, and Peter Linde Busk, whose loose figuration invites viewer participation. They celebrate bold evolution in artists like Alex Olson and Benjamin Senior, and explore Naama Tsabar’s innovative felt wall pieces that double as musical instruments. From Sadie Benning’s puzzle-like painted wood to Nicole Eisenman’s politically charged figurative work at the New Museum, the Horts showcase an exciting range of contemporary art, underscoring their passion for diverse, boundary-pushing creativity across mediums and styles.

Gerard O’Brien, a Los Angeles design dealer known for blurring the lines between postwar California furniture and fine art, has transformed his gallery experience by integrating provocative contemporary and historical artworks alongside classic design pieces. Initially met with slow sales, his commitment to this blended approach led to the opening of a dedicated 3,000-square-foot art space, directed by Sam Parker. Their innovative program fosters a dynamic dialogue between past and present, showcased in standout works like Peter Saul and Clayton Bailey’s 1974 ceramic collaboration, Jennie Jieun Lee’s captivating sculptures, and a politically charged centerpiece by Sally Saul that vividly captures the turbulence of American politics. This fresh vision is redefining how art and design coexist in Los Angeles today.

Mexican artist Pia Camil combines sustainability, fashion, and participatory art in her latest Artspace Edition collaboration with designer Erin Lewis, offering one-of-a-kind wearable pieces made from unwanted factory fabrics sourced from Mexico City. Known for her audience-engaging installations and textile-based works that explore capitalist production, Camil presents two unique shirt designs—a functional work shirt with an attached multipurpose bag and a stylish party shirt with a versatile strap—each a statement piece that blurs the line between art and apparel while supporting the New Museum.

Fresh from NADA New York, this vibrant collection of paintings offers a captivating glimpse into the diverse voices and visions shaping contemporary art today. From Orion Martin’s delicate Art Nouveau-inspired canvases to Chloe Wise’s witty critique of advertising, and Dale Lewis’s raw, memory-laden figures to Tschabalala Self’s evocative sewn portraits, these works blend sophistication, playfulness, and incisive commentary. The fair showcases a dazzling array of styles, including Joe Fyfe’s minimalist found-material grace, Vanessa Gully-Santiago’s eerie explorations of online exhibitionism, and Rachel Rossin’s immersive virtual-reality-inspired pieces. New talents like Gahee Park and Abigail DeVille mingle with established names like Alexander Kosolapov and Lucien Smith, all contributing to a thrilling snapshot of painting’s current language—bold, eclectic, and irresistibly engaging.

At this year’s NADA New York, the contemporary art scene buzzes with youthful energy and experimental flair, showcasing fascinating mini-trends that reveal where today’s emerging artists are focusing their creativity. Upcycling takes center stage with artists like Samuel Levi Jones transforming discarded books into intricate wall pieces, Mark Delong stitching discarded cardboard into vibrant “tapestries,” and Fernando Otero assembling found objects into evocative sculptural boxes. Video games also make a striking impact, with works that delve into their social and economic dimensions, virtual reality explorations by Rachel Rossin, and digital landscapes by Yael Kanarek that presage today’s tech-driven world. In a quirky yet meaningful nod to art history, urinals return as provocative symbols—from Alexander Kosolapov’s pop-inflected homage to Duchamp, to Oren Pinhassi’s sensual glass sculptures, and Jamie Sneider’s poignant bedpan-centered work reflecting on illness and care—making NADA New York a dynamic snapshot of contemporary art’s bold and diverse directions.

Frieze New York returns with a more restrained yet compelling showcase focused on painting and sculpture, spotlighting works that evoke powerful narratives and emotional depth. Highlights include David Wojnarowicz’s incendiary 1985 installation confronting urban decay and historical trauma, Ghada Amer’s vibrant, erotically charged ceramics, and Wanda Czeklowska’s neo-primitivist sculptures newly rediscovered after decades. Henry Taylor’s psychologically insightful portraits and Thea Djordjadze’s ghostly sculptural forms blur the boundaries between space and perception. The late Derek Jarman’s vivid, confessional canvases speak to resilience amid loss, while Stewart Uoo’s dystopian figures capture contemporary angst with urgency. Iconic pieces from Andy Warhol’s darkly ironic “Death and Disaster” series and Lisa Yuskavage’s provocatively tender paintings showcase the range from pop culture critique to intimate vulnerability. Conceptual depth meets material exploration in Sam Lewitt’s algorithmic work reflecting on digital life and communal belonging, making this year’s fair a rich tapestry of artistic voices and visions.

Frieze New York stands as the premier art fair in May, attracting top galleries, celebrated artists, and vibrant crowds to Randall’s Island, yet it also champions emerging talents through its Frame section. Among the freshest faces are Li Ming, who transforms smartphone imagery into ghostly, fingerprint-inspired canvases and kites drifting away in video; Paulo Nimer Pjota, a Brazilian artist fusing graffiti roots with political commentary in his collages on discarded iron; Sam Moyer, whose subtle marble sculptures are embedded into pared-down canvas structures she designs herself; Joris van de Moortel, who repurposes his band’s performance debris into neon-lit compositions brimming with punk energy; and Hayden Dunham, a multifaceted creator exploring transformation through vaporous sculptures, pseudoscientific “batteries,” and an enigmatic pop singer alter ego. These artists signal a dynamic, multifaceted new generation reshaping contemporary art with innovation and conceptual depth.

When Frieze launched its New York art fair on Randall’s Island, critics doubted Harlem could rival Manhattan’s art hubs—but the neighborhood’s historic charm, vibrant community, and affordable spaces have sparked a thriving gallery scene that’s here to stay. From pioneering dealers like Gavin Brown to international collaborations in repurposed firehouses, Harlem is blossoming into a dynamic arts district that honors its rich cultural roots while embracing new energy. With expanding museum landmarks, renowned chefs bringing culinary flair, and striking public art installations, Harlem offers a unique blend of creativity, history, and warmth, making it an exciting destination for art lovers ready to explore beyond the traditional downtown circuit.

American artist Sarah Sze’s intricate installations blur the boundaries of sculpture, architecture, and drawing to explore the fragile, ever-shifting nature of objects and space. Known for her acclaimed 2013 Venice Biennale piece *Triple Point*, Sze challenges traditional notions of sculpture by weaving together quotidian materials—mass-produced, low-value objects—into complex, site-specific environments that evoke the tension between order and chaos, presence and decay. Her work invites viewers into choreographed experiences that demand care and slowness, transforming physical spaces into dynamic landscapes where perception and memory intertwine. Drawing from architectural ideas and the immediacy of drawing, Sze creates immersive narratives of form and disintegration, revealing how we assign meaning and value to the objects that surround us. Through her innovative use of scale and materiality, she critiques historical and cultural constructs while cultivating an intimate dialogue between the ephemeral and the enduring in contemporary life.

Benjamin Godsill, a seasoned curator and contemporary art specialist, shares his dynamic picks for NADA New York 2016, spotlighting a bold mix of young, boundary-pushing artists. From Louisa Gagliardi’s darkly seductive fusion of new media and traditional composition to the innovative works of Nicholas Cueva and Benjamin Reiss showcased by the edgy Lower East Side gallery 247365, Godsill highlights artists who challenge conventions. He also discovers fresh talent in Brooklyn’s American Medium gallery with Wickerham and Lomax’s captivating pieces, while praising the daring spirit of The Estate of Joel Mesler presented by Cultural Counsel, a hybrid of art world roles that reflects the evolving scene. Among his favorites are Jeffrey Tranchell’s enigmatic creations from Essex Flowers and Ara Dymond’s sculpture that brilliantly melds influences with refined energy. Godsill’s selections paint a vibrant picture of art that’s provocative, intelligent, and absolutely worth watching.

Sterling Lawrence is a Chicago-based artist whose practice centers around sculpture, incorporating elements of installation, painting, and printmaking. His work challenges traditional relationships between objects, space, and images, inviting viewers to reconsider function and form in everyday environments. Currently exhibiting "Substitution Play" at DOCUMENT Gallery, Lawrence draws inspiration from diverse sources like camping gear, Carl Aubock’s design, and essays on contemporary art. Influenced by artists such as Heimo Zobernig and Dennis Oppenheim, his process involves creating units of work that build narrative and character without fixed endpoints, exploring how sculpture engages the body and challenges visual perception through open-ended, functional forms.

Jenny Jaskey, director of the Artist's Institute, offers a compelling glimpse into this year's NADA New York, highlighting artists who transform everyday materials into emotionally rich and thought-provoking works. From Dave Hardy's precarious yet confident sculptures reminiscent of John Chamberlain's soft foam creations to Brigid Berlin's iconic Polaroids capturing Warhol's muse Jackie Curtis, the selections resonate with history and innovation. Andy Coolquitt’s playful lightbulb sculptures blend function and whimsy, while Sue Tompkins’ concrete poem reflects the era's political oddities. Jaskey also praises Alex Da Corte's magical and unsettling suburban-inspired environments and Margaret Lee’s hand-painted plaster pieces, supported by the nurturing community of The Shandaken Project. This curated journey celebrates the inventiveness and emotional depth thriving within today’s contemporary art scene.

Spencer Bailey, editor-in-chief of Surface and Noguchi Museum trustee, draws on his rich journalistic background to spotlight standout pieces at NADA New York 2016. From David Armstrong Six’s sculptures evoking Tom Sachs’s DIY aesthetic to Sam Contis’s evocative landscape prints inspired by the American West, Bailey’s curated picks reveal a deep appreciation for contemporary art’s diverse languages. Highlights include John Dante Bianchi’s cloud-like panels, Edie Fake’s graphic nods to the Memphis Group, and Akira Ikezoe’s vibrant paintings blending Japanese influence with modern flair. Bailey also admires the quiet meditation in Yoshiaki Mochizuki’s work and the striking prints of Linn Pedersen, demonstrating an uncanny ability to connect art across cultures and styles with thoughtful insight and enthusiasm.

Peter Knell, VP of business development at WME | IMG and a keen art collector, shares his top emerging artists to watch at NADA New York. From Yoshio Shirakawa’s quietly compelling mixed media work that sparks curiosity, to Ara Dymond’s intriguing bronze and slate sculptures inspired by his collaborations with Darren Bader, Knell highlights a diverse range of talent. He also admires Nikki Maloof’s captivating acrylic paintings rooted in their shared Midwestern background, alongside Bernardo Ortiz’s delicate Colombian gouache and graphite pieces. Alexandra Noel’s evocative oil painting “Pull Yourself Together (New York)” reflects the tension of urban domestic life, while Fritzia Irizar’s gold sheet works explore themes of value and currency, resonating deeply with Knell’s collecting sensibilities. This curated glimpse into contemporary art promises fresh perspectives and powerful narratives from rising stars.

Celebrated on the eve of the Met Costume Institute's Manus x Machina exhibition, the Met Gala spotlighted visionary designers who have seamlessly blended fashion with technology, pushing sartorial boundaries into the future. From André Courrèges’ geometric space-age miniskirts and Paco Rabanne’s aluminium chainmail dresses to Iris van Herpen’s breathtaking 3D-printed sculptures, these pioneers have redefined materials and craftsmanship with a futuristic edge. Designers like Pierre Cardin and Nicolas Ghesquière transformed traditional couture into sleek, technology-inspired statements, while Gareth Pugh and Walter Van Beirendonck dared to explore otherworldly aesthetics influenced by performance and digital-age culture. This fusion of past innovations and cutting-edge techniques embodies a bold dialogue between fashion, science, and imagination, crafting a visionary narrative that looks to tomorrow while rooted in history.

Swedish chef Magnus Nilsson, renowned for his culinary mastery at Fäviken Magasinet, reveals another passion in his latest work: photography. Having journeyed extensively across the Nordic countries while gathering recipes for The Nordic Cookbook, Nilsson now invites us to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes, unique foods, and vibrant people through his personally curated photographic collection, Nordic: A Photographic Essay of Landscapes, Food and People. This visual journey captures striking moments—from the rugged Atlantic coast and Icelandic thermal ovens to dynamic scenes like puffins in flight, traditional Karelian pasty preparation in Helsinki, and everyday life in Nordic towns—offering a rich, intimate glimpse into the soul of the North.

As Silicon Valley-style disruption transforms the art world with new digital platforms and calls for transparency, collector Megan Green draws fascinating parallels between the evolution of art and music industries. With deep roots in both, Green highlights how curation—whether via algorithms or human touch—has become central to discovery in both fields. Her music-themed collection reflects this intersection, featuring works like Christian Marclay’s record-cover collage and Alex Da Corte’s dark homage to Nirvana, exploring themes of cultural history and rebellion. Green’s perspective bridges the communal, physical experience of music with the increasingly interdisciplinary and accessible art scene, underscoring how festivals and fairs today create shared spaces that marry commerce and personal connection in both worlds.

This year’s Tate Britain Commission features Pablo Bronstein’s ambitious performance piece, *Historical Dances in an Antique Setting*, which transforms the Duveen Galleries into a dynamic and theatrical stage blending dance styles from Baroque elegance to modern club culture. Running continuously for six months, this innovative work draws on the Italian concept of sprezzatura—an effortless grace—and explores the interplay between architectural space and movement. Bronstein, who draws inspiration from his lifelong obsession with architecture and the emotional grandeur of Piranesi’s fantasies, creates a vivid, ever-changing tableau that invites viewers to reconsider the museum as both a public arena and a dramatic set. With a playful yet refined approach, the performance challenges traditional museum experiences by weaving history, artifice, and dance into a mesmerizing spectacle that breathes new life into the Tate’s iconic space.

Appreciating art goes far beyond admiring its surface beauty; it invites us to become detectives unraveling the story behind each piece. Consider how the artwork was made—every brushstroke or camera angle reveals the artist’s craft and intention. Explore the materials used, from unexpected objects to pigments transformed into vibrant visions. Let art set your imagination free, offering fresh perspectives that challenge ordinary views. Reflect on its dialogue with art history, whether in homage or rebellion, and consider how it connects to society by illuminating hidden truths or sparking critical conversations. Finally, embrace the avant-garde, where unfamiliar or unsettling works may herald the future of artistic expression. By delving into these layers, you open yourself to a richer, more profound experience of art.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir, a pioneering figure of Impressionism, continues to inspire contemporary artists through his intimate portraits and vibrant depictions of Parisian life. Drawing from Phaidon's updated monograph and the Artspace archives, a captivating collection pairs Renoir’s iconic works—such as "The Dancer," "The Bathers," and "The Clown"—with modern pieces by artists like Michal Chelbin, Mickalene Thomas, and Cindy Sherman. These side-by-side comparisons reveal how Renoir’s exploration of human form, emotion, and everyday moments resonates across time, bridging the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries in a dynamic artistic dialogue.

Richard Tuttle, a pioneering figure in Postminimalist art since the 1960s, has continually challenged conventions with his delicate sculptures and textile assemblages made from humble materials. Despite initially facing harsh criticism and controversy, including a turbulent 1975 Whitney Museum show, Tuttle’s influence has deeply permeated contemporary art, inspiring younger generations. For Tuttle, art is a democratic and spiritual endeavor meant to elevate society’s consciousness and help people transcend suffering. Rejecting elitism, he envisions art as accessible and integral to everyday life, a creative force that frees individuals from their limitations. Through his long career and upcoming retrospective in New York, Tuttle advocates for creativity as a universal human attribute and insists on art’s vital role in society’s emotional and spiritual well-being.

Artspace's deputy editor highlights a dynamic lineup of artists featured at NADA New York 2016, showcasing a diverse array of compelling works. From Sam Contis’s evocative photographs exploring the American West to Daniel Faust’s extensive, quirky museum surveys, the fair promises a rich visual experience. Kyla Hansen offers text quilts filled with frontier grit, while Dave Hardy’s playful polyurethane foam sculptures contrast with sturdy metals. Akira Ikezoe presents intricate, emoji-like paintings brimming with imagination, and Deana Lawson’s intimate family portraits deepen with her recent global focus. Other standout contributors include Orion Martin’s precisionist-inspired paintings, Anja Salonen’s surreal, candy-colored tableaux, Sven Sachsalber’s performative collages, and Fred Terna’s poignant semi-abstract reflections rooted in his Holocaust survival. Together, these selections underscore the vibrant, inventive spirit defining this year’s fair.

New York collectors Susan and Michael Hort recently explored Europe’s vibrant art scene, culminating in a memorable visit to Art Brussels amid a city still healing from recent turmoil. Their journey included a surprising encounter in Molenbeek, revealing local realities beyond headlines. At the fair, they discovered striking works from artists like Jannis Varelas, Chris Hood, Marco Cingolani, and Claire Tabouret, praising the toughness and emotional depth of the pieces. From bold gestural paintings by Russell Tyler to luminous installations by Kristof Kintera and James Clar, the Horts shared their admiration for fresh, expressive voices shaping contemporary art. Their reflections also highlight promising talents showcased in Brussels galleries, affirming the city as an essential hub for collectors eager to engage with evolving artistic narratives.

Super Dakota, a vibrant Brussels gallery founded by Parisian Damîen Bertelle-Rogier, has quickly distinguished itself through a curated program that bridges generations and dialogues with art history, showcasing artists from emerging French abstract painters to established minimalists and overlooked postwar photographers. Drawing on his background in music industry artist management, Bertelle-Rogier champions transparency and clear contracts in the often opaque art world, fostering trust among artists and collectors alike. Amidst the city's evolving art scene and recent challenges, the gallery remains focused on long-term artist development, thoughtful international expansion, and passionate engagement with both traditional and new media forms, all while nurturing a rigorous, honest critical voice inspired by figures like Robert Hughes. With a laid-back yet dedicated approach, Super Dakota embraces steady growth over flashy expansion, embodying a unique vision that resonates beyond Brussels’ intimate but dynamic contemporary art community.

Brussels is rapidly emerging as a dynamic hub for contemporary art, attracting galleries from London to Brooklyn and fostering a vibrant community fueled by affordable rents and a steady influx of creative talent. From established institutions like WIELS and BOZAR to innovative artist-run spaces like Island, the city buzzes with fresh exhibitions and ambitious projects making waves internationally. Galleries such as Albert Baronian, Box Galerie, and Xavier Hufkens showcase a diverse range of artists, blending established names with rising stars, while daring spaces like D+T Project Gallery and Super Dakota champion cutting-edge and politically resonant art. In this richly layered scene, new entrants like Rod Barton find an inviting ecosystem, highlighting Brussels as the perfect blend of tradition, experimentation, and accessibility, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and collectors alike.

Selldorf Architects, recently celebrated in Architectural Digest’s AD100 list and honored with the AIANY 2016 Design Award for their work on David Zwirner's 20th Street gallery, continues to define excellence in gallery, exhibition, and studio design. Renowned for collaborations with top-tier art institutions and private residences, their portfolio features stunning spaces such as Neue Galerie, Hauser & Wirth, and the Chelsea Townhouse, each showcasing their refined approach to blending functionality with artistic elegance. Highlighted in Phaidon’s latest monograph and captured through Todd Eberle’s lens, these ten breathtaking projects reflect Selldorf Architects’ signature blend of innovation and timeless design.

Collectors Michael and Susan Hort share their vibrant discoveries from Cologne and Berlin’s dynamic art scenes, highlighting contemporary artists who are redefining painting and sculpture with innovative materials and captivating techniques. From Karsten Fodinger’s quirky sculptures and Slawomir Elsner’s mesmerizing cross-hatched portraits in Cologne to Berlin’s Martin Eder’s sensuous, realistic paintings and Tamina Amadyar’s evolving colorful landscapes, the couple offers an insider’s glimpse into a thriving art world alive with creativity and fresh energy. Their picks include bold bronze works, intricate collages, and boundary-pushing mixed media pieces, reflecting a renewed excitement for painting and a deep engagement with today’s most compelling artists.

Scott Reeder, an artist and gallerist based in Detroit and Chicago, brings his signature humor to a diverse body of work that ranges from text-based art and pasta noodle paintings to innovative events like the flashlight-lit "Dark Fair." His 2015 print series "New Kinds of Music" playfully imagines absurd music genres such as “Drunk Classical” and “Experimental Car Alarms,” blending conceptual art with witty comedy reminiscent of Steven Wright and Ed Ruscha. Reeder’s creative ventures extend into film, performance, and collaborative gallery management with his family, making him a dynamic and multifaceted figure in contemporary art known for blending levity with sharp conceptual insights.

American artist Mark Bradford has been named the United States’ representative for the 57th Venice Biennale, a fitting recognition of his powerful abstract works that blend social commentary with layered collaged materials. Drawing from the vibrant streets of Leimert Park, his South Los Angeles neighborhood, Bradford transforms discarded merchant posters, advertisements, and found papers into monumental, textured canvases that reflect the urban landscape’s complexity and life. These pieces, while seemingly abstract, reveal deep connections to the city’s economy, culture, and community, inviting viewers into an experience grounded in real life and charged with personal and collective history. Influenced by figures like Hélio Oiticica, Bradford’s art challenges traditional boundaries, weaving fragmented urban narratives into open-ended compositions that resonate with both intimate poignancy and broad social significance.

Elizabeth Atterbury, a 34-year-old artist based in Portland, Maine, channels her creative energy primarily through photography and sculpture. Growing up in the meticulously designed landscape of Palm Beach, Florida, she draws inspiration from the sculptural qualities of her hometown’s manicured environment. Her upcoming solo show, "Happy Sunny Jade," opening in Chicago, delves into themes of personal origins with a captivating blend of photographs and painted steel sculptures. Atterbury’s artistic process involves constructing ephemeral tableaux from materials like paper and sand, exploring the boundaries between artifact, prop, and sculpture. Influenced by artists such as Isamu Noguchi and captivated by the interplay of form and movement in contemporary shows like Math Bass’s "Off the Clock," she continues to deepen her dialogue on display, ritual, and abstraction in her work.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Art Cologne upheld its reputation for rigorous, high-quality contemporary art, showcasing standout works that reflect both tradition and provocative modernity. From Alex Katz’s tender, rare nude portrait to Brian Maguire’s haunting social commentary on Ciudad Juarez, the fair balanced rich narratives and aesthetic mastery. Highlights included Christo’s poignant wrapped edition supporting the Whitney Museum, Juergen Teller’s audacious portrait of Kim Kardashian, and Wolfgang Tillmans’s intimate photo evoking artistic kinship. Gerhard Richter’s luxurious tapestries, Atelier van Lieshout’s sculptural totems, Emma Talbot’s psychologically charged dreamscapes, and Andrea Bowers’s radical feminist pirate ship platform embodied the event’s diverse spirit. Closing with François Morellet’s innovative neon deconstructions, the fair honored both venerated legends and cutting-edge creations, captivating a discerning audience with art that resonates far beyond the exhibition walls.

Discover a captivating fusion of history, culture, and contemporary artistry in this carefully curated selection of irresistible artworks that tempt both the heart and wallet. From Ilya Kabakov’s iconic Soviet-era symbol of the fly paired with a whimsical angel, to Sanford Biggers’ vibrant textiles blending African-American heritage with Japanese influences, each piece tells a powerful story. Experience Park McArthur’s poignant photographic prints that challenge physical boundaries, or marvel at Adam McEwen’s astonishing graphite sculpture of a soy sauce bottle that blurs reality and artifice. Meanwhile, Christopher Wool’s striking black-and-white lithograph offers a rare opportunity to own a masterpiece by one of today’s most influential painters, and Neïl Beloufa’s playful yet profound photographic work injects humor into postmodern dehumanization. Whether you’re ready to splurge or steal, this collection is a thrilling invitation to engage with art that is as intellectually rich as it is visually seductive.

Art Cologne’s latest edition showcases a striking array of contemporary talents, especially on its vibrant third floor featuring NADA x ART COLOGNE COLLABORATIONS and New Contemporaries. Highlights include Petrit Halilaj’s poignant monumental recreations of childhood graffiti from Kosovo, Luca Bertolo’s lush landscapes painted on unexpected plastic plates, and Stuart Ringholt’s provocative, nude art tours and sculptural car collages challenging notions of voyeurism. London’s Yuri Pattison explores the tension between sleep and relentless modernity through immersive installations, while young New York painter Grace Weaver captures the charm and clumsiness of youth with punchy, Persian miniature-inspired compositions. The Polish artist Sławomir Elsner reinterprets Old Masters with delicate colored-pencil blurs, and the late Verena Pfisterer’s powerful works confront gender and religious patriarchy. Australian Ry David Bradley invites interaction with his digitally distorted images on suede, and Julius von Bismarck offers haunting reflections on space exploration’s failures through found footage and sculpture. Together, these artists embody a thrilling blend of innovation, political depth, and playful experimentation that defines today’s cutting-edge art scene.

Brutalist architecture, known for its bold use of concrete, monumental scale, and futuristic aesthetic, rose to prominence in the postwar era with a focus on utility and strength. Beyond iconic figures like Le Corbusier and Marcel Breuer, this architectural style has inspired a diverse array of global works, from Erich Mendelsohn’s Hat Factory in Germany to the striking Monument Ilinden in Macedonia. Contemporary architects continue to reinterpret brutalism’s raw, sculptural forms, seen in projects spanning Israel, Bangladesh, Iceland, France, Greece, Georgia, North Korea, and the Netherlands, demonstrating the style’s enduring influence and its powerful, concrete expression worldwide.

Taiwanese chef André Chiang elevates dining to an art form at his renowned Restaurant André, celebrated among the world’s best. His innovative approach to ingredients and presentation results in visually stunning and delightfully inventive dishes that challenge culinary conventions. Drawing from his new book *Octaphilosophy*, here are ten remarkable creations—from playful takes on comfort foods to sophisticated compositions like Burnt Aubergine with Burnt Miso and Oyster paired with Baby Mushroom and Green Apple—that tantalize both the eyes and the palate, leaving food lovers eager for more.

Fanny Allié, a Brooklyn-based artist originally from Montpellier, France, creates compelling collages and installations that explore the weight of personal belongings and the human body’s relationship to its environment. Drawing inspiration from everyday street scenes and museum encounters, she reassembles newsprint images to craft unique characters and structures, as seen in her "Cardboard Portrait" and "The Carriers" series—where hand-stitched silhouettes on canvas merge bodies with their surroundings. Her process is deeply intuitive, rooted in a passion that began with photographing her sisters as a teenager, evolving into site-specific public art like "A Bench for the Night." Influenced by artists such as Romare Bearden and an eclectic personal pantheon, Allié’s work challenges the repetitive and overly conceptual in contemporary art, instead focusing on tangible stories of memory, loss, and human connection.

Jack Hanley’s remarkable journey from Grateful Dead roadie to influential New York art dealer reveals a vibrant fusion of music, art, and community. Operating his gallery from a basement office stacked with memorabilia, Hanley’s eclectic background—touring with legendary bands, studying painting under icons like Joan Brown, and running galleries across Austin, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York—shapes his unique approach to art. Known for championing groundbreaking artists like Tauba Auerbach and embracing the evolving role of technology and social media, Hanley views art fairs much like musical tours, vibrant gatherings fueled by connection and experimentation. His story radiates an engaging blend of personal anecdotes, from unforgettable fair experiences infused with love potions to navigating the digital age’s impact on art, painting a portrait of a dealer who thrives at the crossroads of culture, creativity, and authenticity.

Land Art in America, born from the 1960s creative surge, continues to captivate with monumental, site-specific artworks scattered across the countryside. Notably, the Storm King Art Center in upstate New York offers a stunning outdoor gallery where sculptures by Isamu Noguchi, Maya Lin, Richard Serra, and others interact dynamically with the rolling landscape, inviting visitors to experience art from multiple perspectives. Nearby, Harvey Fite’s Opus 40 transforms a former quarry into an expansive environmental sculpture woven with stone ramps, terraces, and pathways, reflecting decades of dedicated craftsmanship and evoking the grandeur of ancient monuments. Together, these sites embody the enduring spirit of Land Art, blending nature, creativity, and history into immersive destinations for explorers and art lovers alike.

Object-Oriented Ontology (OOO) is shaking up the art world by challenging our human-centered view of existence, proposing that all things—living, nonliving, artificial, or conceptual—possess their own realities and agency beyond human perception. This philosophy inspires artists like Pamela Rosenkranz, Eduardo Navarro, and Pierre Huyghe to create works that reveal the hidden “lives” and interactions of objects, emphasizing their independence and charismatic presence. Rejecting the traditional focus on human experience, OOO urges us to imagine a world where objects interact on their own terms, provoking both fascination and controversy as critics debate its ethical implications and the potential dehumanizing effects of posthumanist thought. In embracing this radical materialism, OOO invites us to reconsider our place in a vibrant, interconnected multiverse where every being matters equally.

Cultural theorist Timotheus Vermeulen, known for pioneering the concept of metamodernism, offers a compelling exploration of contemporary art through his reflections on works presented at NADA + Art Cologne. From Andrea Büttner’s thought-provoking rearrangement of aesthetic and social hierarchies to Karsten Fodinger’s evocative rocket sculpture built from heavy materials, Vermeulen delves into art that challenges perception and meaning. He highlights Sofia Hulten’s subtle yet powerful duplication of reality, Yamini Nayar’s richly layered photograph blending multiple artistic discourses, and Hayley Aviva Silverman’s enigmatic sculptural collage that invites deep engagement and curiosity. Through these diverse creations, Vermeulen captures the restless, multifaceted spirit of modern artistic inquiry.

Tbilisi-born, Berlin-based sculptor Thea Djordjadze captivates with her fragile, enigmatic forms that blur the lines between materiality and gesture, tradition and modernity. Her works—crafted from plaster, clay, and papier-mâché—evoke a haunting presence, resembling fossilized artifacts or ritualistic props suspended between past and future. By disrupting Modernist ideals of perfection and functionality, Djordjadze infuses geometric rigor with raw human imperfection, grounding her sculptures physically and conceptually to the earth. Her innovative approach extends to the presentation of her pieces, where pedestals merge with the artwork itself, challenging the viewer’s perception and hierarchy of form in ways reminiscent of Brancusi’s radical plinths. This evolving dialogue between object and base, autonomy and context, marks Djordjadze as a vital voice reshaping contemporary sculpture today.

New York artist Cary Leibowitz, known for his dry humor and self-deprecating wit, brings his unique brand of comedy to a collection of inscribed brass belt buckles created for his 2013 solo show. These playful yet poignant pieces celebrate whimsical, culturally savvy reinterpretations of rural Americana, from quirky events like the “Forty-Fourth Fluxus Ice Cream Cone Lick-Off” to the “Alice B. B. Toklas Clam Bake Bake Sale.” Embracing his title as a “losers’ loser,” Leibowitz’s work, described by Artforum as a “compendium of disappointments,” blends functional art with sharp social commentary that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits—and keep your pants up—with equal parts humor and heart.

Sandro Botticelli's masterful Early Renaissance works, famed for their rich religious iconography and timeless beauty, continue to resonate deeply within contemporary art. Drawing from Phaidon's updated Botticelli monograph and the Artspace archives, a compelling collection pairs Botticelli’s iconic pieces—like The Virgin, Madonna and Child, Nativity, Annunciation, Crucifixion, and Pietà—with modern interpretations by artists such as Walter & Zoniel, Steven Lyon, AES+F, Ilya Kabakov, and Julian Schnabel. These striking juxtapositions not only celebrate Botticelli's enduring influence but also highlight how his spiritual narratives and visual motifs remain powerfully relevant, inspiring new generations to explore faith, humanity, and artistic expression through a contemporary lens.

For a decade, Henry Taylor balanced his role as a psychiatric technician at Camarillo State Mental Hospital with his passion for art, creating deeply empathetic and surreal portraits of patients living with schizophrenia. His intimate sketches and paintings capture the raw humanity, struggles, and resilience of individuals often overlooked by society, revealing moments of quiet confinement, vivid emotions, and the complex realities of mental illness. These early works, now showcased in his Los Angeles project space, highlight how Taylor’s experiences shaped his sensitive, psychologically charged approach to portraiture, embracing the imperfect and unseen with patience and profound understanding. Through his art, Taylor invites us to see the dignity and stories of those society frequently ignores, forging a powerful connection between artist, subject, and viewer.

Innovative architects and designers are reshaping how we create spaces for our pets, blending form and function with sustainability and playful creativity. From Klaas Kuiken’s Birdhouse Rooftile that integrates bird nesting with urban roofing, to Chad Wright’s colorful Attic birdhouses, these designs rethink traditional shelters. Kenya Hara’s D-Tunnel and MVRDV’s rocking Beagle House tailor environments that engage dogs physically and emotionally, while Productora’s geometric Casa Lapiz merges shelter with sculptural elegance. Eco-conscious efforts shine through JAM Furniture’s recycled Nestbox and Poopy Cat’s modular cardboard playhouses, offering adaptable, lightweight fun for feline friends. Complementing these are philanthropic projects like Space International’s Cat Chalet and Standard Architecture’s concrete Cat Cube, which support animal welfare causes. French studio Fabbricabois’s multifunctional Nidin exemplifies seamless integration of shelter, furniture, and aesthetics, illustrating how pet architecture is becoming a vibrant, thoughtful frontier in design.

Rottet Studios, renowned for their work with global clients like Rolex and Sony, draws inspiration from the Light and Space movement to transform interiors into expansive, emotionally engaging environments through art. Founding Principle Lauren Rottet and her team reveal how carefully chosen artworks—ranging from immersive photographs by Andrew Moore to vibrant pieces by Candida Höfer—can visually extend small spaces and create dynamic atmospheres. Whether calming with soothing imagery like Thomas Ruff’s serene waters or energizing with abstract compositions by Judy Ledgerwood, their expert advice shows how strategic art placement can redefine your home’s dimensions and mood without structural changes, inviting you to travel far without ever leaving your living room.

Maria Lynch is a multidisciplinary artist working across painting, video, performance, installation, and music, driven by a desire to challenge conventional logic and create an atemporal dialogue through her work. Currently preparing for solo exhibitions in Los Angeles and São Paulo, she explores immersive installations like her "Rooms Of Experience" series, which invites viewers to engage bodily and sensorially, transcending rational thought. Influenced by visionary filmmakers like Pierre Huyghe and Alejandro Jodorowsky, and inspired by a pantheon of diverse artists, Lynch’s creative process blends reality and fiction into evocative, non-linear narratives that evoke the subconscious. Her studio, a tactile playground of fragmented thoughts and amorphous forms, is where she crafts immersive worlds that invite catharsis and transformation.

As San Francisco faces an escalating crisis where soaring real estate driven by tech wealth threatens to displace its longstanding artistic community, Andy and Deborah Rappaport have launched the Minnesota Street Project—a groundbreaking mixed-use arts complex offering affordable, purpose-built studios, galleries, and nonprofit spaces designed to nurture and sustain the city's creative ecosystem. Drawing from their unique vantage point bridging Silicon Valley and the art world, the Rappaports aim to create an inclusive cultural hub that fosters connection between artists, galleries, tech entrepreneurs, and the broader public. Emphasizing shared resources, accessibility, and community engagement rather than pandering to tech trends, their visionary approach addresses the real estate challenge while reimagining art patronage for the modern era. With a vibrant public space, dynamic programming, and a commitment to preserving San Francisco’s artistic heritage, the Minnesota Street Project aspires to keep artists rooted in the city, elevate its cultural standing, and build lasting bridges between creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing landscape.

Contemporary architecture is boldly redefining its boundaries, blending art, innovation, and social commentary to create structures that transcend mere utility. From Martin Azúa’s foldable Basic House that challenges conventional notions of shelter, to Heatherwick Studio’s luminous Seed Pavilion adorned with thousands of seed-embedded fiber-optic rods, these works explore form, function, and environmental awareness with captivating creativity. Whether it’s the ethereal “Home within Home” by Do Ho Suh, the playful Tape City’s massive packing-tape web, or the interactive Coca-Cola Beatbox pulsating with Olympic energy, each project unveils a unique narrative. Embracing materials from recycled chairs to translucent fabrics and neon lights, these architectural artworks invite us to rethink space, community, and the very concept of home in imaginative and thought-provoking ways.

Andrew Masullo has mastered a unique and unwavering approach to painting since the early 1990s, creating intuitive, nonobjective works marked by vibrant compositions of shapes and colors rendered with unmixed oil paints on prestretched canvases. Rejecting the trend toward conceptual and political art of his era, he embraces simplicity in materials while crafting complex, soulful pieces that eschew real-world references, instead inviting viewers to connect on a purely emotional and spiritual level. With a career shaped by early struggles and steadfast dedication, Masullo’s distinctive method and enigmatic numeric titles have earned him a place in prominent exhibitions and galleries, underscoring his commitment to making paintings that live as individual “souls” open to interpretation.

Hong Kong, celebrated as the world’s newest art capital during the fourth annual Art Basel, offers not only a rich cultural experience but also a vibrant culinary scene reflective of its cosmopolitan spirit. From the edgy yet tradition-respecting Cantonese comfort dishes at Mott 32 to Ammo’s European classics infused with local creativity, the city’s dining options are as diverse as its art. Duddell’s blends fine Cantonese cuisine with an artistic atmosphere, while Ronin’s refined Japanese izakaya delights with expertly crafted small plates and a lively vibe. For breathtaking views paired with innovative cocktails, Ozone at the Ritz-Carlton boasts the highest bar on the planet, creating an unforgettable backdrop to Hong Kong’s dynamic food and art scene.

Edgar Degas, often seen as a 19th-century artist, emerges in MoMA’s exhibition “Edgar Degas: A Strange New Beauty” as a visionary who anticipated 20th-century art through his late bursts of innovative printmaking. Embracing process art, repetition, and abstraction, Degas transformed monotypes into dynamic mixtures of painting, drawing, photography, and film. His unconventional depictions of the female form—defiantly non-seductive and rooted in privacy—challenge traditional representations, while his experimental landscapes and urban scenes pulse with modern life’s energy. Through bold compositions and novel techniques, Degas not only captured the fleeting rhythms of the city but also redefined the artist’s role as a restless flâneur on the cusp of modernity.

In 1994, British artist and curator Matthew Higgs invited a group of artists at London’s Cabinet Gallery to create their own top ten lists on topics of their choice, featured in his publishing project Imprint 93. Among these, painter Peter Doig shared his favorite artists known for their depictions of houses, highlighting figures from Gustave Courbet and Edward Hopper to René Magritte and Ed Ruscha. This curated selection celebrates the unique ways these painters capture domestic architecture, blending atmosphere, history, and personal vision in their work. For further insight into Doig’s artistic perspective, Phaidon’s monograph from their Contemporary Artist Series offers an in-depth exploration.

Germany’s vibrant art scene extends beyond Berlin’s famed cultural buzz, with cities like Cologne standing out as dynamic hubs for emerging contemporary artists. Vancouver native Natalia Hug has embraced Cologne’s rich artistic heritage and supportive community through her eponymous gallery, which champions precision-driven works by early-career artists, many connected to the prestigious Düsseldorf Art Academy. Hug highlights Cologne’s discerning, well-informed collectors and the region’s unique ecosystem, where patient cultivation and intellectual engagement shape both artists and audiences. She contrasts Cologne’s thoughtful, steady art market with Berlin’s overheated, crowded atmosphere, celebrating the Rhineland’s stability and depth, exemplified by the city’s committed galleries and the significant platform of Art Cologne. Through focused exhibitions and careful curation, Hug is building a vibrant, evolving program that reflects the region’s sophisticated taste and nurturing spirit.

The Whitechapel Gallery’s "Electronic Superhighway" exhibition explores the evolution of digital and pre-digital art from the 1960s to today, showcasing 100 works by 70 artists who have shaped the intersection of technology and creativity. Highlights include Nam June Paik’s groundbreaking 1983 “Good Morning, Mr. Orwell,” a vibrant precursor to internet culture; Lynn Hershman Leeson’s unsettling “Lorna,” which anticipates virtual reality’s immersive power; and Cory Arcangel’s playful “Snowbunny/Lakes,” blending early computer aesthetics with pop art. Oliver Laric’s “Versions (Missile Variations)” cleverly interrogates authenticity in the digital age through viral imagery, while Jacolby Satterwhite’s mesmerizing 3D-animated tableau “En Plein Air” offers a hypnotic vision of the internet’s chaotic, dreamlike landscape. Together, these works trace a fascinating continuum of media art’s ever-accelerating dialogue with technology.

Herbert Muschamp, the influential New York Times architecture critic known for championing avant-garde artists, explores Robert Mapplethorpe’s stunning floral photography in this evocative essay. Muschamp reveals how Mapplethorpe’s flowers—ranging from humble daisies to luxurious orchids—embody a democratic beauty that transcends class and design, capturing fleeting moments of life as ritualistic, almost sacred acts. The photographs evoke a spiritual dimension, recalling religious symbolism and the intimate interplay of desire and memory, culminating in an intimate reflection on mortality through a simple yet profound tulip arrangement sent by Mapplethorpe before his death. This essay offers a compelling glimpse into the sensuality, reverence, and complexity behind Mapplethorpe’s iconic floral images.

Renowned for his provocative and intimate portraits, Robert Mapplethorpe also mastered the art of floral photography, revealing a different facet of his creative genius. Phaidon’s new compendium, *Mapplethorpe Flora: The Complete Flowers*, showcases ten stunning images that highlight his exceptional use of light and shadow to elevate flowers into powerful, elegant compositions. From orchids and tulips to calla lilies and roses entwined with smoke, these photographs capture the delicate beauty and striking presence of each bloom, inviting viewers to appreciate Mapplethorpe’s artistry beyond his usual bold subjects.

Renowned for his provocative black-and-white photography, Robert Mapplethorpe also revealed a stunning mastery of color in his floral images, beautifully captured in Phaidon's new compendium, *Mapplethorpe Flora: The Complete Flowers*. This collection showcases ten vibrant photographs of flowers like African Daisy, Orchid, Calla Lily, and Rose, highlighting Mapplethorpe’s remarkable ability to transform botanical subjects into vivid visual poetry. Celebrated for his meticulous composition and rich palettes, these images invite viewers to experience a different dimension of his artistry, blending boldness with delicate elegance.

Barkley L. Hendricks’s latest exhibition at Jack Shainman Gallery powerfully captures figures who are both fashionably striking and deeply emblematic of contemporary cultural dynamics. From his iconic 1969 portrait of Bobby Seale to new works addressing Black Lives Matter symbolism, Hendricks blends sartorial flair with complex social narratives, as seen in pieces like *In the Crosshairs of the States*, depicting a young black man framed by confederate imagery and gun crosshairs. Yet Hendricks resists reducing his work to politics alone, emphasizing instead a multifaceted approach that combines personal history, fashion, and innovative painting techniques across oil and acrylic mediums. His portraits range from intensely symbolic to playful and timeless, reflecting the breadth of his vision beyond racial and political categories, while pushing figurative painting into fresh terrain with bold compositional experiments and a renewed focus on the materiality of paint. Throughout, Hendricks challenges viewers and critics alike to see his art in full context, as a dynamic dialogue between style, identity, and artistic expression.

Mexican artist Edgardo Aragón channels the vibrant and complex spirit of Mexico’s rural landscapes into his politically charged performances, sculptures, and videos. Blending humor with history, folklore, and personal narratives, Aragón’s work explores themes like migration, corruption, and cultural memory. From his evocative video Invisible Man to upcoming projects tracing Pancho Villa’s legendary route, he fuses art with storytelling and social critique. Inspired by books, music, and everyday rumors, and fueled by his love of mezcal and mountain biking, Aragón navigates his creative journey with a playful yet profound approach, challenging viewers to rethink the world through his unique, multidisciplinary lens.

Jonas Wood stands out as one of today’s most compelling and sought-after artists, captivating collectors and dealers alike with his dynamic and enduring work. Drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of influences—from Matisse and Bonnard to Pop art and ’90s animation—Wood creates vibrant compositions that blend interiors, still lifes, and landscapes with a unique, unmistakable style. His plant-and-vase still lifes, inspired by his partnership with ceramic artist Shio Kusaka, are especially prized and have consistently exceeded estimates at auction. Unlike many artists known for a single style, Wood’s diverse series demonstrate his remarkable ability to evolve while maintaining a powerful and cohesive artistic voice.

Graphic design transforms mere advertisements into enduring cultural icons, as showcased in Phaidon’s updated collection A Smile in the Mind: Witty Thinking in Graphic Design. From the timeless bounce of the Michelin Man to Piero Fornasetti’s imaginative porcelain plates, and the cheeky sophistication of Esquire’s playboy symbol, these designs blend creativity and cleverness that withstand the test of time. Highlights include the haunting transformation in the United Nations’ Freedom from Hunger poster, the iconic IBM stripes inspired by nature, and FedEx’s famously hidden arrow that redefined logo brilliance. Each piece captures a unique wit that continues to engage and inspire, proving great design’s lasting impact on culture.

Discover six captivating artworks that fall into two enticing categories: irresistible steals and worthy splurges. From Marilyn Minter’s sensually obscured photograph at an exceptional bargain price to Vera Molnár’s groundbreaking computer art piece charged with historical significance, this curated selection offers something for every collector. Enjoy Richard Serra’s elegantly framed lithograph or John Baldessari’s witty and beautifully hand-painted photograph, each a testament to their creators’ extraordinary talents. Meanwhile, Tessa Perutz’s cleverly graphic “Ten Hashtags” brings a smart pop of personality to any space, and Ellen von Unwerth’s sophisticated yet subtly sexy silver gelatin print evokes the glamour and playfulness of classic Americana with a contemporary edge. Whether you’re chasing a deal or embracing a significant investment, these artworks every art lover can appreciate and admire.

Hal Foster stands as a towering figure in contemporary art history, blending rigorous academic insight with a broad cultural perspective that spans from avant-garde modernism to today's design and architecture. Known for his foundational role in defining postmodernism, Foster challenges the notion that it signifies modernism’s failure, instead viewing it as a vital continuation of modernism’s radical spirit. His influential works, including *The Anti-Aesthetic* and *The Return of the Real*, explore the evolving relationship between art, culture, and commerce, while later writings delve into the fusion of art with architecture and the shifting roles of museums and curators in a post-9/11 world. Throughout his career, Foster remains committed to critically engaging with the tensions between high and low culture, maintaining a sharp awareness of art’s place within capitalism and society’s urgent cultural challenges.

Susan and Michael Hort eagerly embrace New York’s Armory Week to discover and celebrate captivating works by emerging artists, blending their passion for collecting with philanthropy. Their selections from the Armory Show and Volta New York highlight striking pieces like Jannis Varelas’s bold and symbol-laden paintings, Claire Tabouret’s lush fabric-collage portraits exploring gender, and Annie Lapin’s serious, evocative canvases. They also champion Matthias Bitzer’s haunting beauty and William Bradley’s vibrant abstracts, alongside Dawit Abebe’s dramatic, introspective figures, all reflecting the dynamic energy and diverse voices shaping today’s art scene.

Oliver Enwonwu, director of Lagos’s Omenka Gallery and son of legendary Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu, continues his father’s legacy by championing contemporary Nigerian and African art in a rapidly evolving city. Founded in 2003 in his father’s former home, Omenka Gallery reflects Lagos’s dynamic and diverse art scene, fueled by a growing population and new wealth that are transforming art into both cultural expression and investment. Embracing a broad spectrum of styles from traditional figurative to bold abstraction, Enwonwu and his team focus on nurturing artistic growth and fostering collaboration, exemplified by their showcase of rising talents like Nengi Omuku. With a vision rooted in cross-cultural innovation, Omenka Gallery stands at the forefront of Nigeria’s vibrant artistic future.

The Armory Show dazzled this year with a vibrant international array of artists and galleries, showcasing compelling works from across the globe. Highlights included Norbert Bisky’s haunting oil-on-paper depictions of human tragedy, Tomoko Kashiki’s dreamlike, textured paintings from Japan, and Namsa Leuba’s striking Nigerian portraits blending tradition with futurism. David Reed’s intricate abstract studies caught the eye of critics, while Agnieszka Kurant’s levitating meteorite sculpture offered a witty take on urban real estate. Rising talents like Colombian Sebastian Fierro and Peruvian José Vera Matos explored psychological and historical narratives through surreal and text-based works. Camille Henrot captivated with multi-sensory installations, whereas legendary figures Thomas Bayrle and Betty Woodman presented bold intersections of industrial design and ceramics. Danish artist Kirstine Roepstorff’s poetic fabric and metal collages hinted at the subconscious, setting the stage for her Venice Biennale debut. Altogether, the fair proved a dynamic celebration of crossroads between cultures, media, and ideas.

Independent New York, known for its bold and experimental approach, shifts gears this year with a vibrant focus on paintings and “ain'tings” showcased in the bright new space at Spring Studios. Highlights include Marina Adams’ sensual gouaches inspired by Picasso and Bernini, Allison Katz’s clever anamorphic sphere, and Robert Barber’s evocative "Freeway Paintings" from the 1970s that capture the American highway system. The fair also spotlights vivid Vietnam-era suburbia in Peter Saul’s acidic palette, Donna Huanca’s body-painted performance installation, and Ann Craven’s intimate studio-inspired canvases. Monumental works by David Diao return after decades, while Borna Sammak blurs lines between painting and video art. Alexandra Bircken’s stitched zipper tapestries combine decadence and function, and political commentary emerges in Pope.L’s provocative fusion of abstraction and found objects steeped in racial imagery, offering a rich, diverse snapshot of contemporary artistic innovation.

In a cultural moment where the idea of progress feels increasingly uncertain, the art world is witnessing a renewed fascination with the past, as collectors and institutions seek authenticity beyond the flashy trends fueled by market excess. At the recent ADAA Art Show and the Met Breuer, there’s a clear shift toward celebrating older, often overlooked artists—postwar African American, women, gay, outsider, and conceptual artists—whose work has matured away from commercial pressures and offers a fresher, more virtuous artistic vision. This retrospection challenges the contemporary art scene’s sometimes superficial glamour, highlighting instead enduring masterpieces from figures like Milton Avery, Beauford Delaney, Jean Dubuffet, Hedda Sterne, Willem de Kooning, and Helen Frankenthaler. These artists remind us that true innovation and depth often come from the margins and the overlooked, inviting us to reconsider what progress means in art and inspiring collectors and audiences alike to dig deeper into history for the breakthroughs of today.

Spring/Break, the curator-driven New York art fair held at Moynihan Station, defies typical startup art fair labels by offering a vibrant, thesis-show atmosphere where artists share fresh, thought-provoking work outside mainstream pressures. Highlights include Azikiwe Mohammed’s thrift-store installation imagining a hopeful African-American community through evocative objects; the satirical and hilarious sitcom set of “Grossmalerman’s Studio” by Guy Richards Smit and Joshua White; and “Blue-Sky Thinking,” a striking exploration of office mundanity transformed into subtle acts of rebellion through photography and digital art. The “4RL” booth showcases innovative appropriations of cultural texts and consumer nostalgia, while “Glory Hole” boldly merges themes of sexuality and spirituality in immersive, provocative environments. Together, these diverse presentations capture the fair’s spirit of discovery, humor, and social commentary.

The annual Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA) Art Show is a pivotal event where both emerging and veteran artists gain renewed recognition, reflecting a growing trend to spotlight underrated 20th-century masters. This year, the fair embraces a diverse lineup, including Barry Le Va’s meticulously planned “Scatter Art” installations, Carolee Schneemann’s provocative feminist performance photographs, and McArthur Binion’s subtle, autobiographical Minimalist grids. The show also celebrates Beauford Delaney’s vibrant Abstract Expressionism, Hedda Sterne’s bold urban abstractions, and Jules Olitski’s evolution from Color Field painting to innovative, textural abstractions. These carefully curated rediscoveries invite collectors and critics alike to rethink art history and appreciate the dynamic range of artistic voices shaping contemporary discourse.

Kapwani Kiwanga, the commissioned artist for the 2016 Armory Show's “Focus: Africa” presentation, brings a rich, transglobal perspective shaped by her Tanzanian heritage, Canadian upbringing, and life in Paris. With a background in anthropology and comparative religion, her work blends rigorous research with imaginative narratives, often exploring African history and futurism through multimedia projects. Her Armory commission investigates diplomatic gifts received by 1950s U.N. Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, using this lens to delve into political relationships and temporal shifts across past, present, and prehistory. Known for innovative works like “Afrogalactica,” where she embodies an African anthropologist from the future, and “Flowers for Africa,” a floral homage to postcolonial independence, Kiwanga challenges conventional archives and highlights the ephemeral nature of memory and sovereignty. Through her multifaceted approach, she fosters a dialogue between diverse cultural languages and ways of knowing, steering away from static monuments toward living, evolving histories.

Kate Bonner’s innovative art blurs the lines between photography, sculpture, and painting to explore our fragmented relationship with images in the digital age. Using CNC routers and scanners, she manipulates photographs—folding, cutting, erasing, and repainting them—to create layered works that challenge how we perceive memory, reality, and the physicality of photos. Rooted in a deep appreciation for early photography and fueled by a playful yet intentional process, her work often incorporates colorful frames that both reveal and conceal. With upcoming exhibitions in Los Angeles and New York, Bonner continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art while reflecting on the emotional weight and evolving meaning of images in a world saturated by the camera lens.

Bernard Lumpkin and Carmine Boccuzzi are passionate collectors of contemporary African American art, driven by a deep personal connection and a commitment to fostering diversity within the art world. Their collection, rooted in Lumpkin’s family history in Los Angeles’ South Central and enriched by relationships with artists across generations, showcases emerging talents alongside established figures like Norman Lewis and Adrian Piper. Beyond acquiring art, they actively support artists through mentorship and partnerships with institutions such as the Studio Museum in Harlem, MoMA, and Yale. For them, collecting is not just about possession but about championing stories of identity, culture, and social justice, creating a vibrant dialogue that challenges perceptions and advocates for inclusivity and education in museums and beyond.

SPRING/BREAK Art Show offers a fresh alternative to the big-budget New York art fairs by showcasing curator-designed booths featuring emerging and lesser-known artists with exciting, approachable works. Since its inception in 2012 by Ambre Kelly and Andrew Gori, the fair has embraced theme-based formats like "Copy & Paste" and "Transaction," infusing its spaces with a youthful, dynamic energy. Notable highlights over the years include Russell Tyler’s mesmerizing 8-bit inspired gradients, Rachel Rossin’s immersive VR installations, and rare early Basquiat drawings paired with intimate photographs by Alexis Adler. The fair has also spotlighted bold figures like Myla Dalbesio exploring themes of femininity, Jordan Eagles’s haunting blood-based abstractions protesting blood donor bans, and the innovative multimedia group Fall On Your Sword, whose interactive works consistently captivate attendees. Celebrated for its risk-taking and fresh perspectives, SPRING/BREAK continues to be a vital platform for discovering art at the cutting edge of culture and creativity.

London-based Brazilian artist Alexandre da Cunha fuses a neoformalist European aesthetic with a distinct Latin American sensibility, transforming found everyday objects into sculptural works that blur the line between modernism and daily life. Rooted in Brazil’s rich Neo-concrete tradition, his art explores the improvisational spirit of ordinary items—like old skateboards and household utensils—imbued with personal histories and cultural narratives. Through playful decontextualization and “tropicalization” of readymades, da Cunha reveals layered stories behind seemingly mundane materials, while his more recent work critically examines national identity by reimagining leisure symbols as provocative flag-like constructs, challenging stereotypes of tropical exoticism.

David Altmejd, renowned for his monumental and intricately conceptual sculptures, takes a surprising turn with his Ringers portfolio—his first-ever series of prints. Developed over a year at Columbia University’s LeRoy Neiman Center for Print Studies, these mini-portraits begin as simple photos of staff and students, which Altmejd ingeniously flips and transforms using Photoshop, collage, hand drawings, and various printmaking techniques. The resulting works blend humor and formal elegance, exploring themes of identity and transformation with a playful yet rigorous approach. Praised for their lively spirit and thoughtful craftsmanship, these small-scale pieces offer an accessible glimpse into Altmejd’s complex artistic universe.

Contemporary art in the 21st century boldly challenges viewers by pushing ethical and aesthetic boundaries, often sparking controversy and debate. From Martin Creed’s minimalist work that transforms a simple empty lit room into a provocative experience, to Santiago Sierra’s unsettling social critiques using marginalized individuals as living canvases, these pieces force confrontations with uncomfortable realities. The Chapman Brothers’ playful yet subversive sculptures question cultural appropriation and commodification, while Yoko Ono’s public artworks revisit intimate human themes with unapologetic honesty. Wim Delvoye’s tattooed pigs blur the line between living creatures and art objects, provoking discussions about ethics, and Damien Hirst’s diamond-encrusted skull starkly reminds us of mortality amidst luxury. Hans-Peter Feldmann’s installation of carefully displayed cash underscores the uniqueness buried within mass production. Together, these works exemplify how contemporary artists use shock, wit, and conceptual rigor to explore power, society, and the meaning of art itself.

Glenn Ligon is spotlighted with two exhibitions in New York this February, showcasing his powerful engagement with identity, race, and language through art. A leading figure from the 1990s who challenged simplistic notions of blackness, Ligon’s work explores the construction of identity and the limits of communication. His iconic text-based paintings from the 1990s—featuring stenciled literary excerpts rendered increasingly illegible by thick layers of paint and coal dust—create a tension between the desire to read and the frustration of obscured meaning. Highlighted is his seminal piece Untitled (“I am an invisible man”), inspired by Ralph Ellison, which uses visual layers to reflect cultural blindness and the complexities of invisibility, making his art both intellectually provocative and visually compelling.

Marcel Broodthaers, a Belgian artist who began as a frustrated poet, transformed the art world with his quirky and deeply intellectual works that blurred the lines between language, art, and institutions. Declaring himself director of his own “Museum of Modern Art, Department of Eagles,” he used eagle imagery to question authority and challenge museum conventions with wit and melancholy romance. His retrospective at MoMA reveals a complex figure who critiqued not only the art establishment but also the legacy of colonialism and the shifting meanings of art itself—combining playful irony, poetic obscurity, and a secret nostalgic longing for a bygone Europe. Through immersive installations and assemblages, Broodthaers invites us to reconsider art, language, and history in ways both elusive and richly seductive.

Enlarging everyday objects into monumental sculptures has long been a compelling gesture in contemporary art, revealing new formal qualities and often infusing works with playful or ironic grandeur. From Adel Abdessemed’s flying, oversized skeleton blending humor with meditations on life’s fragility, to David Altmejd’s dissolving humanoid forms that blur inside and out, these grand-scale works captivate viewers with their scale and symbolism. Louise Bourgeois’s towering spider evokes maternal strength mixed with vulnerability, while Katharina Fritsch’s bright blue cockerel gestures slyly at historic male dominance in public monuments. Meanwhile, Gelitin’s colossal pink rabbit sprawled across an Italian mountaintop invites whimsy and impermanence. Brian Jungen transforms discarded consumer goods into tribal-inspired marvels, and Jeff Koons’s floral puppy melds kitsch with themes of life and decay. Claes Oldenburg’s giant hamburger playfully critiques consumer culture, while Adrián Villar Rojas’s enormous whale sculpture poignantly reflects on environmental fragility and the passage of time. Together, these striking sculptures demonstrate how magnifying the familiar can challenge perceptions, evoke emotion, and spark reflection on culture, identity, and the ephemeral nature of existence.

From dynamic text-based paintings by Despina Stokou that channel musical notation and graffiti legends to Ross Iannatti’s mesmerising brass etchings evoking prehistoric cave art, this collection showcases a thrilling range of contemporary artistry. Hermann Nitsch’s provocative prints recall the radical spirit of Viennese Actionism, while Fischli and Weiss’s groundbreaking Rube Goldberg film set remains a beloved landmark of art and animation. Heidi Hahn’s enigmatic, occult-tinged figures invite deep psychological exploration, and Zanele Muholi’s evocative portraits stand as powerful testaments to resilience and identity within South Africa’s LGBTI community. Together, these compelling works offer both visual intrigue and rich cultural narratives that will captivate savvy collectors.

Gianni Jetzer, renowned for his visionary curatorial work, explores the evolving relationship between the human body and digital technology in his exhibition "Suspended Animation" at the Hirshhorn Museum. Focusing on leading young artists like Ed Atkins, Antoine Catala, and Ian Cheng, the show delves into themes of embodiment, disembodiment, and digital representation, challenging traditional notions of physicality as these artists use animation and digital modeling to create new realities. Jetzer highlights how these works engage with contemporary media culture, from ASMR-inspired digital lips to immersive video-game-like environments, questioning the stability of the body in a world increasingly saturated by digital consciousness. Far from mere technological displays, these artworks provoke deep reflections on identity, memory, and the future of human presence in an era where the boundaries between flesh and digital form are blurring.

Ana Mendieta, a pioneering Cuban-American artist of the 1970s and ’80s, forged a powerful connection between body, earth, and femininity through her evocative Land Art and performance works. Her Mujeres de piedra (Stone Women) series, carved into limestone caves at Escaleras de Jaruco national park, honors the sacred Taíno female deities, celebrating themes of fertility, identity, and the motherland. Mendieta’s deeply personal art reflects her exile from Cuba as a child, her exploration of ritual, and her feminist vision, fusing organic forms with profound cultural and political resonance. This haunting series, set against a backdrop of Cuban history and natural beauty, continues to inspire and draw visitors, underscoring Mendieta’s lasting impact on contemporary art and cultural memory.

In 2015, Austrian architect-turned-curator Katharina Schendl and art historian Isabella Ritter embarked on a bold venture by opening LambdaLambdaLambda in Prishtina, Kosovo, transforming a shuttered bookstore into a vibrant gallery space that champions the country’s dynamic yet little-known contemporary art scene. Their passion for Kosovo’s emerging artists—who navigate a culture still shaped by recent conflict and conservative values—breathes fresh energy into the Balkans, blending local creativity with European influences and fostering cultural exchange. Showcasing daring works like Dardan Zhegrova’s intimate voodoo doll sculpture that invites viewers to engage with love poems amid Kosovo’s societal challenges, the gallery is amplifying voices previously absent from the global art dialogue. As Kosovo gains recognition, evidenced by recent Oscar nods and international shows, LambdaLambdaLambda plays a pivotal role in opening doors for its artists onto the world stage.

After graduating from New York University’s art program and facing the daunting costs of the city's art scene, artists Sydney Smith, Dennis Witkin, and Emma Hazen teamed up with Robert Grand to launch Kimberly-Klark, a gallery in Queens offering a rare affordable space for artistic experimentation. Named with a nod to industrial and fictitious dealer names, the gallery champions emerging artists by reducing commercial pressures and fostering creative freedom. At the 2016 Material Art Fair in Mexico City, Kimberly-Klark showcased compelling works including Libby Rothfeld’s cast-concrete tub lids adorned with pop culture and Jewish mysticism, and Quintessa Matranga’s provocative patches. The gallery’s presence at the fair marked both their debut in Mexico City and a growing buzz among art enthusiasts eager to embrace fresh and fearless voices.

Six years ago, Colombian artists Mariana Murcia and Santiago Pinyol launched Laagencia, an alternative space in Bogotá focused on community-driven art and residencies, yet without profit. To sustain their practice, they teamed up with fellow artists Adriana Martínez and Juan Sebastián Peláez of Miami to create Carne, a gallery dedicated to selling their own work. Carne operates as a self-representative project where each founder directs pop-up shows and fairs, inviting a guest artist whose themes resonate with their own explorations of humor, imagery, and economic systems. Since its successful 2014 debut, Carne has exhibited at key fairs like Art BA and aims to expand internationally, even opening a permanent space. Their inventive offerings at Mexico City’s 2016 Material Art Fair included riot shields branded like NASCAR uniforms and a price-fluctuating floor piece tied to real estate values—clever works that blend critical commentary with community-driven enterprise.

Alexandra Warder and Lana Bountakidou, long-time friends and former art advisory colleagues in London, turned their shared dream of running a gallery into reality with Bosse & Baum, carving out a unique space in a former African church in Peckham. Since opening in 2014, their gallery has showcased immersive, large-scale solo exhibitions by predominantly female artists like Candida Powell-Williams and Robin von Einsiedel, blending performance, sculpture, and collaboration. Committed to engaging the local African community, they curate educational events and artist talks that delve into the concepts behind the artwork. At the 2016 Material Art Fair in Mexico City, they highlighted the vibrant, mixed-media works of Brazilian artist Cibelle Cavalli Bastos, reflecting the gallery’s deep connection to diverse cultural influences and distinctive programming.

Pablo Leon de la Barra, the Guggenheim’s UBS MAP Global Art Initiative Curator for Latin America, highlights a vibrant selection from this year’s Material Art Fair in Mexico City, featuring visionary works that blend history, culture, and innovative techniques. Colombian-Korean artist Gala Porras-Kim’s sculptures draw on ancient Peruvian ritual objects, inviting future reinterpretations, while Istanbul-based Emre Hüner uses local volcanic materials to explore utopia and architecture through evocative forms. French-Mexican Yann Gerstberger reinvents traditional tapestries with a unique fiber-gluing method inspired by Modernist and Mexican patterns. Brazilian artist Cibelle Cavalli Bastos merges painting and sculpture by creating "spaintings" on timber, revealing raw emotional states. Meanwhile, Bogota cult figure José Aramburo fuses pop culture and futuristic landscapes in compelling collages that challenge artistic identity. Together, these artists offer a dynamic glimpse into the evolving landscape of contemporary Latin American and global art.

Mexico City, crowned the top travel destination for 2016, is not only a cultural hub with its vibrant art fairs Zona Maco and Material but also a paradise for food lovers. The city’s dining scene offers everything from the iconic seafood of Contramar, famous for its tuna tostadas and micheladas, to the hidden sophistication of Jules Basement, a speakeasy with inventive mezcal cocktails and a sleek black-and-white design. La Capital blends modern style with traditional cantina fare, while Licorería Limantour, an art deco gem in Roma, serves award-winning cocktails alongside a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, Limosneros redefines Mexican cuisine with creative dishes and a beautifully restored colonial setting steeped in authentic local artistry, making Mexico City a must-visit for both art and epicurean adventures.

Dorothée Dupuis, an influential art writer and curator based in Mexico City, highlights a vibrant array of contemporary artists featured at the Material Art Fair. From Adriana Martínez’s insightful explorations of cultural contradictions to Ariana Papademetropoulos’s empowering portrayals of women, the fair showcases bold, thought-provoking work. Tania Perez Cordova redefines Mexican sculpture with a unique voice, while Eduardo Sarabia blends art history and pop culture in captivating installations. Emre Hüner’s rare sculptures mirror his complex mind, and Ann Hirsch celebrates collaborative femininity through painting. Nico Colón’s military-material-based works confront the Americas’ violent realities, and Erika Ceruzzi’s fetishistic metal sculptures evoke relational aesthetics with a cool intensity. Emerging Mexican talents like Hernáin Bravo capture urban nuances, and Polly Apfelbaum champions the handmade craft movement as a powerful counterpoint to minimalism. Together, these artists embody the dynamic, diverse pulse of contemporary Latin American art today.

Collectors and philanthropists Susan and Michael Hort share their latest discoveries from Art Los Angeles Contemporary, Paramount Ranch, and local galleries, highlighting bold statements and rising young talent. Their picks include Gina Beavers’ enigmatic paintings of hands, Lauren Luloff’s innovative bleach-painted fabric artworks, and Despina Stokou’s intriguing explorations of text and language. Stefania Batoeva’s subtle use of color, Kathleen Ryan’s sensual concrete sculptures, and Jannis Varelas’s Matisse-inspired cowboy paintings at Paramount Ranch also captivate with their unique expressions. From Los Angeles studios, Charles Mayton’s fusion of art history and consumer culture, Brian Belott’s impressive collages, Claire Anna Baker’s warm bursts of color, to Alex Kroll’s textured glass pieces, the Horts present a vibrant snapshot of contemporary art to watch.

The Sundance Film Festival continues its rich tradition of spotlighting compelling documentaries and features about artists and their work, showcasing a diverse array of stories this year. Highlights include *Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures*, a thoughtful exploration of the late photographer’s life and legacy through intimate interviews and striking visuals; *Plaza de Soledad*, a powerful film by Maya Goded that brings to life the stories of elderly sex workers in Mexico City with empathy and depth; Werner Herzog’s *Lo and Behold, Reveries of the Connected World*, a sweeping meditation on the Internet’s origins, impact, and future; *Sky Ladder: The Art of Cai Guo-Qiang*, which captures the breathtaking ambition behind the Chinese artist’s pyrotechnic masterpiece amid political tensions; and *Cemetery of Splendor*, Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s hypnotic, dialogue-driven narrative blending myth and reality around a mysterious illness in Thailand. Each film offers a unique window into creativity, persistence, and the human spirit.

Simon Denny’s "Products for Organising" at the Serpentine Sackler Gallery is a thought-provoking dive into the post-Snowden communications landscape, blending art, technology, and surveillance in a sharply analytical museum-like experience. The exhibition contrasts the rigid hierarchies of big corporations with the fluid, underground ethos of hackers, exploring how entities like Apple, Zappos, and the secretive GCHQ merge these worlds under the guise of innovation and control. Through a mix of quirky tech accessories, imagined manuals, and visual data, Denny invites visitors into a playful yet unsettling realm where the boundaries between truth and fiction, freedom and surveillance, constantly shift—making each visitor question the hidden mechanics behind the tools and organizations that shape our digital lives.

Photography has transformed dramatically over the past two centuries, evolving from a scientific curiosity to a pervasive and powerful art form. This article highlights eight compelling works from the past 15 years that showcase the diversity and depth of fine art photography today. From Thomas Struth’s reflective museum scenes capturing cultural engagement, to Wolfgang Tillmans’ abstract explorations of light, and Catherine Opie’s intimate portraits documenting marginalized communities, each artist offers a unique vision. Luisa Lambri invites viewers into intimate architectural spaces, while Louise Lawler challenges how art is perceived through context. Thomas Ruff provocatively plays with digital representation, Hiroshi Sugimoto captures the ephemeral nature of time and electricity, and Dayanita Singh poetically preserves fading archives of India’s bureaucratic past. Together, these works reveal photography’s ongoing evolution as it bridges history, technology, and personal narrative to reveal new ways of seeing the world.

Julio César Morales, founder and co-curator of Queens Nails and curator at Arizona State University Art Museum, shares his vibrant picks from the Material Art Fair, highlighting standout works that blend sculpture, architecture, and social narratives. From Kate Bonner’s innovative manipulation of materials to Juan Sebastián Peláez’s energetic sculptures charged with dark humor, Morales reveals the illuminating spirit of artist-run spaces like Bogota’s Carne. He praises Gala Porras-Kim’s delicate, haunting sculptures and Eduardo Sarabia’s poetic fusion of Mexican craft with contemporary social themes. Morales also discovers a nostalgic gem in Masaru Aikawa’s hand-painted CD covers, which evoke the powerful role of music in shaping identity amid shifting formats.

Mexico City-based artist Pia Camil explores the interplay between commerce, art, and social interaction through her participatory installation "A Pot for a Latch" at the New Museum, inspired by traditional exchange systems and the bustling markets of her hometown. Building on her previous work at Frieze New York, where she distributed colorful wearable art freely, Camil delves deeper into the transactional nature of art by inviting visitors to exchange personal items, challenging conventional art market dynamics. Her work engages with themes of urban life, economic systems, and the evolving role of social media in art, while reflecting on her city’s chaotic yet inspiring spirit and the evolving Mexico City art scene amid the rise of commercial fairs.

Installation art has blossomed in the 21st century, pushing the boundaries of how artists engage audiences through immersive, interactive experiences. From Monika Sosnowska’s disorienting labyrinth of identical rooms evoking institutional claustrophobia, to Song Dong’s poignant memorial of his mother’s lifelong thrift, these works transform spaces and objects into profound narratives. Micol Assaël charges a room with electrostatic energy to explore the unseen forces affecting the human psyche, while Roger Hiorns crystallizes an entire flat in dazzling blue minerals, blending beauty with unease. Miroslaw Balka’s massive, dark steel container evokes haunting memories of history and loss, contrasting with Phyllida Barlow’s towering, rough-hewn scaffold sculpture reflecting urban life’s transience. Finally, Yinka Shonibare reimagines da Vinci’s Last Supper with Afro-Victorian flair, infusing post-colonial commentary with playful irreverence. Together, these installations illuminate contemporary art’s power to challenge perceptions and evoke deep emotional responses.

Outsider art captivates with stories of artists driven by deep personal passion rather than formal training or commercial success. From the secretive, systematic creations of physics professor Jean-Daniel Allanche to the spiritual medium Agatha Wojciechowsky channeling otherworldly forces onto paper, these artists defy conventional paths. Young prodigy Henry Hess expresses his theatrical imagination quietly through delicate, handmade character figures, while Robert Adele Davis combines healing practices with automatic, intricate string art born from intuitive gestures. Meanwhile, Alyson Vega transforms adversity into vibrant, textured soft sculptures, exploring memory and identity after a life-altering stroke. Together, their works illuminate the raw, unfiltered essence of creativity outside the mainstream art world.

Rudolf Stingel’s groundbreaking work challenges traditional painting by inviting viewer interaction and redefining artistic boundaries. From his early DIY painting guides to his immersive installations, Stingel blends conceptual rigor with sensual experience, often using industrial materials like enamel and acid to strip painting of ego and sentimentality. His most radical piece, Untitled, features gallery walls lined with foil-coated insulation that visitors are encouraged to scratch, write on, and transform—turning the space into a dynamic, collective canvas reminiscent of cave paintings or makeshift altars. Presented at the Venice Biennale and major museums, this evolving installation captures a communal spirit through spontaneous markings and messages, revealing a sacred quality within everyday materials and transforming the act of viewing into an act of creation.

New York artist Lucky DeBellevue is renowned for his inventive use of humble materials—from pipe cleaners to pistachio shells—transforming everyday objects into compelling works of art. His latest shift from labor-intensive sculptures to semi-geometric patterned prints and sculptures marks an organic evolution in his practice, emphasizing playfulness and exploration. Beyond his own art, DeBellevue curates large-scale exhibitions like "Redeux (Sort of)" at Kai Matsumiya Gallery, fostering creative communities. Reflecting on art history, the market, and contemporary challenges, he embraces a hands-on, material-driven approach that elevates the ordinary without hierarchy, drawing inspiration from past cultural moments like Weimar Germany. Currently, he’s experimenting with installations incorporating found objects and unconventional supports, continuing his adventurous dialogue between material, form, and meaning.

Phillip March Jones’s journey into outsider art began as a teenager inspired by visionary artist Howard Finster, sparking a lifelong dedication to championing self-taught Southern artists and the broader outsider art community. As director of Andrew Edlin Gallery and former leader of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, Jones has navigated the complex world of artists who often create outside mainstream attention, broadcasting the profound cultural and aesthetic significance of their work—from Thornton Dial’s monumental paintings to the subtle roadside installations of Dinah Young. He reflects on the nuanced differences within outsider art, the challenges of presenting deeply personal, sometimes site-specific works in major museums, and the responsibility of dealers in advocating for artists who may not seek fame. With growing institutional recognition, accelerated by landmark exhibitions and auction sales, outsider art is experiencing an unprecedented renaissance—inviting collectors and curators alike to rethink artistic value and cultural history through the vital, often overlooked voices from the margins.

From January 21 to 24, Singapore’s Suntec Convention Centre will debut Singapore Contemporary, the city-state’s first major art fair of 2016, spotlighting its growing stature in the contemporary art scene alongside its rich multicultural heritage. While in the Lion City, indulge in five standout fine-dining experiences, from the artistic French-Mediterranean creations at Restaurant André in Chinatown to Pollen’s lush, herb-filled oasis nestled in Gardens by the Bay. Savor sweeping skyline views and vibrant nightlife at Cé La Vi atop Marina Bay Sands, enjoy the dizzying angled vistas with local celebrities at New Asia bar, or immerse yourself in innovative contemporary Chinese fare amidst rainforest-inspired décor at Forest on Sentosa Island. These culinary destinations perfectly complement Singapore’s evolving art and cultural landscape.

From provocative sculptures rooted in Soviet-era history to vibrant, snack-inspired paintings and evocative explorations of underground nightlife, these handpicked works showcase a dynamic range of contemporary art poised to captivate collectors. Highlights include Katarina Burin’s intricately detailed ink drawing that channels avant-garde typographic history, Katherine Bernhardt’s playful and colorful silkscreens that have taken the art world by storm, and Prem Sahib’s daring laser prints reflecting London’s edgy queer scene. Meanwhile, Andrew Laumann’s abstract spray-paint works signal Baltimore’s rising art scene, Nicole Wermers’ sleek, stainless steel sculptures reimagine everyday office objects as elegant artworks, and the collaborative piece by Paulina Olowska and Bonnie Camplin weaves feminist storytelling into surreal, oceanic imagery. Together, these selections underline an exciting moment where history, culture, and bold creativity intersect for discerning collectors.

Sarah Meyohas, a Yale-trained artist with a background in finance, boldly merges the worlds of art and investment in her groundbreaking projects. Her recent show, “Stock Performances,” transforms the stock market into a live canvas, where she trades smaller stocks not for profit but to create gestural drawings that visually represent market fluctuations. Meyohas’s work probes the intersection of finance and aesthetics, making the intangible movements of the market tangible and physical through her oils and unique artist books painted with gold nanoparticles. Embracing the contradictions of her dual identity as artist and economic agent, she challenges traditional perceptions of art’s relationship to capitalism—eschewing critique for active participation, inviting viewers to reconsider value, representation, and creativity within both art and finance. Her intimate apartment gallery further blurs boundaries, fostering a space where uncommercial, experimental art thrives within a personal, community-focused setting.

Video art has evolved over nearly fifty years as a dynamic space for artists to explore new aesthetic experiences, reflecting the expansion of media culture throughout the 20th century. From Rebecca Horn’s surreal, body-extending performances that transform personal vulnerability into spatial rituals, to the hypnotic and psychological explorations of twin artists Jane and Louise Wilson, video art challenges perception and consciousness. Paul McCarthy’s grotesque satire blends humor with raw bodily imagery, while Bruce Nauman’s repetitive hand-washing loops evoke psychological and physical reflexivity. Kan Xuan’s intimate portrayal of a spider’s journey across human bodies metaphorically captures modern loneliness, and Douglas Gordon’s wrestling selves confront internal psychological conflict with haunting impact. Pipilotti Rist’s immersive, kaleidoscopic work invites viewers into a meditative experience linking body and nature, using multisensory engagement to evoke calm and connection. These works, featured in Phaidon's *Body of Art*, showcase the rich diversity and power of video art to probe the human condition.

As we approach 2016, it’s fascinating to reflect on the evolution of painting over the past 15 years through twelve masterpieces that capture the spirit of the twenty-first century. From Peter Doig’s haunting canoe scenes evoking ghostly journeys, to Luc Tuymans’s muted portraits that grapple with historical memory, and Julie Mehretu’s vibrant, layered abstractions mapping cultural identity, these works embody the diverse voices shaping contemporary art. The collection also showcases Ibrahim El-Salahi’s fusion of Islamic, African, and Western aesthetics, Maria Lassnig’s poignant explorations of the aging body, and George Condo’s grotesque yet captivating social allegories. Each artist, whether through hyper-realistic detail, as in Ellen Altfest’s intimate studies of the human form, or Tomma Abts’s geometric abstractions, invites viewers into a world where tradition meets innovation, provoking thought about identity, history, and the very nature of painting itself.

Blurring the lines between the peculiar and the hilarious, this exhibition curated by Samantha Best celebrates the fusion of comedy and contemporary art through a vibrant collection of works that challenge viewers to decide whether they are “funny strange” or simply “funny ha ha.” From Marcel Dzama’s mischievous bears and John Baldessari’s abstracted facial expressions to Cindy Sherman’s iconic clown-inspired disguises and Harmony Korine’s unsettling rabbit-eared creatures, the show explores humor beyond words through provocative objects and visual narratives. With contributions from artists like Laurie Simmons, Dave Eggers, and John Waters, the pieces invite audiences to embrace the weird, the witty, and the wonderfully uncanny in a playful yet thought-provoking dialogue about art’s capacity to amuse and unnerve.

Marcel Duchamp’s revolutionary concept of transforming everyday objects into art paved the way for generations of artists who challenge traditional notions of creativity and value. From Duchamp’s iconic "Fountain," a simple urinal presented as high art, to Salvador Dalí’s surreal "Lobster Telephone" that blends absurdity with sensual symbolism, these works invite viewers to reconsider the ordinary. Joseph Cornell’s nostalgic box assemblages, Robert Rauschenberg’s fusion of painting and found textiles, and Atsuko Tanaka’s electrifying wearable sculpture highlight the rich diversity and innovation within found-object art. Contemporary pieces like Tony Cragg’s poetic urban landscapes, Sarah Lucas’s provocative body-inspired food sculptures, Doris Salcedo’s poignant chair installations embodying social and political trauma, and Subodh Gupta’s striking domestic-metal mushroom cloud all continue this legacy, blending humor, critique, and beauty to reflect within and beyond their cultural contexts. Together, these works weave a compelling narrative about art’s power to transform, question, and reveal hidden meanings in the commonplace.

In 2015, the art world embraced a profound sense of atemporality, blurring the lines between past and present in ways that challenged traditional chronological narratives. From MoMA’s controversial “The Forever Now” exhibition to Jeff Koons’s time-bending “Gazing Ball Paintings,” artists and galleries reimagined history with playful skepticism and meta-commentary. Major shows and fairs revisited overlooked figures and movements, while museums like the Guggenheim and the Whitney disrupted linear storytelling through innovative presentations that intertwined early and contemporary works. As the Met prepares to launch the Met Breuer with a focus on merging historical context and contemporary art, the ongoing dialogue about time, presence, and art history continues to unfold, reflecting a dynamic, open-ended view of cultural creation that defined the art scene of 2015.

Phaidon’s new book *Do It Yourself* showcases easy and creative projects from top contemporary artists, including an engaging tutorial by American artist Sarah Sze on crafting faux rocks inspired by her 2013 Venice Biennale installation *Triple Point*. Sze’s “Paper Rock” challenges perceptions of authenticity by transforming simple crumpled paper printed with a rock texture into a deceptively realistic sculpture that begs viewers to question what is natural versus artificial. With just a camera, printer, and paper, you can create your own lightweight, fragile “rock” that pays tribute to the complexity and perfection of nature—highlighting how modern technology can simulate but not truly replicate the organic world.

Throughout the tumultuous 20th century, artists radically reimagined the human figure to capture the era’s profound struggles and transformations. From Ernst Ludwig Kirchner’s distorted and tense Expressionist self-portrait reflecting pre-war anxiety, to George Grosz’s biting satirical visions of post-war chaos, the human body became a raw canvas of psychological and social upheaval. Frida Kahlo’s visceral self-portraits reveal enduring personal pain, while Wifredo Lam blends Afro-Cuban spirituality with modernist forms to challenge stereotypical representations. Dorothea Tanning’s surreal doorways invite us into symbolic realms marked by vulnerability and loss of innocence. Meanwhile, Lucian Freud’s stark, unflinching nudes expose the flawed reality of flesh, and Cecily Brown’s fragmented, chaotic compositions fuse sensuality with horror, confronting and reinterpreting art’s nude traditions. These seven paintings encapsulate a century of intense artistic exploration where the fragile human body embodies both suffering and resilience.

The Dia Art Foundation’s exhibition “Robert Ryman: Real Light, 1958–2007” invites viewers to reconsider the famed white-on-white painter as part of the “Light and Space” movement, emphasizing how light activates his nuanced monochromes. Illuminated solely by natural daylight, Ryman’s works reveal their textures, materials, and subtle color shifts in ever-changing conditions, blending thick oils on linen with works on Plexiglas, aluminum, and fiberglass. This show highlights Ryman’s meticulous attention to materials—oil, gesso, enamel, graphite, and more—alongside his embrace of industrial fittings and installation tools, underscoring a tactile joy that grounds his ethereal surfaces. Far from mere white paintings, his “achromatic surfaces” transmit light without breaking it into visible color, making each viewing a unique encounter where the realness of the work and its surroundings merge in a dynamic play of light, space, and materiality.

Phaidon’s new book *Do It Yourself* invites readers to unleash their creativity with simple, engaging projects from contemporary artists and designers. In this excerpt, Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan and collaborator Paola Manfrin share a playful guide to creating your own magazine by repurposing pages from existing publications. By selecting, tearing out, and rearranging favorite magazine pages, you can craft a personalized, second-generation publication called *Permanent Food* that reflects your unique vision. The process involves basic materials like magazines, glue, gauze, and cardstock, turning a casual skimming session into a collaborative artistic act that can be shared, enjoyed, and passed on to inspire new creations. This DIY project blurs the lines between art, publishing, and social interaction, encouraging endless reinvention and creative expression.

Phaidon’s new book *Do It Yourself* showcases fun and accessible projects from leading contemporary artists, including a whimsical tutorial by John Baldessari on carving a conceptual soap bar. With humor and a touch of irony, Baldessari invites us to rethink everyday objects and consumer culture by simply cutting a hole in a bar of soap—transforming it from a mundane item destined to dwindle into leftover soap to an amusing art piece. This playful project reflects Baldessari’s legacy as a pioneering conceptual artist known for breaking boundaries and challenging the seriousness of the art world, offering a lighthearted yet thought-provoking creative experience.

The recent awarding of the Turner Prize to the London-based architecture collective Assemble sparked debate over whether architecture qualifies as art, prompting a look at notable artist-architects throughout history. From Theaster Gates’s socially engaged transformations of Chicago’s South Side to Frank Gehry’s sculptural, museum-defining structures and Steven Holl’s poetic, light-infused buildings, the boundary between art and architecture is beautifully blurred. Pioneers like Robert Irwin’s interplay with light and space, Frederick Kiesler’s avant-garde visions, Maya Lin’s iconic memorial designs, and historic figures like Michelangelo and Vladimir Tatlin further illustrate this fusion. Contemporary voices, including Ai Weiwei’s provocative installations rooted in architectural practice, continue to challenge and expand the dialogue, proving that art and architecture have long been intertwined creative forces shaping both spaces and societies.

When Australian skateboarder Oliver Percovich arrived in Kabul in 2007, he didn't plan to change the world—just pursue his science career. But skating with local kids, especially girls eager to join in a male-dominated culture, opened his eyes to skateboarding's power to build trust, confidence, and community among Afghanistan’s youth. What began as informal sessions grew into Skateistan, an NGO that combines skateparks with education and creative arts to empower at-risk children across Afghanistan, Cambodia, and now South Africa. Through innovative programs and partnerships with art-world figures like Charles-Antoine Bodson and artists including Paul McCarthy, Skateistan harnesses skateboarding and art to break down social barriers and inspire the next generation to rebuild their countries from the ground up.

Artists’ magazines emerged as vibrant platforms in the 1960s, challenging traditional art forms and gallery limitations by embracing experimentation, immediacy, and multimedia formats. Iconic publications like Aspen broke new ground with immersive issues combining music, film, and visual art, while Art-Language fostered critical discourse around Conceptual Art through provocative texts. Avalanche elevated artists’ voices by prioritizing interviews and documentation over criticism, spotlighting groundbreaking Earth and performance art. High Performance championed the then-undervalued Performance Art movement, particularly on the West Coast, while Tellus innovated by distributing experimental sound art via cassette tapes. Still ongoing, Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine blended alternative film culture with commercial success, highlighting the enduring power and diversity of artists’ magazines as experimental and influential cultural vessels.

Alexander S. C. Rower, president of the Calder Foundation and grandson of the celebrated artist, shares his insightful picks from Art Basel Miami, highlighting diverse works that span from Marcel Duchamp’s iconic early 20th-century drawings to the bold outsider art of Eugene Von Bruenchenhein. Rower admires the fresh architectural optimism of Russian VkhUTEMAS student prints, the sculptural word paintings of Ricci Albenda, and grapples with Philip Guston’s unsettling yet captivating imagery. Each piece reflects a unique narrative and creative vitality, offering a vivid snapshot of both historical significance and contemporary innovation in the art world.

The Fontainebleau Hotel, a landmark of Miami Modernism designed by Morris Lapidus, is not only an architectural icon but also a vibrant showcase of world-class contemporary art. Curated by Jackie Soffer, the hotel’s collection features museum-quality works from renowned artists like Ai Weiwei, James Turrell, Tracey Emin, and John Baldessari. Highlights include Ai Weiwei’s monumental chandeliers that reimagine classic designs with stunning scale and detail, alongside James Turrell’s innovative “Tall Glass” light installations, which transform the hotel lobby into a meditative space of shifting color and light. By carefully selecting durable, visually impactful pieces that elevate the guest experience, the Fontainebleau transcends typical “hotel art,” presenting a dynamic fusion of history, art, and cutting-edge creativity within one of America’s most iconic hotels.

Pulse Miami offers a refreshing contrast to the high-gloss extravagance of larger fairs like Art Basel, spotlighting emerging galleries and overlooked artists with striking and thought-provoking work. Highlights include Barton Lidicé Beneš’s conceptual relics blending social commentary and personal history; Cristina Cordova’s powerful, large-scale clay sculptures exploring vulnerability and strength; Ramiro Gomez’s incisive paintings that foreground often invisible laborers within the fabric of affluent domestic scenes; and the innovative collaboration between Markus Linnenbrink and architect Nick Gelpi, who transform resin and 3D printing into functional art. Meanwhile, Marion Wilson’s mesmerizing moss-themed digital prints invite viewers to reimagine nature’s smallest wonders as surreal, otherworldly landscapes, demonstrating Pulse Miami’s unique capacity to surprise and inspire with art that challenges and delights.

Michele Robecchi, editor of Phaidon's Contemporary Artists Series and former managing editor of Flash Art, offers a compelling glimpse into the cutting-edge works showcased at NADA Miami Beach. From Adrián S. Bará's captivating video art that challenges temporal perception, to Rafal Bujnowski’s quietly revolutionary paintings, the selections highlight artists who push boundaries while honoring tradition. Tom Friedman’s works evoke deep contemplation like Zen aphorisms, while Theaster Gates’ powerful pieces respond thoughtfully to historical narratives. The futuristic yet nostalgic creations of Henry Gunderson, JPW3’s fresh take on the American flag, and Cole Sayer’s clever nods to the readymade enrich the fair’s diverse landscape. Sculpture comes alive in Erika Vogt’s delicate spatial explorations, Michael Wang intriguingly captures personal histories, and Rose Wylie’s vibrant, uninhibited paintings bring an elemental honesty to contemporary art. Through these picks, Robecchi reveals a vibrant snapshot of today’s dynamic art scene.

NADA Miami Beach this year showcased a fascinating surge of textile-based art that blurs the lines between craft and fine art, transforming everyday materials into compelling creative statements. From Brendan Fowler’s eco-conscious embroidered textile collages and Amy Yao’s delicate silk flower curtains to Josh Faught’s hand-woven tapestries exploring marginalized emotions, artists are reimagining fabrics in innovative ways. The fair also featured boundary-pushing wearable art like Jaanus Samma’s politically charged sweaters and Cary Leibowitz’s humorous architect-themed socks, alongside Amanda Ross-Ho’s monumental paint-stained garments. Rug art took center stage with Anna Betbeze’s boldly burnt and painted shaggy canvases and Samara Scott’s massive carpet painting, while other artists like William J. O’Brien and Johanna Unzueta experimented with felt in geometric wall works and soft sculptures. Together, these plush, tactile pieces invite viewers to reconsider the artistic potential of fibers in forms both intimate and monumental.

Increasingly, art dealers are discovering remarkable talent not from traditional MFA programs but from overlooked corners of art history, often guided by artists themselves. This shift has brought to light a new category of emerging artists—those often over 60—who have honed unique styles away from the mainstream spotlight, allowing their work to mature quietly. Among these artists are Mason Williams, who melded a prolific career in entertainment with printmaking; Alice Mackler, who began creating intensely emotional sculptures and collages in her 60s and now dazzles the market at 84; Silvianna Goldsmith, a once-radical feminist filmmaker rediscovered through ink paintings made late in life; Katherine Bradford, whose subtle, enigmatic paintings of divers and ships have ignited enthusiasm among collectors; and Dona Nelson, a painter known for innovative two-sided canvases that engage viewers physically and conceptually. Together, they exemplify how perseverance and authenticity can command new recognition and invigorate the contemporary art scene with deeply resonant work.

Art Basel Miami dazzles with a spectrum of striking works, from Joan Miró’s playful bronze sculptures that reimagine found objects with a Surrealist twist, to the provocative GCC collective’s futuristic satire on Gulf region politics through sleek digital app concepts. Highlights include Jean Paul Riopelle’s richly textured abstractions, Sigmar Polke’s ironic explorations of mass persuasion, and Andrei Koschmieder’s paper-crafted marijuana displays that tease and subvert reality. David Smith’s vibrant painted sculptures and spray-paint canvases reveal unexpected facets of the Modernist master, while Matt Hoyt’s meticulously crafted epoxies offer a meditative respite amid the fair’s visual feast. Nicholas Magnan’s sun-powered video installation poetically links ancient and scientific cycles of power, and Nicolas Party’s colorful portraiture brings playful charm, punctuated by his imaginative use of Miami’s lack of rocks. The showstopper, Jimmie Durham’s monumental volcanic rock crushing a Dodge Spirit, fuses Native American heritage with raw elemental force, underscoring the fair’s blend of conceptual rigor and visceral impact. Together, these works showcase the dynamic pulse of contemporary art’s boldest voices.

Chicago couple Robert and Nancy Mollers are passionate longtime collectors who have embraced NADA art fairs as a lively, approachable alternative to the high-priced mega-fairs. With a vast, eclectic collection amassed on a modest budget, they appreciate NADA’s emphasis on young, emerging artists and friendly dealers, where access and excitement often trump exclusivity. Their home, filled floor to ceiling with discoveries from NADA and beyond, reflects decades of deep engagement with contemporary art—from Chicago Imagists to Funk Art and beyond. For the Mollers, collecting is a dynamic, ongoing journey rooted in living with art, supporting living artists, and fostering connections with both art students and dealers. They encourage new collectors to dive in without intimidation, emphasizing that art appreciation evolves over time and that NADA’s inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal starting point for anyone eager to explore contemporary art.

The Untitled art fair on South Beach showcases a vibrant mix of international galleries and emerging talents, offering a captivating blend of quirky and thought-provoking works. Highlights include Hassan Hajjaj’s playful portraits infused with hip-hop flair, Alejandro Diaz’s humorous and political art riffs, and Nina Chanel Abney’s powerful explorations of race relations. Meticulous painter Anoka Faruqee mesmerizes with hypnotic concentric circles, while John Wesley’s surreal seascapes twist Americana with eerie twists. Digital innovator Austin Lee pushes boundaries with interactive, animated paintings, and Alain Séchas charms with existential cat figures. Adriana Minoliti bridges realism and abstraction with politically charged, dreamlike scenes, and Yara Pina evokes performative traces of self-engagement. Even a small piece by late photorealist Howard Kanovitz offers a subtle nod to artistic tradition amid the fair’s dynamic contemporary pulse.

Artspace and NADA collaborate once again to present limited editions from two rising stars of contemporary painting, Katherine Bernhardt and Michael Bauer, both known for their unique takes on the intersection of figuration and abstraction. Bernhardt’s signature style features playful, graffiti-inspired “pattern paintings” that spotlight everyday objects like fast food and coffee, celebrating vibrant colors and shapes without over-intellectualizing her work. Meanwhile, Bauer’s dynamic canvases weave together modernist influences with spontaneous “telephone drawings,” creating layered compositions that blend Cubist, Pop, and Surrealist elements. This exciting release offers a compelling glimpse into the inventive processes and distinct visual languages driving today’s artistic vanguard.

Since its bold inception in 2002, the New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) has transformed from a scrappy collective of young dealers gathering in a Chelsea pub into an influential global force reshaping the contemporary art fair landscape. Launching its flagship Miami fair just as Art Basel Miami Beach was emerging, NADA carved out a distinct identity by championing fresh, authentic talent and fostering a vibrant, party-fueled community spirit. Over the years, it expanded internationally with offshoots in New York and Cologne, survived the Great Recession with innovative strategies, and maintained its commitment to the small, the experimental, and the unexpected—even as Miami’s art scene swelled with luxury brands and celebrity spectacle. Today, housed in the glamorous Fontainebleau Hotel and representing galleries from around the world, NADA stands proudly as the most successful alternative art fair, a testament to its maverick roots and relentless dedication to emerging art.

Mark Beasley, a multifaceted artist, writer, and curator known for his dynamic collaborations and wide-ranging projects, shares his picks from this year’s NADA Miami Beach art fair. From John Hiltunen’s striking collages that blend surreal imagery with vibrant landscapes, to Aramis Gutierrez’s energetically moving paintings that evoke a punk attitude, Beasley highlights pieces that challenge and engage. He also explores the Rob Tufnell gallery’s mind-bending print series featuring iconic contemporary artists, reflects on the evocative sculptures of Jerry the Marble Faun, and admires Puppies Puppies’ approachable, artist-made furniture that blurs the line between art and everyday life. This selection reflects Beasley’s discerning eye for contemporary art that is as thought-provoking as it is accessible.

From Estonia’s hottest young artist knitting provocative sweaters to an 81-year-old British painter suddenly thrust into the spotlight, the upcoming art fair showcases a dazzling array of talent. Jaanus Samma’s bold, graffiti-emblazoned knitwear and collages of Soviet pools push boundaries, while Heidi Hahn’s dreamy, self-aware canvases offer a fresh take on classical figuration. Zach Harris captivates with visionary mixed-media paintings that feel both surreal and psychedelic, and Rose Wylie’s charmingly simple, award-winning works prove age is no barrier to fame. From Aleksandra Domanović’s post-Internet critiques of gender and politics to Larissa Bates’s vibrant, symbolic reflections on colonial legacy, the show is a rich tapestry of global voices. Meanwhile, Cary Leibowitz’s cheeky, text-based paintings provide comic relief, Naotaka Hiro’s biomorphic drawings exude fresh intensity, and Yevgeniya Baras’s abstract oils evoke a quiet spirituality. Tying it all together, Magdalena Suarez Frimkess’s whimsical ceramics fuse pop culture with heartfelt expression, ensuring this fair offers something irresistibly compelling for every art lover.

Miami’s annual art week is a whirlwind of creativity and celebration, but amidst the frenzy, five standout dining spots offer a delicious respite. From the hidden gem Drunken Dragon, blending Korean BBQ with English pub vibes, to Mignonette’s chic oyster bar in a vintage gas station, each venue impresses with unique flavors and atmospheres. Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Seagrape delights with seafood and fresh farm veggies in a retro pastel setting, while MC Kitchen in the Design District serves refined Italian fare with a stylish minimalist touch. For an elegant night out, Cypress Tavern channels a 1920s hunting lodge vibe paired with locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails, making Miami’s food scene as vibrant as its art.

Casey Jane Ellison masterfully straddles the line between comedy and performance art, creating hilarious yet incisive videos that tackle the absurdities and violence of sexism within the art world. Her acclaimed web series *Touching the Art* featured engaging talk-show style conversations with female artists and positioned her as a standout voice in the New Museum Triennial. Now, in collaboration with NADA Miami Beach and Art+Culture Projects, Ellison presents her latest digital video, *Casey Jane Ellison Personal Trimmer Internal Promo*—a sharp satire of women’s hygiene commercials. This innovative work is uniquely delivered on a thumb drive housed in a custom resin case bearing Ellison’s image, playfully challenging what it means to own digital art. The video screens on December 3rd at Beaches Bar, promising another thought-provoking addition to Ellison’s boundary-pushing oeuvre.

Since returning from his tenure at MOCA, Jeffrey Deitch is redefining his role in the art world by championing a vibrant resurgence of figurative painting and innovative pop-up exhibitions. His upcoming collaborative show “Unrealism” at Art Basel Miami Beach highlights a dynamic mix of legendary ’80s artists alongside fresh talents who are reimagining figuration for today’s cultural moment. Alongside this, Deitch is curating “Overpop,” a groundbreaking international exhibition exploring Pop influences within Post-Internet art, set to debut in Shanghai. Embracing a model that balances commercial savvy with artistic experimentation, Deitch reflects on the evolving New York art scene, the crucial role of performance in contemporary practice, and the shifting cycles of abstraction and figuration, all while emphasizing authenticity, collaboration, and the expanding reach of art in contemporary culture.

Performance art pushes the boundaries of the human body to challenge societal norms, explore endurance, and evoke deep emotional responses. From Hermann Nitsch’s visceral rituals drenched in animal blood to Shigeko Kubota’s provocative “Vagina Painting” subverting masculine creativity, these groundbreaking performances confront repression, identity, and power. Marina Abramović’s harrowing “Rhythm 0” invites audiences to wield control over her body, exposing the dark side of collective behavior, while Vito Acconci’s intimate exploration of sexuality blurs the lines between performer and viewer. Through acts of pain, endurance, and vulnerability—whether Sigalit Landau’s barbed wire hula hoop or Santiago Sierra’s commodification of human bodies—these artists dismantle conventional aesthetics to reveal uncomfortable truths about society, politics, and the human condition.

From captivating mixed-media odes to iconic video game symbols to dreamlike seascapes that pulse with vibrant color, this curated selection of artworks highlights rising stars and established visionaries alike. Featuring Alex Da Corte’s surreal blend of pop culture and design, Katherine Bradford’s fresh yet timeless paintings of ships and skies, Jeff Koons’ provocative early campaign to craft his image, and Mary Simpson’s witty abstract compositions gaining fast traction, these pieces offer a dynamic glimpse into contemporary art’s pulse. Also spotlighted are Analia Saban’s innovative explorations of painting’s boundaries through technology-infused imagery and Pamela Jorden’s breakout abstract tondos that bend traditional forms, all poised to energize any collection with their bold creativity and unique voices.

Forrest Nash offers a captivating tour through NADA Miami Beach, highlighting standout works that blend humor, emotion, and profound insight. From Ken Kagami's darkly comedic take on human-animal relationships to Kaoru Arima’s mysterious glowing hats, and Tyson Reeder’s romantic yet humorous scenes, the fair brims with inventive expressions. Sam Lipp’s haunting portraits evoke cinematic alienation, while Anicka Yi’s delicate tempera-fried flower sculptures make art more accessible. Greg Parma Smith’s eerie “Angels” challenge boundaries between heaven and earth, and Lin May Saeed’s powerful animal liberation themes inspire reflection. Ulrich Wulff’s figurative return, Heather Guertin’s dualistic paintings, and D’Ette Nogle’s intellectually rich video work round out a compelling snapshot of contemporary creativity that is both deeply personal and broadly resonant.

NADA Miami Beach is a vibrant, youthful art fair organized by the New Art Dealers Alliance, a nonprofit collective supporting emerging gallerists and artists through community and collaboration. Unlike exclusive, competitive fairs, NADA fosters an open, welcoming atmosphere where everyone—from top collectors and museum curators to art students and curious visitors—can explore cutting-edge contemporary art from over 100 international galleries. Known for its casual vibe and focus on fresh, trailblazing talent, NADA offers a dynamic experience that blends commerce, culture, and creativity against the sunny backdrop of Miami Beach.

Bill Arning, director of the Contemporary Art Museum Houston, offers a vibrant snapshot of his top five favorite artworks from this year’s NADA Miami Beach, revealing a deep personal and professional connection to each piece. From David Noonan’s nostalgic nod to 1960s New York avant-garde culture to Noa Eshkol’s mesmerizing dance-based wall hangings discovered on a trip to Tel Aviv, Arning’s selections brim with intimate stories and artistic fascination. He praises Nancy Shaver’s quietly seductive work, delights in Jeremy DePrez’s perfectly imperfect, eye-catching paintings that disrupt the art-fair haze, and recalls the punk-infused energy of Wynne Greenwood’s feminist art-rock legacy. Together, these works paint a rich, eclectic portrait of contemporary art’s dynamic edge through the eyes of a seasoned curator.

Corey Lee, the Korean-born culinary maestro behind San Francisco’s three-Michelin-starred Benu, brings the same precision and artistry to his passion for contemporary art as he does to his groundbreaking cuisine. In Phaidon's new monograph, Lee reveals his favorite artworks that inspire him—from Chuck Close’s richly detailed portraits to Jockum Nordström’s evocative folk art collages, Wim Wenders’ dreamlike urban photography, and Sol LeWitt’s geometric masterpieces that play with light and form. Highlighting a blend of avant-garde and tradition, Lee also reflects on the dynamic energy of Beijing’s contemporary scene, embodied by the timeless work of Ai Weiwei and Herzog & de Meuron. Through this curated collection, Lee offers a glimpse into the interplay between his culinary vision and the visual creativity that fuels it.

The reclining nude, an enduring motif spanning over 5,000 years of art history, continues to inspire groundbreaking reinterpretations as highlighted in Phaidon's new book *Body of Art*. From Marcel Duchamp’s provocative *Étant donnés*, which challenges traditional female nudity with its secretive and unsettling gaze, to Henry Moore’s monumental *Reclining Figure: Angles* that fuses primitive and classical forms into a dialogue with the landscape, each work reimagines the human form through unique lenses. Marlene Dumas blurs reality and myth in her ambiguous *Snow White and the Broken Arm*, while Yasumasa Morimura dismantles cultural and gender binaries by inhabiting iconic Western paintings as an Asian male. The Guerrilla Girls expose entrenched sexism in the art world with their biting poster *Do Women Have to Be Naked to Get into the Met Museum?*, and Mark Morrisroe’s intimate self-portraits confront the raw vulnerability of life and illness. Hannah Wilke’s *Intra-Venus Triptych* poignantly documents her battle with cancer, melding personal trauma with the historical idealization of the female body. Lucian Freud’s unflinching realism in *Benefits Supervisor Sleeping* celebrates the flesh and form of a real woman, while Zhang Huan’s daring performance *To Add One Meter to an Anonymous Mountain* uses the naked human body to challenge perceptions of space and presence. These works together reveal the reclining nude not simply as a static image but as a vibrant site of cultural critique and artistic innovation.

Brazilian artist Laura Lima brings an enchanting and unpredictable interspecies spectacle to New York City with her Performa 15 commission, "Gala Chicken and Ball," merging vibrant costumed chickens with a live reenactment of a 17th-century courtly scene. Rejecting traditional performance norms, Lima crafts a dynamic, evolving installation where brightly feathered chickens mingle amidst period-dressed humans, music, and ornate décor, creating a festive yet unscripted atmosphere. The piece explores themes of transformation and interaction, as the birds adjust to their feathered embellishments and natural behaviors intersect with conceptual art, resulting in a captivating exploration of life, beauty, and social dynamics that blurs the boundaries between artist, animal, and audience.

Egyptian-born artist Ghada Amer, celebrated for her provocative embroidered paintings addressing female sexuality and oppression, has recently embraced sculpture, particularly ceramics, as a new expressive medium. Moving beyond painting and embroidery, Amer explores hands-on experimentation with clay, discovering the spontaneity and physicality of ceramics—a shift that has influenced her approach to color and form across all her work. Despite initial challenges and industry skepticism, she has gained recognition for her ceramic pieces, including a recent show inaugurating Leila Heller’s Dubai gallery. Navigating cultural restrictions, Amer continues to push boundaries through feminist themes, blending sensuality, collaboration, and a fresh, automatic creative process that invigorates her evolving artistic practice.

Hank Willis Thomas’s conceptual photography series “Unbranded: Reflections in Black by Corporate America 1968-2008” strips away text from African-American targeted ads, spotlighting the models and prompting reflection on the commodification of Black bodies over four decades. Moving beyond photography into installation and sculpture, Thomas continues to explore framing and perspective, challenging popular representations of Black identity with subtle yet powerful works held by major museums. Influenced by artists like Renee Cox, who empowered the Black female body as resilient and heroic; Eadweard Muybridge, whose photographic studies reveal the fluidity of movement; David Hammons, whose body prints on the American flag blend identity and political critique; and Carolee Schneemann, whose raw, visceral performances confront the body’s political and psychological dimensions, Thomas’s art invites fresh interpretations of history, culture, and embodiment. His work underscores the importance of engaging with uncomfortable truths to awaken a fuller experience of life and identity.

In “30/130: Thirty Years of Books and Catalogs, Etc.,” Bob Nickas offers a compelling reflection on his extensive career as an art writer, curator, and publisher, blending personal archives with a vibrant installation that breaks away from conventional displays. This unique exhibition, part memoir and part one-man book fair, showcases a dynamic intersection of artists’ books, catalogs, records, and commissioned works, highlighting the evolving landscape of art publishing amid market shifts and digital transformations. Nickas candidly explores the challenges and ironies of art criticism, the complex entanglement of writing with the art market, and the power of humor and subversion as tools of critique. Through his engagement with overlooked artists, speculative collecting, and the preservation of art history, he reveals both the difficulties and the vital importance of remaining active and thoughtful in the art world—a world where books and printed materials remain accessible, meaningful artifacts amidst a rapidly changing cultural economy.

Exploring the human body through absence and suggestion, this collection highlights groundbreaking works from Phaidon’s *Body of Art* that redefine how artists engage with corporeal presence. From Jackson Pollock’s submerged figure beneath chaotic drips in *Full Fathom Five* to Yves Klein’s provocative use of human bodies as living paintbrushes, each piece challenges traditional representation. Richard Long’s line etched by his footsteps, the solemn *Aboriginal Memorial* reflecting colonial trauma, and Felix Gonzalez-Torres’s shifting pile of sweets mourning AIDS reveal deeply personal and political narratives. Tracey Emin’s *My Bed* confronts intimate vulnerability, Teresa Margolles’s floating soap bubbles disturbingly connect life and death, and Carey Young quantifies her body’s elemental worth in a sharp critique of commodification. Together, these works illustrate how art can evoke the body’s presence through absence, gesture, and metaphor, inviting profound reflection on identity, memory, and societal values.

As New York’s fall art season heats up, culture enthusiasts are not only hunting for masterpieces but also savoring the city’s diverse culinary scene. From the Venetian-Japanese fusion cicchetti at All’onda in Greenwich Village to Chefs Club’s intimate rotating chef “studio” in the historic Puck Building, foodies have plenty of exciting options. Enjoy Chef Enrique Olvera’s vibrant Mexican flavors at Cosme’s Gramercy hideaway, sip on expertly curated draft wines at Lois in Alphabet City, or indulge in the luxurious cocktails and rich comfort food at The NoMad Bar. These hotspots combine distinct atmospheres and innovative menus that perfectly complement the city’s artistic energy.

Nestled quietly on Baltimore’s Huntingdon Avenue, the Rowhouse Project is a peeling blue row house that serves as a raw, ever-evolving laboratory for contemporary art, where each season is dedicated to a single artist before the building is sold and renewed. Ajay Kurian’s exhibition, "Work Harder Under Water," transformed the dilapidated space with bold structural alterations, embracing the house’s relentless decay as both challenge and collaborator. The intense and unpredictable installation process became a dance of surrender and creation, tempered by the mantra “the house always wins,” which defined the show’s spirit. The opening brought together a vibrant community of friends, artists, and collaborators, underscoring the deeply personal, messy, and generous nature of artistic friendship that fuels creativity beyond the market’s glare. Through this intimate and gritty engagement with space, material, and companionship, Kurian reveals how art lives as a dialogue between artist, place, and the people who make it possible.

Artissima, Turin’s premier contemporary art fair, recently celebrated its 22nd edition, blending the city’s rich aristocratic heritage with cutting-edge artistic innovation. Unlike other European art fairs, Artissima uniquely reflects Turin’s longstanding cultural institutions and royal legacy, creating a sophisticated backdrop for contemporary art. The fair showcases a vibrant mix of emerging international artists and established talents, with works ranging from colorful abstract landscapes to thought-provoking sculptures and installations that explore themes from memory to free will. Investment in VIP experiences and a diverse international gallery presence highlights the fair’s ambition to position Turin as a global art hub. With significant sales to collectors from across Europe and beyond, Artissima deftly balances local pride with international aspirations, making it a standout event in the European art calendar.

Colombian artist Oscar Murillo’s rapid rise in the art world has sparked both acclaim and controversy, with record-breaking auction sales and high-profile collectors fueling intense debate. Yet, beyond the market frenzy, Murillo’s latest show “binary function” at David Zwirner in London reveals a deeply personal exploration of cultural displacement and identity. Drawing on his experience emigrating from Colombia to the UK as a child, the exhibition features a mix of painting, sculpture, sound, and a poignant film set in his hometown that captures themes of nostalgia, globalization, and the complex interplay between his past and present. Through intimate references like the game of dominoes and evocative imagery of home life, Murillo challenges Western ideals while unfolding a narrative that is as much about self-discovery as it is about artistic ambition.

This article explores the profound and evolving challenge to traditional gender binaries as reflected through art across history, revealing a rich tapestry of gender fluidity that transcends time and culture. From the ancient, sensuous Sleeping Hermaphroditos, blending male and female forms, to the transformative Guanyin of Chinese Buddhism shifting from masculine to feminine traits, the pieces highlight how artists have long questioned and redefined gender. The article also spotlights striking modern works—from Magdalena Ventura’s dignified portrait defying norms, to Constantin Brancusi’s provocative Princess X, Claude Cahun’s performative self-portraits, and Lynda Benglis’s bold critique of male dominance. These compelling artworks, alongside Robert Gober’s frail hermaphroditic torso and Louise Bourgeois’s powerful hybrid creature, collectively underscore a vibrant history of artistic inquiry into identity, sexuality, and the fluid nature of the body and gender.

Periscope is revolutionizing how art is shared and experienced by bringing live-streaming video into the creative world in a way that Instagram and traditional photo-sharing apps can’t. This dynamic platform allows users to broadcast real-time performances, exhibitions, and artist talks, capturing the immersive and ephemeral nature of contemporary art—from concerts and gallery openings to intimate conversations about sculpture and installations. The author shares their firsthand experiences using Periscope at events like the Musée d’Art Modern de la Ville de Paris and Frieze, highlighting how the app fosters genuine engagement and dialogue with viewers worldwide. While it transforms art viewing into an interactive, 360-degree experience, there’s also a thoughtful reflection on the implications of constant live documentation. Ultimately, Periscope emerges as an exciting new frontier for capturing and sharing the raw, unedited moments that define today’s vibrant art scene.

From the gilded mask of Egypt’s Tutankhamun to the hauntingly spiritual Fang Ngil mask of Equatorial Guinea, masks have played a vital role in human culture for millennia, serving as powerful symbols in rituals, ceremonies, and social performances around the world. This vibrant exploration highlights ten remarkable masks, from the silver helmet of ancient Syria designed for both battle and ceremony, to the intricate turquoise mosaics of the Mexica, and the sacred, spirit-imbued forms of the Northwest Coast tribes. Each mask reveals a unique blend of artistry, spirituality, and cultural identity, demonstrating how masks transcend mere disguise to connect communities with history, myth, and the supernatural forces that shape their lives.

Historically symbolizing strength and virility, the male nude also reveals beauty, vulnerability, and complex expressions of identity and eroticism. From ancient Greek kouroi statues inspired by Egyptian proportions to monumental Roman sculptures like the Farnese Hercules embodying heroic fatigue, the male form has been a powerful subject in art. Renaissance works such as Antonio Pollaiuolo’s “Battle of the Nudes” celebrate human anatomy with dynamic muscularity, while Jean-Antoine Houdon’s flayed man offers a striking anatomical study. Photography innovator Eadweard Muybridge captures movement with groundbreaking precision, and contemporary artists like Lucas Samaras and Ron Mueck push the boundaries of form and scale, exploring raw emotion and psychological depth. Indigenous carvings and provocative installations by Glenn Ligon further challenge traditional narratives, making the male nude a continually evolving canvas for exploring power, identity, and vulnerability across history and cultures.

Frank Stella, a pioneer of post-painterly abstraction, reflects on his unique 1968 project of creating needlepoint pillows that echoed his signature stripe paintings, bridging the gap between painting and craft. Commissioned for Art in America's "The Mesh Canvas" portfolio, these pillows challenged traditional art boundaries by embracing the repetitive, tactile qualities of needlepoint—a medium often dismissed in avant-garde circles. Stella’s retrospective at the Whitney Museum celebrates this spirit of innovation and material exploration, tracing his evolution from minimalist canvases to cutting-edge sculptural works involving 3D printing, which he intriguingly describes as “like 3D needlepoint.” Through this show, Stella emphasizes the fluid definitions of art, celebrating the intersection of high art and everyday craft.

Lauren Geremia, founder of Geremia Design, merges art and design to transform Silicon Valley offices into inspiring, collaborative spaces that reflect the innovative spirit of tech companies like Dropbox and Instagram. With a background in painting from RISD, Geremia uniquely blends her passion for contemporary art and design to create personalized environments where functional art and thoughtfully selected pieces by artists such as Uta Barth and Olafur Eliasson soften the corporate atmosphere. Her work balances the practical demands of fast-growing tech firms—whose offices often feature open-plan layouts and high adaptability—with the emotional and intellectual resonance that art brings to workplaces, fostering connection, creativity, and productivity. As Silicon Valley’s culture evolves, Geremia’s approach highlights how art not only enhances the aesthetic but also meets the dynamic needs of tech leaders and their teams, bridging the gap between artistic expression and the cutting-edge tech world.

At art fairs, while artworks steal the spotlight, the design pieces—tables, chairs, and occasional couches—play essential supporting roles, carefully chosen by dealers to complement rather than compete with the art. The Paris fairs revealed a fascinating spectrum of furniture approaches: from chic, high-end pieces echoing gallery prestige to pragmatic knockoffs favored by younger exhibitors, and the quirky charm of well-traveled classics like Peter Freeman’s beloved Donald Judd desk. Whether it’s the self-built Italian Modernist table at Gallery 8+4 or the elegant Marcel Breuer chairs at Elvira Gonzalez, these choices reflect each gallery’s aesthetic and practical needs, blending functionality with style to create inviting, cohesive booth environments that amplify the artworks' impact without overshadowing them.

This year, the art world witnessed the debut of Paris Internationale, a stylish and intimate new fair boasting just 41 exhibitors compared to FIAC’s sprawling 175. With an aristocratic flair and a location near the Arc de Triomphe, this fresh and clever event quickly captured attention as the cooler younger sibling, drawing in influential figures like Hans Ulrich Obrist and Simon Castets. The fair showcased stellar contributions from emerging artists, including Ry Rocklen’s refined craftsmanship, striking paintings by Adam Gordon, and an intriguing mix of contemporary works. Highlighting a carefully curated selection of about 50 standout pieces, Paris Internationale proved itself a promising and vibrant addition to the global art scene, sparking admiration and excitement among collectors and art lovers alike.

Alexander S. C. Rower, president of the Calder Foundation, shares his insightful journey through Paris during FIAC, highlighting remarkable art experiences including the installation of Calder’s monumental sculpture *Five Empties* and a captivating performance of the Russian Futurist opera *Victory Over the Sun* at the Fondation Louis Vuitton. Rower reflects on architectural marvels, like the balletic steel structures of the Grand Palais, and celebrates artists such as Monika Sosnowska, Sarah Sze, Julio González, Constantin Brancusi, and Glenn Brown, whose innovative sculptures, drawings, and historic photographs enrich the contemporary art landscape. Through his keen eye, the intersection of tradition and avant-garde emerges vividly, revealing profound moments of creativity and artistic legacy in the heart of Paris’s vibrant art scene.

This vibrant selection from Phaidon's *Body of Art* explores the multifaceted nature of work through seven compelling artworks, each capturing different dimensions of labor—from the grueling toil of Russian barge haulers and Parisian floor scrapers to the tender care of childcare and the surreal dynamics of modern production lines. From Ilya Repin’s humanizing realism to Mary Cassatt’s intimate domestic scene, and from Philip Guston’s raw self-portrait revealing the struggles of creative labor to Mika Rottenberg’s witty critique of industrialization and femininity, these pieces probe the physical, emotional, and societal facets of work. Josh Kline’s haunting 3D-printed sculptures and Pierre Huyghe’s dystopian film featuring a monkey-as-worker challenge us to rethink human identity and the mechanization of labor in today’s world, making this collection a powerful meditation on the enduring impact of work on our lives and humanity.

At Officielle, a palpable revival of passionate, politically charged art from past decades takes center stage, revealing a yearning for boldness amid today’s complacency. From Norman Zammitt’s radiant Light & Space paintings captured with scientific precision, to Claude Viallat’s revolutionary use of industrial materials challenging painting’s traditions, the fair showcases works that radiate historical significance and vibrant energy. Elżbieta Cieślar’s evocative photographs imbued with red ink trace haunting memories of political repression, while Sanja Iveković’s compelling portraits give voice to anti-fascist women whose stories blend stark imagery with profound resilience. Meanwhile, Marcin Dudek channels the raw aggression of his youth in Kraków through magnetic tape paintings that critique failed ideologies and stark urban realities. Together, these artists weave a rich narrative of resistance, memory, and aesthetic daring that reverberates powerfully in today’s art scene.

Massimiliano Gioni, the visionary curator behind exhibitions like “The Great Mother” at Milan’s Palazzo Reale, explores the enduring power and contemporary resurgence of figurative sculpture—a genre that bridges ancient traditions and modern innovation. Far from a simple return to representational art, Gioni reveals how these sculptures engage viewers on a visceral level, evoking the uncanny and bridging physical and emotional spaces. Drawing on influences from Catholic church statues to artists like Charles Ray and Mike Kelley, he discusses how figurative sculpture today serves as a therapeutic counterpoint to our technology-saturated lives, reconnecting us with our own bodies. “The Great Mother” offers a profound look at 20th-century maternal imagery, intertwining mythology, feminism, and avant-garde movements to illuminate how representations of the female form have shaped and challenged cultural narratives. Through this lens, Gioni invites us to reconsider the figure not just as visual form, but as a powerful, inclusive, and transformative force in art.

As FIAC opens in Paris, art lovers can also indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene with top recommendations from Phaidon’s Wallpaper* City Guide. Highlights include Saturne, where young Chef Sven Chartier crafts elegant six-course meals paired with exquisite natural wines in a minimalist setting; Monsieur Bleu at Palais de Tokyo, offering a stylish lunch stop amid contemporary art’s thrilling disarray; and the ever-buzzing Le Mary Celeste, famed for its creative cocktails and adventurous daily menu. For seafood enthusiasts, Clamato serves globetrotting ocean fare in a cozy, cabin-inspired atmosphere, while Brasserie Thoumieux buzzes with chic Parisian energy under the guidance of a Michelin-starred chef, blending haute cuisine and a sophisticated social scene. Each spot promises a unique taste of Parisian flair alongside the city’s thriving art world.

The Sunday Art Fair in London revealed a mood of dystopian unease among emerging artists grappling with technological anxiety and existential ambivalence. Highlights included Louisa Gagliardi’s post-internet portraits imbued with a ’90s techno-club vibe and unsettling textures, Joanna Piotrowska’s haunting family photographs that unsettle with their uncanny sensuality, and Alex Rathbone’s playful yet spooky paintings featuring ghostly motifs. Spiros Hadjidjanos merged classical naturalist photography with cutting-edge 3D printing to create enigmatic sculptures and holographic prints, while Darja Bajagić’s provocative collage-paintings confront dark cultural taboos through a raw mix of social media imagery, pornographic and violent iconography, and haunting personal references. Together, these artists presented a complex, often eerie vision of contemporary life filtered through technology, memory, and identity.

At this year’s Frieze London, a handful of artists are pushing contemporary painting into urgent and innovative territories. Trevor Shimizu captivates with childlike yet deeply personal narratives rendered in his distinct style, while Ed Fornieles uses whimsical animal personas to explore the complexities of modern identity in the social media age. Laure Prouvost blurs the lines between the digital and physical worlds through text-based, tactile artworks that spring from her multimedia practice. Mira Dancy boldly revises art history by portraying women as empowered protagonists who confront the viewer with defiant presence, reclaiming a space often dominated by the male gaze. Meanwhile, the late Sylvia Sleigh’s evocative paintings of the ruined Crystal Palace serve as a poignant reminder of overlooked female talent, with her long-overdue recognition highlighting the ongoing revaluation of artists marginalized in their time. Together, these artists mark a vital dialogue between past and present, reality and representation, charting a compelling course for painting today.

From prehistoric figurines to contemporary paintings, the human body has long been a powerful canvas reflecting shifting ideals of beauty across cultures and eras. This selection from Phaidon’s Body of Art showcases nine masterpieces, each challenging and redefining what beauty means—from Malta’s sophisticated Sleeping Lady symbolizing fertility or divine healing, to the Yoruba Ife Shrine Head embodying spiritual and physical essence, and Marie-Guillemine Benoist’s groundbreaking portrait that confronts race and gender politics in post-revolutionary France. Other highlights include Vallotton’s daringly cropped Study of Buttocks, Foujita’s ethereal portrayal of bohemian muse Kiki de Montparnasse, and Matisse’s vibrant Blue Nude cut-outs that fuse color and form with joyous simplicity. The collection also spotlights Sylvia Sleigh’s gender-reversing Turkish Bath, Orlan’s provocative Carnal Art performances challenging fixed notions of femininity, and Dana Schutz’s playful yet poignant take on the reclining nude, subverting traditional male gazes through a post-apocalyptic lens. Together, these works invite us to reconsider conventional beauty, embracing diversity, identity, and the body as a dynamic and expressive art form.

Frieze London, known as a curator-friendly fair founded by art critics, this year leans heavily toward elegant, abstract-leaning paintings that cater to collectors seeking sophisticated, above-the-couch art. With soaring booth prices making it the priciest fair per square inch, the emphasis is on tasteful works across a broad spectrum—from mirrored selfie-ready pieces to classic Abstract Expressionism and innovative textile art—all designed to grace stylish walls. While the blue-chip aisles overflow with large-scale, refined paintings, the fair also highlights a variety of engaging, edgy works from younger galleries near the entrance. Showcasing a diverse roster of artists such as Mary Weatherford, Joan Mitchell, Do Ho Suh, Yayoi Kusama, and Robert Rauschenberg, Frieze London presents a rich, visually stunning narrative of contemporary art, blending tradition with fresh, cerebral approaches.

From captivating lithographs by MacArthur genius Sarah Sze to the architectural precision of Candida Höfer’s intimate Philip Johnson Library photograph, this curated selection spotlights standout contemporary works primed for savvy collectors. Highlighted are Conor Backman’s playful exploration of painting’s materiality, Olafur Elíasson's perceptual photogravure linked to social impact, and Trudy Benson’s bold, computer-art-inspired canvases pulsating with color and texture. The collection concludes with Sam Gilliam’s masterful relief print, reflecting his trailblazing legacy in Color Field painting. Each piece, thoughtfully chosen, offers a compelling blend of conceptual depth and visual allure, embodying moments of innovation across modern art’s evolving landscape.

Painting today is experiencing an exhilarating revival of figuration, moving beyond the abstraction-heavy trends of recent decades. This return is richly explored in Phaidon's new book *Body of Art*, which celebrates the human body’s diverse and complex representations across cultures and history. From the intimate portraits of contemporary artists like Sandro Kopp, who captures loved ones via Skype, to the bold, unflinching depictions of Marilyn Minter’s provocative work, figuration offers a visceral, deeply human connection that challenges traditional boundaries of taste and beauty. As digital images flood our lives yet often vanish into obscurity, painted portraits demand devotion and attention, embodying real presence and emotional truth. In a world where identity, technology, and artistic expression intersect, the figure remains an irresistible subject, forever compelling us with its flaws, stories, and intimate power.

Rachel Rose is making waves this month as the winner of the Frieze Artist’s Award, debuting an innovative installation at the London art fair alongside her ongoing work at the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, and preparing for her first solo U.S. museum show at the Whitney. Her creative practice blends conceptual filmmaking with immersive installation, exploring perception through the lens of body and environment as architecture. At Frieze, she transforms a scaled replica of the fair’s tent into a sensory space where visitors experience music and light filtered through the hearing and vision of animals like foxes and robins, encouraging a shift beyond human perception. Rose’s work thoughtfully engages with architecture and natural surroundings, using physical space to deepen the viewer’s connection to the artwork and evoke metaphysical reflections on limitation and experience—whether through the interplay of projection and sunlight at the Whitney or the carefully designed landscapes in her Serpentine show. Driven by curiosity and collaboration, she integrates research and materiality to turn intimate feelings about time, nature, and vulnerability into profound visual and auditory journeys.

MoMA PS1’s fourth edition of Greater New York reveals a captivating shift in the city’s art scene, spotlighting a renewed fascination with figuration. While abstraction dominated recent years, this exhibition highlights how artists are bringing the human form back into focus—whether through floating body parts emerging from abstract canvases, distorted portraits, or sculptures and photographs that explore the body from unconventional angles. The show spans generations and mediums, blending fresh contemporary pieces with spirited historical works, and even weaving in New York’s vital fashion culture through the innovative creations of designers like Ekhaus Latta and Susan Cianciolo. This dynamic mélange provokes fresh discussions about urbanism, identity, and the enduring power of the figure amid evolving artistic trends.

Contemporary art gallery websites often stick to a familiar formula, but a new wave of spaces is pushing the boundaries with experimental and playful designs that mirror the shifting aesthetics of Post-Internet art. From Marlborough Contemporary’s mysterious floating Tetris block to Know More Games’ GIF-filled homage to internet culture, these sites transcend the usual gallery portal. Galerie Gabrielle Maubrie surprises with a pixelated dolphin and a faux hacked search page, while Moiety offers intuitive, image-driven navigation that feels refreshingly novel. Los Angeles’s Chin’s Push embraces alt culture with Pokémon-themed exhibitions and webcam projects that defy expectations, and London’s Cabinet gallery layers enigmatic videos and puzzling page layouts that challenge conventional online gallery experiences. These inventive websites prove that the digital presentation of art can be as engaging and thought-provoking as the exhibitions themselves.

In her latest show "Fight in an Elevator" at Petzel, Dana Schutz explores the tension and compression of figures confined within claustrophobic spaces, reflecting a restless energy both physical and psychological. Her characters push against the frames that contain them, embodying her philosophy of painting as frantic action in limited space. Drawing from personal experience—including the profound impact of motherhood—and cultural moments like viral elevator fights, Schutz infuses her work with a blend of abstraction, narrative complexity, and materiality. Through a dynamic process involving drawing directly into wet canvases and focusing on compositional structure, she challenges traditional figure representation, merging emotional intensity with formal experimentation. The show captures a zeitgeist of constrained struggle, inviting viewers to witness characters caught between containment and eruption, echoing broader social and intimate themes.

Across ancient civilizations, goddesses played essential roles, embodying themes from fertility and nature to power and mystery, captured in some of the most exquisite artworks preserved to this day. From the voluptuous Venus of Willendorf’s Paleolithic icon of fertility to the enigmatic Babylonian Queen of the Night, whose divine identity still sparks debate, these sculptures reveal rich spiritual and cultural symbolism. The Minoan Snake Goddess with her serpentine companions hints at ritualistic ceremonies, while the hybrid styles of the Syriac cosmetics box reflect a vibrant exchange of Mediterranean influences. Spain’s Lady of Elche and Italy’s Etruscan statuettes showcase regional interpretations of divine femininity, blending local and classical elements. The celebrated Venus di Milo exemplifies Hellenistic grace and innovation, and India’s Yakshi figures glow with sensuous realism and sacred honor, bridging artistic traditions across vast empires. Together, these stunning figurines and reliefs trace the diverse and enduring reverence for the feminine divine in human history.

Martine Syms, who prefers the title “conceptual entrepreneur,” defies traditional artist labels through her multifaceted practice that spans video, net art, publishing, branding, and design. Her first New York solo show at Bridget Donahue gallery offers an immersive experience blending video, sculpture, photography, and a bookstore featuring her imprint Dominica, dedicated to blackness in visual culture. Central to the exhibition is the captivating performative video Notes on Gesture, featuring Diamond Stingily repeating small, deliberate actions with rhythmic, stuttered editing that echoes contemporary media’s fixation on dissecting gestures—especially those of women—in today’s micro-television landscape. This work highlights how society fragments full characters into fleeting moments, reflecting on the politics of representation and communication in the digital age.

Phaidon’s new book *Do It Yourself* spotlights imaginative and accessible projects from today’s most exciting artists, featuring an exclusive excerpt by Ai Weiwei. Known for his provocative blend of art and activism, Ai guides readers through crafting charming stuffed sock puppets infused with a rebellious spirit. Inspired by the caonima—an alpaca-themed symbol of internet censorship resistance in China—this project transforms simple materials into playful yet potent statements against authority. With straightforward step-by-step instructions, Ai invites you to create these whimsical puppets that carry a powerful message beneath their cute exterior, reflecting his commitment to human rights and creative dissent.

Neïl Beloufa’s work challenges traditional notions of filmmaking and art by blurring the lines between fiction and reality, authority and rebellion, success and failure. Drawing inspiration from parables and playful subversion, his films and installations invite viewers to question the nature of interpretation, representation, and power. With a signature style that uses everyday materials and amateur actors, Beloufa creates immersive, layered environments where humor and political critique coexist. His approach embraces imperfection and the inevitability of failure as essential parts of the artistic process, reflecting a “romantic cynicism” that confronts the art world’s pretensions while fostering open-ended dialogue. Through these complex, often contradictory works, Beloufa provokes audiences to reconsider how meaning is constructed and who controls the narrative.

The 2015 Istanbul Biennial, curated by Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev under the theme "Saltwater: A Theory of Thoughtforms," explores movement and exile through a complex and often contradictory lens. Highlighting historical displacements like Trotsky’s exile, the Armenian genocide, and the exodus of Turkey’s Greek population, the exhibition navigates the tensions between Turkey as both a refuge and a place of expulsion. While some works, such as William Kentridge’s and Adrian Villar Rojas’s installations, engage with these themes amidst striking settings, others are overwhelmed by the ambitious scale and intellectual rigor of the curatorial vision. Notable exceptions include Ed Atkins’s haunting video piece and Theaster Gates’s thoughtful integration of local culture. Yet, the Biennial’s focus on the past and abstraction of contemporary crises risks an orientalist and exclusionary tone, intensified by its sprawling format across Istanbul’s evocative venues. Ultimately, "Saltwater" is an intellectually dense but uneven journey that mirrors the complexities of movement, memory, and identity in a region marked by continual flux and exile.

Painters have long used projection tools, from the camera obscura to modern light technologies, to enhance their work, but today’s artists are boldly integrating projection directly into their paintings to create dynamic, hybrid artworks. German painter Albert Oehlen overlays films onto abstract canvases, challenging viewers’ perceptions, while Josiah McElheny blends film, painting, and sculpture through layered projections on textured surfaces. Collaborative duo Dave Miko and Tom Thayer merge stop-motion animation with vibrant enamel panels, crafting rich narratives within abstraction. Ken Okiishi reimagines painting on flat-screen monitors, merging brushstrokes with glitchy video imagery to explore digital translation, and Sanya Kantarovsky animates his cartoon-like figures with colorful projections and music, creating immersive environments that address creative struggles. Together, these artists demonstrate how projection breathes new life and narrative depth into painting, pushing the boundaries of the medium.

From prehistoric Neolithic sculptures like the ambiguous Thinker of Cernavoda to the haunting expressionism of Edvard Munch’s The Scream, this selection from Phaidon's *30,000 Years of Art* reveals some of history’s most poignant and somber masterpieces. It includes the mysterious captured nobleman from ancient Mexico, the weighty Romanesque Lewis Chess Piece queen exuding quiet contemplation, Masaccio’s raw depiction of Adam and Eve’s agonizing expulsion from Paradise, and Albrecht Dürer’s intricate engraving *Melancholia I*, a profound meditation on artistic genius and despair. Together, these works capture the universal human experiences of sorrow, loss, and existential reflection across time and cultures, making for a deeply moving journey through art’s darker moods.

Each spring and fall, Berlin transforms into a vibrant epicenter of contemporary art, drawing an eclectic mix of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts to events like Gallery Weekend, Berlin Art Week, and abc art berlin contemporary. These festivals offer a dynamic blend of gallery openings, performances, and installations that celebrate both high-minded creativity and a sense of communal participation. From provocative public art by figures like Paul McCarthy to the bustling gallery scenes in Kreuzberg and Neukölln, Berlin’s art world thrives on its diverse cultural influences and the influx of international talent. While the city may not boast a vast number of collectors, its welcoming atmosphere and affordable opportunities make it a haven for both emerging artists and savvy buyers. With its relaxed vibe, rich artistic energy, and innovative fairs set in unique industrial spaces, Berlin offers an immersive and invigorating experience that keeps people returning season after season.

The Broad Museum in downtown Los Angeles, a $140 million gift from Eli and Edythe Broad, opens with a strikingly familiar yet impressive 200-piece exhibition drawn from their expansive 2,000-piece collection. The chronological showcase highlights iconic works from Pop art to contemporary masters like Cindy Sherman, Basquiat, and Jeff Koons, capped by Yayoi Kusama’s mesmerizing Infinity Mirrored Room. While some critics note the exhibition’s conventional breadth, the museum’s architectural marvel, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, steals the show with its distinctive "veil" façade that filters L.A.'s sunlight and a "vault" that stores the collection at its core, creating an innovative yet inviting cinematic experience. Free to the public and strategically situated to energize Grand Avenue’s cultural scene, The Broad offers Angelenos an accessible introduction to blue-chip contemporary art in a space that skillfully balances urban engagement with curatorial precision.

In his 17-minute performance piece *September Spring* at the Kitchen, contemporary artist Sam Falls transforms dance into a vibrant and poignant tribute to his late friend Jamie Kanzler. Featuring dancers Jessie Gold and Elizabeth Hart, the work blends color, movement, and music to create abstract paintings with their feet on plush white carpets, evoking both joyous celebration and deep mourning. Illuminated by strobe lights and set to Kanzler’s own soundscape, the performance explores themes of loss and memory with a playful yet profound energy. Complemented by finished paintings that hang like vivid mementos, *September Spring* captivates with its delicate balance between ephemeral performance and enduring artistic expression.

Photographer Andrew Moore’s new book, *Dirt Meridian*, captures the profound transformation of America’s Great Plains, exploring the tension between a land shaped by generations of homesteaders and the rapid industrial incursion of fracking and pipelines. Through striking aerial and ground-level images taken over a decade, Moore reveals a landscape caught between natural beauty, historical legacy, and resource-driven upheaval. Drawing inspiration from literary giants and early photographers, he eschews Western clichés to tell the story through the land itself—its dirt, emptiness, and evolving ruins—highlighting the intricate relationship between humans, animals, and the environment amid change. The work offers a poignant meditation on ambition, resilience, and the fragile future of this often overlooked but vital American heartland.

Pope Francis's recent visit to the United States has reignited interest in the rich history of papal representation in art, inspiring a curated selection of masterpieces spanning over six centuries. From Sassetta’s 15th-century portrayal of Saint Francis renouncing earthly ties, through Holbein’s intricate dual portrait symbolizing power and mortality, to El Greco’s visionary depiction of a holy funeral, these works reveal the multifaceted relationship between spirituality, authority, and human emotion. The collection also explores Baroque sculpture by Algardi, the haunting intensity of Francis Bacon’s modern reinterpretation of a papal portrait, and Manzù’s serene mid-20th-century reflection on religious office. Maurizio Cattelan’s provocative installation of Pope John Paul II struck down by a meteorite caps this journey, blending satire with profound commentary on infallibility and fate, highlighting how artists across eras have continuously grappled with the complex symbolism of the papacy.

From Los Angeles’s critically acclaimed Laura Owens to the delightfully irreverent Scott Reeder, this curated selection of white-hot contemporary artworks showcases a vibrant array of styles and ideas collectors should watch closely. Owens mesmerizes with her masterful printwork and playful references, while Reeder’s conceptual wit delivers compelling, laugh-out-loud minimalism. Gina Beavers carries forward the tradition of pop painting with bold, textured nudes that practically leap off the canvas, and Jean-Baptiste Bernadet conjures abstract dreams that shimmer with synesthetic inspiration. Mark Leckey’s cerebral, pop-culture-infused prints invite endless discovery, and Elise Ferguson blends geometric abstraction and architectural intrigue in accessible, prize-winning pieces. Together, these artists represent a thrilling moment in art where innovation, humor, and craftsmanship intersect.

EXPO CHICAGO spotlights a thrilling wave of young artists whose innovative work is capturing attention at accessible price points, making it an exciting event for collectors and art lovers alike. From Joshua Nathanson’s sleek, tech-infused interpretations of Los Angeles life, echoing Impressionist plein air traditions, to David Jien’s intricately detailed drawings blending graffiti with Persian miniatures, the fair pulses with diverse energy. Daniel Turner's industrial sculptures gleam with bold, chainsaw-carved intensity, while Victoria Fu’s neon installations celebrate our modern digital gestures. J.J. Peet’s multidisciplinary mastery earned him the Northern Trust Purchase Prize, showcasing lush paintings and ceramics that captivate, and Paul Heyer’s nostalgic nod to 1980s decadence adds vibrant flair. New York’s Sara Magenheimer transforms poetry into striking visual compositions, and the collective Regina Rex brings a dynamic, collaborative spirit that challenges conventions and embraces artistic experimentation. This lineup confirms EXPO CHICAGO as a fertile ground for discovering the cutting edge of contemporary art.

The Harvard Art Museums celebrate the vibrant and socially conscious Pop art of Sister Mary Corita Kent, a Roman Catholic nun whose bold, text-driven screenprints from the 1960s blend religious messages, political rhetoric, and corporate slogans with riotous colors and playful language. Her work, featured in the exhibition “Corita Kent and the Language of Pop,” is gaining fresh institutional spotlight alongside retrospectives like “Someday Is Now” in Pasadena, highlighting her unique voice within Pop art—a movement traditionally dominated by male artists. This renewed recognition also reflects a broader expansion of Pop’s narrative to include diverse female and global artists, positioning Kent’s jubilant, activism-infused prints alongside iconic contemporaries such as Warhol and Indiana, and affirming her lasting impact on art and culture.

EXPO CHICAGO’s fourth edition offers an exciting blend of top-tier contemporary art, featuring standout works from a diverse roster of artists. Rising star Dean Levin fascinates with his "Rendered Memory" paintings that blur architectural space and painterly illusion, while the legendary Wayne Thiebaud continues to enchant at 95 with lyrical, imaginative still-lifes. Mickalene Thomas revisits identity and self-representation, presenting evocative portraits from her early work at Yale. Christopher Rauschenberg captures evocative flea market still lifes, and Elizabeth Neel’s large-scale abstractions combine gestural power with precision. John Houck’s innovative cyanotypes invert classic Gothic cathedrals’ perspectives, and Richard Pettibone delights with his meticulous, small-scale homages to iconic modern works. Carol Bove’s tactile, yarn-layered canvases pay tribute to modernist pioneers, while Robert Gober’s poignant photo piece recalls early LGBTQ+ struggles with powerful historical resonance. Finally, Theaster Gates impresses with a new body of work merging pottery and tar, reflecting his deep engagement with tradition and materiality. This edition of EXPO CHICAGO is a rich and varied showcase that captures the vibrancy and depth of today’s art scene.

From ancient cave paintings to the opulent splendor of the Vienna Secession, love scenes have long fascinated artists and viewers alike, capturing humanity’s tender, complex emotions across cultures and centuries. This curated journey through Phaidon's *30,000 Years of Art* highlights diverse and evocative depictions of love—from the sacred Bronze Age ritual of “The Lovers” in Sweden, to the vibrant May Day celebrations of the Limbourg brothers’ Gothic illumination, the intimate Buddhist deities of Mongolia, and the symbolic symmetry of Madagascar’s Sakalava couple. Journeying through Gainsborough’s genteel British portraiture, Fragonard’s playful Rococo masterpiece *The Swing*, the refined eroticism of Japanese Ukiyo-e, and Redon’s haunting Symbolist Cyclops, the collection culminates in Klimt’s shimmering, gold-imbued *The Kiss*, an enduring emblem of passion and transcendence. These artworks reveal love’s myriad faces—proud, playful, sacred, and sensual—offering a rich tapestry of human connection and artistic expression across time and place.

Forrest Nash, founding editor of Contemporary Art Daily, shares his insightful picks from EXPO CHICAGO, showcasing a compelling array of contemporary artworks. From Pier Paolo Calzolari’s delicate salt water clock that quietly measures time, to Tomma Abts’s complex, editioned paintings, each piece reveals layers of meaning and craftsmanship. Nash explores paradox and identity in Julian Hoeber’s geometric sculptures, while Nicole Wermers’s theatrical chairs blur the lines between art, design, and function. Richard Rezac’s refined compositions and Will Benedict’s satirical commentary bring diverse perspectives, as Anna Ostoya’s performative paintings engage viewers in time and presence. Julia Fish offers moments of quiet introspection amidst the fair’s bustle, and the haunting dolls of Jos de Gruyter & Harald Thys evoke a dark historical narrative. Nash’s selections illuminate the dynamic and thought-provoking spirit of this year’s fair.

Michelle Grabner, an influential artist and professor, shares her highlights from EXPO CHICAGO, showcasing a dynamic range of contemporary art that pushes boundaries and invites deep reflection. From Pablo Rasgado’s poetic drywall installations reflecting cultural histories to Mike Andrews’s innovative sculptures blending craft with industrial materials, each piece challenges traditional forms. Uta Barth’s evocative photographs explore the intimate and the hidden, while Claire Sherman reinvigorates landscape painting with complexity and abstraction. Mary Corse’s luminous canvases play with light and perception, and Julian Hoeber’s crafted objects provoke intellectual curiosity through subtle philosophical references. Sara Greenberger Rafferty intersects stand-up comedy with psychoanalytic humor, and Dan Gunn melds craft technique with abstract painting genius. Jessica Jackson Hutchins delights with her assemblage of everyday materials, and Nate Young’s wooden constructions evoke reverence and contemplation. Together, these artists represent a vibrant dialogue at the forefront of contemporary art practice.

Trevor Paglen’s interdisciplinary art explores the hidden infrastructures of mass surveillance, from secret spy satellites to NSA-tapped undersea cables, revealing the invisible mechanisms shaping our world. Drawing on extensive research, including leaked Snowden files, scuba diving, and collaboration with activists, his work blends aesthetics with deep political inquiry, challenging notions of photographic truth and the limits of visibility. His exhibition at Metro Pictures pays homage to whistleblower Edward Snowden, featuring images and installations like the Autonomy Cube—a functional Tor router that reimagines institutional spaces as bastions of privacy and autonomy. Paglen’s art navigates the tension between small gestures and vast systems of control, offering a powerful, nuanced commentary on surveillance, technology, and the ethics embedded within them, while inspiring reflection on how we see and shape our historical moment.

Ajay Kurian’s foray into public art on Governors Island reveals the daunting challenges and unexpected heartbreaks behind creating outdoor sculptures. Tasked with crafting three kiddie pool-like totems layered with complex imagery and materials, Kurian faced a relentless battle against technical hurdles—from bubbling polyurethane coatings to chemical burns—and the effects of weather and time. Despite finally sealing the works, the sculptures endured swift and deliberate vandalism, raising profound questions about public engagement, the psychology of destruction, and the fraught relationship between art and community in American society. Kurian’s experience underscores the vulnerability of public art and the often unseen emotional and physical toll on artists committed to making their visions accessible outside traditional gallery walls.

Barnaby Furnas’s latest exhibition, “First Morning,” marks a striking evolution from his signature blood-red battle scenes to serene landscapes awash with calming blues and greens. Inspired by his young son’s playful use of Colorforms vinyl stickers, Furnas explores abstract, elemental forms that evoke prehistoric life and natural forces locked in a timeless battle. Employing a meticulous process of paint puddling on ridged canvases, he captures a delicate balance between control and chance, creating compositions that feel both mystical and intensely physical. Drawing on influences from Cézanne to Charles Burchfield, Furnas abandons narrative storytelling for a more expansive, meditative engagement with color, texture, and form—inviting viewers to witness landscapes that both look outward and reflect inward, embodying a new emotional palette rooted in tranquility and subtle tension.

At the heart of the Whitney Museum’s dynamic new downtown presence is curator Jay Sanders, who is passionately reviving the museum’s storied tradition of performance art through provocative, boundary-pushing programming. From transforming gallery spaces into stages for avant-garde dance, music, and theater to reawakening legendary East Village acts like the iconic duo Dancenoise, Sanders is blending nostalgia with cutting-edge experimentation. By fostering in-person, immersive experiences that challenge how audiences engage with art, he aims to create vibrant artistic communities reminiscent of the underground scenes of the 70s and 80s, while responding to the digital age’s fractured cultural landscape. With a lineup ranging from Fluxus retrospectives to future collaborations with figures like Laura Poitras, Sanders is spearheading a bold vision that celebrates performance as a powerful force of connection, disruption, and radical creativity at the Whitney.

Art history teems with mythical and hybrid creatures, showcased vividly in seven remarkable works spanning ancient to medieval times. From the awe-inspiring Neo-Assyrian human-headed winged bulls guarding royal palaces in Mesopotamia, to the life-sized, battle-worn bronze Chimera of Arezzo embodying Etruscan artistry, each piece tells a tale of culture, belief, and craftsmanship. The exquisite Eastern Zhou dynasty figure from China, with its intricate antlers and cosmic symbolism, connects Central Asian nomadic influences to sacred traditions. In Italy, spirited winged horses adorn an Etruscan temple, exuding power and grace, while a mysterious 11th-century Islamic griffin sculpture in Pisa blurs cultural lines with its stylized abstraction and enigmatic purpose. The Yuan Dynasty David Vases demonstrate the pinnacle of Chinese porcelain artistry with flourishing dragons and phoenixes, symbols of fortune and mystique. Finally, the lush Unicorn in Captivity tapestry from the Netherlands weaves a complex allegory of love, faith, and resurrection, rich with symbolic flora and medieval devotion. Together, these artworks invite us to explore the enduring allure of mythical beasts as embodiments of human imagination and spiritual meaning across centuries and civilizations.

Carole Server, a passionate collector and Bronx Museum trustee, shares her vibrant picks from EXPO CHICAGO, showcasing a dazzling array of emerging artists who captivate with their unique visions. From Chantal Joffe’s lush, sensitive portraits and Gianna Commito’s geometric gems to Leif Ritchey’s dreamy pastels with a bold twist, each artist brings something compelling to the table. Diana Al-Hadid’s riveting sculptures and panel works, Magalie Guerin’s dense, tactile paint application, and Guy Yanai’s intriguing pixelated figuratives further highlight the depth of talent. Iconic figures like Jonathan Lasker’s influential abstracts meet Jessica Jackson Hutchins’s evocative mixed-media assemblages, while Tomory Dodge’s evolving abstraction and Derrick Adams’s poignant collages blend art, culture, and identity, making this selection a thrilling glimpse into the contemporary art scene.

Deborah Aaronson, Phaidon's insightful publisher, shares her top picks from EXPO CHICAGO, showcasing works that stir curiosity and emotion across mediums. From Ai Weiwei’s wooden handcuffs embodying tension and desire, to Amy Cutler’s enigmatic forest scene bubbling with mystery, each piece captivates in unique ways. Highlights include Tony Tasset’s bold bronze cup, Laurel Roth Hope’s tender pigeon sculptures, May Wilson’s sharp and humorous “Ridiculous Portraits,” and Bridget Riley’s vibrantly pulsating green painting. This curated selection reveals a dynamic interplay of beauty, wit, and thoughtful design, reflecting Aaronson’s finely tuned eye for art that resonates deeply.

As the Istanbul Biennial attracts art lovers from around the world, the city’s vibrant dining scene offers an irresistible complement to its cultural allure. Visitors can immerse themselves in a rich culinary journey, from the pulsating nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Anjelique, to the sleek, art-inspired ambiance and innovative Turkish cuisine at Müzedechanga. For those seeking alfresco mezze with a soundtrack of vinyl records, Münferit provides a stylish and relaxed setting, while the upscale terrace of Mangerie in Bebek delights with stunning Bosphorus views and fresh, healthy dishes. Meanwhile, Naif charms with its friendly vibe and thoughtfully simplified new Turkish cooking, making it a perfect spot to recharge between gallery visits. Each venue showcases Istanbul’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, inviting visitors to savor the city’s irresistible flavors.

Amid the turmoil of the Russian Revolution, a daring group of avant-garde artists challenged centuries-old artistic traditions, giving rise to the groundbreaking movements of Suprematism and Constructivism. Suprematism, led by Kasimir Malevich, sought to distill art to pure forms and colors, conveying “non-objective sensation,” while Constructivism, championed by Vladimir Tatlin and Alexander Rodchenko, emphasized socially useful art, blending creativity with functionality. Though later overshadowed by Stalin’s Socialist Realism, these movements profoundly influenced global modern art, architecture, and design. From Malevich’s abstract color planes to Tatlin’s visionary unbuilt Monument to the Third International, and El Lissitzky’s architectural abstractions to Lyubov Popova’s integration of art and everyday life, this era reshaped artistic expression and left a lasting legacy on the visual language of the 20th century.

Jibz Cameron’s one-woman show “Good Morning Good Evening Feelings” exemplifies a vibrant fusion of contemporary art and standup comedy, where absurdity, satire, and performance blend into a compelling new art form. This emerging genre, embraced by artists like Casey Jane Ellison and Kate Berlant, challenges traditional boundaries by using humor to critique social issues, art world elitism, and identity politics with sharp wit and experimental flair. Amidst a renewed cultural interest in comedy as a space for political expression and personal resistance, these artist-comedians navigate themes of marginalization and power, creating performances that are as intellectually provocative as they are entertaining. As institutions increasingly showcase this hybrid art, the balance between maintaining its raw, rebellious edge and adapting to the spectacle-driven art scene remains a crucial conversation.

Brie Ruais creates compelling ceramic sculptures that fuse physicality, language, and conceptual art, using her own body weight as both a material measure and a point of departure. Her works, often named after verbs like "Push Up" or "Spreading Out," embody the performative gestures she physically enacts in her Sunset Park studio, translating movement and energy into vivid clay forms. Drawing inspiration from natural landscapes and Abstract Expressionism, Ruais applies colors and glazes intuitively to breathe life back into her pieces, which she views as living entities that capture time, space, and human touch. Her process is transparent and generous, inviting viewers into an exploration of interdependency, labor, and embodied experience while engaging with traditions of ceramics and sculpture. Amidst a resurgence of interest in ceramics within both art and design spheres, Ruais embraces the medium not as mere craft but as a dynamic material that continues to inspire contemporary sculptors seeking a direct, tactile connection to their work.

Before World War II, Paris stood as the vibrant epicenter of the international avant-garde, where artists like Picasso, Brancusi, and Apollinaire thrived alongside pioneering photographers who elevated black-and-white photography to an art form. From Eugene Atget’s hauntingly surreal cityscapes to Man Ray’s inventive, boundary-pushing experiments, this period produced some of the most iconic and influential photographic works. André Kertész’s elegant study of Mondrian’s personal items, Claude Cahun’s challenging and gender-bending self-portraits, and Henri Cartier-Bresson’s intimate scenes of everyday life all embody the spirit of innovation and cultural transformation that marked prewar Paris, capturing its creative energy and profound impact on the history of photography.

Alexander Calder, renowned as one of the greatest American artists of the 20th century and inventor of the iconic mobiles, partnered with the prestigious French porcelain maker Bernardaud in 2014 to create a limited-edition series of plates inspired by six of his most significant mobiles from the 1940s and ‘50s. These exquisite plates capture Calder’s signature blend of elegance and innovation, reflecting his diverse artistic pursuits that spanned from sculptures and jewelry to tapestries and even airplane designs. Today, Calder’s timeless work enjoys renewed attention through record-breaking auction sales and major exhibitions like the upcoming Tate Modern retrospective, solidifying his enduring influence on both collectors and the art world at large.

Sixty-five years ago, photographer Hans Namuth captured the elusive Jackson Pollock in a groundbreaking series of photographs and a short film that revealed the intense physicality behind Pollock’s drip paintings. The iconic 1951 film, featuring Pollock painting on a glass pane for a mesmerizing view of his process, helped launch the Process Art movement and solidified Pollock as the archetype of the tortured artistic genius. With his brooding presence and rebellious spirit, Pollock became one of the first celebrity artists shaped by mass media. Yet, this intimate glimpse into his creative world also hints at the darker toll of fame and artistry, foreshadowing his tragic decline just years later.

Keltie Ferris’s vibrant abstract paintings, characterized by their bright, airbrushed patches and pixel-like marks, evoke the digital age’s luminous, layered visuals while maintaining a deeply physical connection to painting. Recently, Ferris has shifted focus to an intimate, process-driven series of body prints, where she uses her own oil-doused, clothed body as a living brush, creating richly textured self-portraits that are both personal and strikingly present. Inspired by David Hammons’s techniques, these works embody a raw performance, offering a literal imprint of the artist herself. Alongside evolving her painting scale and exploring atmospheric haze through layering spray paint, Ferris balances narratives of digital abstraction with the tactile, historical essence of touch in art. Her work navigates the space between the mechanical and the handmade, past and future, raising questions of identity while reaffirming the vitality and autonomy of her paintings as living entities.

Marc Quinn’s latest exhibition, "The Toxic Sublime" at White Cube in London, marks a striking evolution from his earlier provocative works. Moving away from shock value, Quinn delves into profound existential themes with thoughtful artistry, presenting giant, heavily textured wall hangings inspired by sunrises that slowly reveal intricate details connecting nature and urban life. Complementing these are seven striking stainless steel and concrete sculptures modeled from sea shells, evoking the tension between natural erosion and human intervention. The show invites quiet reflection rather than spectacle, showcasing an artist in his fifties embracing gravitas and complexity in a visually compelling dialogue between the sublime forces of nature and the constructs of modernity.

Conceptual art, defined by Sol LeWitt as prioritizing the idea over the physical creation, revolutionized art by shifting focus from aesthetics to concepts, using mediums like text, found objects, and documentation. From Marcel Duchamp’s provocative “Fountain,” which challenged traditional art by presenting a signed urinal, to René Magritte’s surreal questioning of representation in “The Treachery of Images,” this movement spans a century of innovative thought. Artists like On Kawara reflect on time through date paintings, while John Baldessari’s playful narratives invite us to “look between things.” Works such as Jenny Holzer’s illuminated aphorisms, Sophie Calle’s intimate hotel diary, Felix Gonzalez-Torres’s poignant clock metaphor, and Thomas Demand’s reconstructed scene probe identity, memory, and reality itself. Together, these pieces highlight conceptual art’s enduring power to challenge perceptions and provoke reflection beyond the tangible artwork.

From rising stars to established legends, this curated selection showcases artworks that savvy collectors won’t want to miss. Highlighted are Basim Magdy’s vibrant, thought-provoking blends of photography and painting that illuminate alternative Middle Eastern histories; Rachel Harrison’s quirky yet commanding photographic series inspired by Darwin’s curiosity about human representation; and Bruce Nauman’s mind-bending exploration of perception, poised for a major MoMA retrospective. Also featured is Jesper Just’s immersive neo-noir filmic photography, William Anastasi’s lively conceptual Minimalism with its stormy neural-like scrawls, and Cornelia Parker’s dramatic meteorite-scorched map that grapples with humanity’s fragile place in the universe. Each piece carries a powerful story and investment potential, reflecting the diverse and dynamic world of contemporary art.

Jessica Jackson Hutchins’s art weaves together a rich tapestry of materials and themes, blending delicate ceramics with everyday objects to explore intimacy, the body, and spirituality. After a dynamic chapter living between Portland and Berlin, Hutchins returns with vibrant, boisterous works that challenge traditional notions of painting and sculpture, creating spaces where furniture seemingly wears ceramics and paintings reveal their underlying structures. Her upcoming dual-venue Portland exhibition, “Confessions,” bridges public and private art worlds, reflecting her deep engagement with religious narratives and the everyday, all while embracing the imperfect beauty of domestic life. Through a playful yet earnest lens, Hutchins invites viewers into a contemplative dialogue about presence, vulnerability, and the sacred in the mundane.

Hidden within the vibrant offerings of the inaugural Seattle Art Fair is Gary Hill’s understated video art piece, Liminal Objects #6 [fan and pants], a quietly captivating 3D animation from 1998 that features a rotating hand fan seemingly slicing through trousers. A Seattle-based pioneer in conceptual art and new media since the late 1960s, Hill’s work explores themes of translation, the interplay between language and technology, and pushes the boundaries of video installation through inventive manipulation of electronic devices. Celebrated for his curiosity and early embrace of computer-based art, Hill’s Liminal Objects series melds digital forms into uncanny, nearly believable hybrid images that invite deep reflection. Amid the fair’s flashy contemporary digital displays, Hill’s piece offers a compelling, thoughtful respite that stands as a testament to his enduring influence and innovation in the evolving landscape of electronic art.

New York artist Azikiwe Mohammed masterfully transforms the vibrant chaos of Internet culture into tangible art, weaving together memes, hip-hop icons, and everyday “bad” food into tapestries, commemorative plates, and photographs. Drawing inspiration from digital communities on platforms like Tumblr and Instagram, Mohammed captures the communal language formed through shared symbols and hashtags, such as the #FreeMaxB movement, framing them as modern heraldry. His work blurs the lines between online and offline worlds, celebrating figures like Gucci Mane with Southern-made commemorative plates and retracing photographer Stephen Shore’s journeys through roadside eateries, highlighting food as a cultural marker. Mohammed’s art not only reflects digital life’s language and belonging but physically enshrines the ephemeral spirit of internet communities in striking, tactile forms.

Barbara Hepworth’s sculptures, celebrated in the Tate Britain retrospective "Sculpture for a Modern World," reveal an artist deeply connected to nature and modernism, whose work captures the rhythms of the Cornish coast and the essence of human relationships. From her early “Doves” in 1927 to her final marble pieces in the 1970s, Hepworth’s art evolved through intimate experiences and personal challenges, including motherhood, grief, and the struggle against a male-dominated art world. Her sculptures embody organic forms, emotional tension, and a profound dialogue with landscape, culminating in works that evoke both timeless calm and inner strength.

In his exhibition “Excuse Me!?!...I’m Looking for the ‘Fountain of Youth’” at Greene Naftali, video and performance artist Michael Smith humorously confronts the cultural obsession with youth as he navigates his own middle age. Featuring his Everyman character “Mike,” a mild-mannered, awkward middle-manager who awkwardly dances alongside youthful ballet apprentices, Smith uses satire to explore themes of aging, conformity, and the art world’s bias toward younger talent. The show’s blend of witty videos and mock-chivalric installations highlights the tension between generational expectations and personal identity, playfully critiquing society’s relentless quest for eternal youth against the backdrop of Smith’s own artistic evolution.

In a world where artists wield extraordinary creative powers, the contemporary art scene unfolds like an epic battle between heroes and villains vying for influence and control. From Damien Hirst’s unsettling experiments and Bruce Nauman’s dark provocations to Banksy’s guerrilla art activism and Ai Weiwei’s fearless fight against censorship, these larger-than-life figures shape the fate of art history with dramatic flair. Whether it’s Takashi Murakami rallying troops of fantastical creatures for emerging artists or Jenny Holzer projecting messages of hope across city streets, each player’s unique vision ignites a thrilling clash of ideals and ambitions in the global art arena.

Installation art has reshaped the boundaries of creativity over the past century, offering immersive and provocative experiences that challenge traditional aesthetics. From Christo & Jeanne-Claude’s monumental fabric-wrapped Pont Neuf, which invites viewers to see familiar landmarks anew, to Gordon Matta-Clark’s daring architectural “cuts” that reimagine urban spaces, each piece disrupts conventional forms. Mike Kelley’s unsettling taxonomy of discarded dolls reveals society’s underbelly, while Martin Kippenberger’s eclectic furniture installation playfully envisions a utopian future inspired by Kafka. Yayoi Kusama’s hypnotic polka-dotted mirrored rooms express infinite repetition and personal neurosis, contrasted by Robert Smithson’s raw, site-specific Land art that transforms natural landscapes. Kara Walker’s haunting paper silhouettes confront the brutal complexities of slavery and race, blending beauty with unsettling truths to provoke reflection. Together, these boundary-breaking works exemplify the limitless possibilities and emotional depth of installation art.

Just a short trip from Chelsea, the Hudson Valley reveals a vibrant arts landscape where nature and contemporary creativity intertwine. Renowned spots like Dia Beacon and Storm King are complemented by hidden gems such as Wave Farm, a serene hub for transmission art set on 30 acres, and ‘T’ Space in Rhinebeck, a tranquil venue crafted by architect Steven Holl that hosts celebrated artists like Ai Weiwei and Martin Puryear. The eclectic town of Hudson offers surprises like Henry, a whimsical found-object emporium blending art and antiques, while The School in Kinderhook transforms a historic schoolhouse into a dynamic space for diverse global artists, currently showcasing a major retrospective by Ghanaian legend El Anatsui. Opus 40 in Saugerties stands as a monumental earthwork sculpted with ancient techniques into a sprawling labyrinth of bluestone, and the expansive Omi International Arts Center in Ghent combines a sculpture park and studio residencies, fostering creativity amidst rolling hills. Together, these destinations paint the Hudson Valley as an essential summer pilgrimage for art lovers seeking inspiration beyond the city.

From whimsical cotton candy skies in Marepe’s nostalgic photographs to Berndnaut Smilde’s ethereal indoor clouds that blur reality and illusion, this collection explores the multifaceted allure of clouds through diverse artistic lenses. Featuring evocative landscapes by April Gornik, conceptual installations by Tomás Saraceno, and surreal photo collages by Julião Sarmento, the works capture clouds as symbols of memory, emotion, and transformation. With each artist inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate boundary between nature and imagination, the exhibit reveals how these fleeting formations inspire reflections on place, identity, and the ephemeral beauty that hovers just beyond reach.

As Chelsea undergoes a dramatic transformation with luxury high-rises reshaping the skyline and galleries migrating elsewhere, two compelling summer exhibitions explore the evolving relationship between art and real estate through the medium of wall painting. At Gladstone Gallery, "Hello Walls" revisits conceptual wall art with works by pioneers like Mel Bochner, Sol LeWitt, and Lawrence Weiner, alongside contemporary artists scaling up the tradition in playful and provocative ways. Meanwhile, Andrew Edlin Gallery’s “Anthems for the Mother Earth Goddess” confronts environmental urgency and social issues through site-specific wall paintings slated for destruction as the building is demolished for condos. From Michael Craig-Martin’s oversized everyday objects to Chris Doyle’s apocalyptic Chelsea flood vision and Rigo 23’s socially conscious murals, these shows capture wall painting as a dynamic canvas reflecting both artistic heritage and pressing cultural concerns in a rapidly changing neighborhood.

Over the turbulent 20th century, the human figure in sculpture became a dynamic canvas for artists to explore fragility, strength, and transformation. From Constantin Brancusi’s elemental embrace in *The Kiss*, embodying abstract purity and timeless vitality, to Aristide Maillol’s serene revival of Classical grace in *The Three Nymphs*, the century saw diverse interpretations of the human form. Henry Moore’s *Recumbent Figure* carved nature’s power into solid, rounded shapes, while Alberto Giacometti’s skeletal *Walking Man* hauntingly captured isolation and existential fragility. Dame Elisabeth Frink’s menacing *Goggle Head* evokes modern anxieties with raw intensity, contrasting with Louise Bourgeois’ *Here I Am, Here I Stay*, where tactile materials evoke enduring human presence amidst chaos. Finally, Charles Ray’s hyper-realistic *Family Romance* distorts scale to unsettling effect, challenging notions of family and power. Together, these sculptures reveal a century’s profound dialogue on what it means to be human.

Before Los Angeles became the sprawling, hyped art hub it is today, it was an intimate, gritty scene centered around Chinatown, energized by the trailblazing China Art Objects Galleries. Founded in 1999 by a group of determined artists including Steve Hanson and Giovanni Intra, the gallery fostered a raw, collaborative spirit that propelled L.A.’s multidisciplinary art culture forward. From modest beginnings in a small basement on Chung King Road to becoming the heartbeat of a vibrant, if chaotic, artistic community marked by late-night creativity and wild parties, China Art Objects shaped the city’s art landscape. Despite tragic losses and the eventual migration of galleries to Culver City, the gallery’s story reflects the evolution of L.A.’s art scene—from tight-knit underground circles to a booming, multifaceted ecosystem now attracting collectors and galleries worldwide, all while maintaining roots in community and artistic risk-taking.

The Hirshhorn Museum’s retrospective “Shirin Neshat: Facing History” delves into the rich complexities of the Iranian artist’s photographic and film work, which explores the layered intersections of gender, religion, and cultural identity. With her iconic black-and-white portraits of Iranian women adorned in chadors and inscribed with Persian poetry, Neshat challenges simplistic interpretations by revealing themes of resistance, creativity, and power within social constraints. Her acclaimed series, including “Women of Allah,” “The Book of Kings,” and films like “Turbulent” and “Rapture,” present institutional and gender divisions not just as boundaries but as spaces for nuanced artistic expression and resilient defiance. Through striking dual-channel installations and powerful imagery, Neshat invites viewers to confront history and tradition while contemplating the unresolved questions that shape her personal and cultural narrative.

Sue Stoffel’s Upper West Side apartment is a vibrant hub where art, work, and hospitality beautifully intersect. As a seasoned collector and arts advisor, Stoffel curates a personal and professional space filled with meaningful contemporary works—from a Christo piece that anchors her collection to intricate sculptures by Ernesto Neto and thought-provoking paintings by Peter Dreher and Cynthia Daignault. Her home doubles as an office, gallery, and lively salon venue, fostering intimate connections between artists and collectors. Stoffel’s philosophy emphasizes the emotional and intellectual depth behind each piece, creating a sanctuary where art tells its own story and resonates deeply, all within a subtly elegant, unassuming setting perfect for both reflection and lively gatherings.

Art historian Noah Charney, an expert on art crimes and authenticity, shares his top ten favorite artworks on Artspace, offering fascinating insights into each piece. From Picasso’s frequently forged masterpieces and Richard Serra’s imposing sculptures, to Tracey Emin’s provocative drawings and the optical illusions in Elsie Ferguson’s plaster works, Charney highlights the unique qualities that make these pieces stand out. He explores the rarity and value in Thomas Ruff’s limited-edition photographs, the contested authenticity surrounding a Basquiat door, and the deep personal connection behind Marina Abramovic’s collaboration with Ulay. The list also delves into the mystical allure of George Widener’s magic squares, the striking aesthetics of Andy Warhol’s Red Lenin, and the captivating beauty of Yves Klein’s iconic blue pigment table—each artwork embodying a distinct narrative about art’s power to captivate, deceive, and inspire.

From ancient cave paintings to modern installations, artists have long grappled with depicting animals, reflecting the changing scientific and artistic trends of their times. This selection from *The Art Book* explores diverse approaches, from Jacques-Laurent Agasse’s detailed portrayal of exotic giraffes reflecting 19th-century fascination with far-off lands, to Umberto Boccioni’s dynamic, Futurist depiction of horse and rider alive with motion. George Catlin’s sensitive flamingoes illustrate nature’s fragility amid human threats, while Edward Hicks’s *The Peaceable Kingdom* symbolizes harmonious coexistence inspired by Quaker ideals. In opulent 17th-century Dutch still lifes, Willem Kalf’s meticulous textures evoke luxury and refinement, contrasting with Henri Rousseau’s imaginative jungles bursting with vibrant life and naïve charm. Finally, David Alfaro Siqueiros combines surrealism and political activism in a powerful muralistic scene, challenging viewers to confront deeper social meanings. Together, these artworks reveal shifting perspectives on animals that blend naturalism, symbolism, and imaginative expression across history.

Zoe Leonard’s monumental series *Analogue* (1998-2009), displayed in full at the Museum of Modern Art, poignantly documents the closure of small shops across New York’s Lower East Side, Harlem, and Brooklyn, tracing the afterlife of their wares as they journey to resale markets in Cuba, Mexico, Poland, and Uganda. Captured with a vintage 1940s Rolliflex camera, Leonard’s 412 color and black-and-white prints reveal a delicate interplay between loss and renewal, blending nostalgic homage to disappearing local commerce with a celebration of creativity, resourcefulness, and environmental mindfulness. From bold hand-painted storefront signs to repurposed goods arranged like art, *Analogue* challenges the narrative of obsolescence, showing how these items find new life and meaning across the globe, while subtly reflecting on the fading era of analog photography itself.

From vibrant textile collages capturing tropical sunsets to poignant explorations of survival and power, this selection highlights groundbreaking works from today’s most compelling artists. Featuring Lauren Luloff’s delicate fabric paintings, Jenny Holzer’s impactful text pieces, and General Idea’s powerful AIDS-era commentary, the collection spans a range of media and messages. Meanwhile, Julie Heffernan’s richly allegorical self-portraits, Imi Knoebel’s abstract color studies on plastic, and Jose Dávila’s architecturally inspired glass sculptures round out a roster of smart, evocative art destined to engage both collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Displaying contemporary art in a home requires more than just hanging pieces on walls—it demands a thoughtful integration of architecture and art that respects both the domestic space and the artworks themselves. Chris Stone and David Fox of Stonefox specialize in designing modern living spaces tailored to collectors, working closely with clients like Amy and John Phelan and Mickey and Jeanne Klein to ensure that walls and rooms are crafted around specific pieces in their collections. Their unique approach balances the luxury of a lived-in home with the intellectual impact of contemporary art, challenging the minimalist "museum-like" aesthetic by embedding artworks in intimate, meaningful contexts. Through projects like the Whisper Raum—a gem-inspired architectural retreat—they explore new dimensions of art and design, pushing the boundaries of how art can function socially and visually within homes. As passionate collectors themselves, Stone and Fox emphasize the importance of narrative and surprise in art, fostering an ongoing dialogue between artists, architecture, and everyday life that makes spaces both vibrant and deeply personal.

Porpentine Charity Heartscape stands as a pioneering and provocative figure in avant-garde game design, challenging the male-dominated gaming culture with deeply personal and unconventional works created on the Twine platform. Her games, such as the acclaimed 2012 title *howling dogs*, eschew violent tropes for intensely introspective narratives that explore themes of depression, trauma, and identity through fragmented, poetic storytelling. This groundbreaking approach has earned her both critical acclaim and backlash, reflecting the tension between traditional gaming expectations and the rise of experimental, emotionally resonant interactive fiction. Following *howling dogs*, Porpentine’s 2015 piece *This World Is Not My Home*, co-created with Brenda Neotenomie, offers a more meditative, visually immersive journey filled with affirmations and surreal imagery, signaling a hopeful progression in her exploration of deeply personal, transformative gaming experiences.

The art world has fully embraced Instagram as a vibrant platform for galleries, advisors, critics, and collectors to share their passions, discoveries, and personalities. From Simon de Pury’s jet-setting auctioneer selfies with celebrities to 89plus’s dynamic showcases of post-1989 creators, these key figures offer intimate glimpses into cutting-edge art scenes. Thea Westreich Art Advisory curates exclusive looks at private collections and major fairs, while Daniel Turriani blends expert insights with personal moments. Distinguished critic David Rimanelli revives masterpieces old and new, and Jerry Saltz injects sharp wit and provocative commentary that keeps followers laughing and thinking. Meanwhile, Stefan Simchowitz stirs debate by championing emerging artists and the art-flipping trend. Together, these Instagram tastemakers provide an indispensable, entertaining window into the contemporary art world.

Aura Rosenberg’s art boldly navigates the provocative intersections of childhood and erotic imagery, challenging conventions with a unique blend of humor and critical theory. From her early “Dialectical Porn Rocks” series—where appropriated pornographic images adorn natural stones—to her later paintings revisiting the “Golden Age” of porn, Rosenberg’s work interrogates the cultural contexts and mediated nature of sexuality. Parallel to these explorations, her deeply personal projects like “Berlin Childhood” and “Who Am I? What Am I? Where Am I?” capture intimate moments with her daughter Carmen and Berlin’s urban landscape, interweaving themes from philosopher Walter Benjamin’s writings. These thoughtfully staged photographs, many involving the playful yet complex interaction between children and renowned artists, reveal layers of identity, agency, and cultural memory, making Rosenberg’s oeuvre a compelling reflection on the body, childhood, and the shifting boundaries of art and obscenity.

From the playful irreverence of Gilbert and George’s prankish poses to the intense emotional depth of Vincent van Gogh’s asylum-era self-reflection, self-portraits offer fascinating windows into artists’ psyches across centuries. This vibrant exploration highlights works from masters like Judith Leyster’s intimate Dutch Golden Age portrait, Rembrandt’s haunting late-life introspection, and Cindy Sherman’s subversive photographic narratives that challenge traditional representations of identity. Featuring diverse styles from Neo-Classical honesty in Mengs to Velázquez’s courtly masterpiece Las Meninas, these self-portraits reveal how artists use their own images not just to depict appearance but to convey stories, comment on society, and explore the complexity of selfhood—offering timeless inspiration for anyone looking to capture their own likeness beyond the surface.

Los Angeles-based artist Max Hooper Schneider creates captivating sculptures that blur the boundaries between biology, landscape architecture, and technology, infusing his work with a Post-Internet sensibility that embraces remixing and unexpected juxtapositions. Using innovative materials like his homemade phosphorescent paint and incorporating live animals—from beta fish to leeches—his pieces challenge viewers to rethink the relationship between organic life and art. Whether illuminating a beluga whale skeleton or pairing live leeches with a porcelain wedding cake, Hooper Schneider’s work playfully explores animist ideas and merges science with creativity, inviting us to contemplate where the art truly exists: in our minds or in the subtle lives of the creatures within.

At this year’s exceptional edition of Art Basel, two fascinating trends emerged: contemporary works are increasingly mingling with historical art, while secondary-market galleries are uncovering fresh gems from overlooked corners of art history. Highlights include Francis Picabia’s vibrant “Transparencies” series, Lothar Hempel’s provocative sculptural installations blending epochs and subcultures, and Giacomo Balla’s lyrical Futurist seascape. Terry Haggerty’s neo-formalist canvases, Agnes Martin’s rare early self-portrait, and Ai Weiwei’s painstakingly crafted glass Crystal Cube also stood out. From Egon Schiele’s sensuous drawings to Franz Erhard Walther’s interactive sculptures, Jana Euler’s bold figurations, and Jeff Koons’s provocative “Cat on a Clothesline,” the fair offered a dynamic mix of innovation, history, and dazzling artistry that promises to shape the contemporary art market for years to come.

Alexander S. C. "Sandy" Rower, president of the Calder Foundation, shares his top five favorite works from Art Basel 2015, offering a captivating glimpse into the art world. From Fred Sandback’s innovative use of string to bisect space, to Jack Youngerman’s elegant sunflower linked to Calder, each piece holds a unique story. Rower highlights Julian Stanczak’s mesmerizing Op Art that transcends mere visual trickery, reflecting resilience in the face of adversity. Barbara Hepworth’s sculptures embody a graceful fusion of two and three dimensions, carrying a living presence beyond their form. Lastly, David Smith’s sprayed steel "drawings" evoke mystery and depth with their shadowy silhouettes, pushing the boundaries between drawing and sculpture with photographic allure.

Sarah Morris navigates the complex intersections of architecture, power, and luxury in her vibrant paintings and evocative films, revealing the hidden dynamics behind major cultural and corporate structures. Her latest film, *Strange Magic*, commissioned by LVMH, offers an intimate look at the controversial Fondation Louis Vuitton museum and the mystique of luxury industries, blending behind-the-scenes factory footage with architecture and French cultural symbolism. Morris explores themes of ownership, control, and the elusive nature of taste, all while reflecting on her artistic process that intertwines film and painting as parallel modes of investigation. Drawing on her experiences with figures like Jeff Koons and her immersion in influential art and political theory, Morris crafts works that immerse viewers in systems larger than themselves, inviting contemplation on complicity and the continuous unfolding of creativity within entrenched power structures.

British artist Peter Millard offers a refreshing counterpoint to today's digital animation wave with his hand-drawn, jazz-infused shorts that burst with color, motion, and quirky characters. Eschewing sleek computer-generated imagery, Millard’s work embraces the charm of imperfection through oil pastels and paint, bringing to life impressionistic, rough-edged figures like anthropomorphized fruits that explode, morph, and vocalize in sync with lively jazz soundscapes. His acclaimed 2013 film *Fruit Fruit* exemplifies this vivid sensory experience—where fruit characters stretch and shatter amid vibrant chaos before settling into a contemplative stillness that hints at the deeply tactile roots of animation. Through Millard’s playful yet raw aesthetic, animation regains its handcrafted soul, inviting viewers into a world where spontaneity and creative freedom rule.

Lynda Benglis, a pioneering artist of the late 1960s, revolutionized sculpture and painting by merging liquid industrial materials like polyurethane and latex with the fluid dynamics of water, drawing inspiration from her childhood by the Louisiana waterways and scuba-diving experiences in California. Her groundbreaking Post-Minimalist works, now extended into gravity-defying fountains crafted from bronze, steel, and polyurethane, explore the interplay of natural forces and materiality, evoking everything from volcanic lava flows to nuclear explosions. Exhibited at Storm King Art Center, her fountains embody movement, buoyancy, and illusion, challenging traditional sculptural conventions with a vibrant palette that includes the striking “Pink Ladies.” Benglis’s bold embrace of gesture and form, alongside her provocative 1974 Artforum centerfold ad, reflect her fearless interrogation of gender, power, and artistic boundaries, all while maintaining a playful, irreverent spirit that continues to inspire.

Since its 2014 launch as Sell You Later, rebranded to Art Rank, Carlos Rivera’s platform has stirred waves by quantifying the elusive art market with data-driven clarity. Combining an insider’s gallery experience and financial savvy, Rivera transformed art collecting from guesswork into strategic investing, using variables like social media trends, auction data, and market saturation to classify emerging artists as “Buy Now,” “Sell Now,” or “Liquidate.” Rejecting traditional subjective hype, Art Rank offers unprecedented transparency, empowering collectors worldwide—especially newcomers and Asian markets—with actionable insights. Rivera’s innovative approach challenges long-held notions about art’s value, emphasizing market dynamics and opportunity cost over pure aesthetics, while anticipating increased regulatory scrutiny as the art world’s financial underpinnings come into sharper focus.

Tate Modern’s Agnes Martin retrospective invites viewers to slow down and immerse themselves in the serene, meditative grids that define her work, tracing the evolution of this American abstract painter from her early influences in European modernism and New York’s avant-garde scene to her later, more vibrant compositions created in New Mexico. The exhibition reveals how Martin’s poetic vision and meticulous process—rooted in geometry, repetition, and a deep engagement with painting’s history—unfolded over decades, even as she battled personal challenges like schizophrenia. From delicate pencil grids evoking breath and stillness to bold, colorful canvases, Martin’s art embodies a remarkable journey of restraint, confidence, and quiet power.

From Renaissance masters to modern innovators, self-portraiture has long been a powerful means for artists to explore identity, emotion, and societal roles. This article highlights seven compelling self-portraits that trace the evolution of the genre, from Albrecht Dürer’s reverent status-asserting images and Marie-Louise-Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun’s radiant, idealized depictions, to Gustave Courbet’s raw realism that challenged academic norms. It delves into Francesco Clemente’s expressive neo-Expressionism with symbolic birds, Oskar Kokoschka’s anguished defiance amid political oppression, and Chuck Close’s meticulous photorealism that redefined portraiture using photographic grids. Together, these works offer a rich, vivid journey through how artists have turned their gaze inward over centuries to reveal both themselves and the world around them.

Jen DeNike’s video art weaves her American identity with subtle magical themes, creating evocative pieces that blend the rhythms of suburban life with quiet mysticism. Her work eschews the jarring clichés of video art, favoring simple, symbolic actions captured in natural settings with a minimalist aesthetic. Notable works like "Happy Endings" feature poetic gestures laden with enigmatic meaning, while "Flag Girls" explores patriotism and connection through an intimate ritual around the early American flag. Perhaps her most acclaimed piece, "Wrestling," joyfully captures the rough-and-tumble innocence of teenage play without oversimplifying its emotional complexity, earning a place in MoMA’s permanent collection and underscoring the timeless humanity in her art.