THE MAGAZINE
The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, through 28 July 2024
Who determines which artists take a central place in history, and which artists are marginalised or erased from our cultural memory? New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art is currently showing a groundbreaking exhibition that seeks to reposition the Harlem Renaissance, the first African American-led movement of modern art, as a central moment in American art and international modernism.
Finding Unity Amidst Conflict: The Intersection of Art and Human Rights
Classic and contemporary artists have used compelling approaches to break down human rights issues so audiences can better understand them. Their work becomes a form of activism, embodying the potential for growth and change.
Emotions and Trauma: Through the Eyes of Art
It’s mental health awareness month in the US. Many famous artists have used their art to confront their own mental health challenges. Find about the art and struggles of Vincent van Gogh, Louise Bourgeois and Yayoi Kusama.
No Halos at the Dinner Table: The Human Side of Leonardo’s “The Last Supper”
The Jewish holiday of Passover will begin in a few days. Did you know that Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” may have depicted a Passover Seder? Leonardo’s mural contains overlapping stories that not only show the intersection of the earthly and divine, but capture the depths of being a human.
Spring Vibes!
Sometimes, an image says more than words. Spring is in the air!
Lights of Spiritual Growth: Ramadan Lanterns
We are right in the middle of Ramadan. One of Ramadan’s most beautiful and symbolic objects are the Ramadan lanterns, also known as “fanous” in Arabic. Learn more about the lanterns’ special symbolism – and take a moment to reflect upon yourself and what you are grateful for.
Pablo Picasso in Music: “Formes en l’air” by Artur Lourié
How can you possibly read this music score? Arthur Lourié’s “Formes en l’air” (1915) is dedicated to Pablo Picasso, an artist Lourié admired for his artistic boldness. It’s a powerful interpretation of Picasso’s Cubist paintings in sound.
Let’s Get Corny: Grant Wood’s Portrait of Rural America
Grant Wood’s iconic painting “American Gothic” encompasses more than just a man and a woman, a pitchfork, and a Gothic window. It is a portrait of American history– of pioneer spirit, resilience, and a yearning for a place called home. But who are these two miserable looking people?
A Kiss for Valentine’s Day
Today is Valentine's Day, and we have a painting to help you get in the mood for love: Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss (1907-1908). If you want to know more about this beautiful painting you are in the right place!
From the Eyes of a Young Photographer: Berk Kır, “Extimacy,” Merdiven Art Space, Istanbul, 5-31 January 2024
Berk Kır, 26, is a photography artist based in Istanbul, Turkey. GUP (Guide to Unique Photography) lists Berk among Europe's 150 Emerging Talents. Find out more about Berk’s current exhibition “Extimacy” and about his creative process: “I was using my camera as a tool to explore my surroundings and over time I can say that this practice evolved into me looking outside to discover myself.”
Guest Artist: Ginevra Mastrocola, 19, Brera Academy of Fine Arts, Milan
Ever felt that you are not good enough? Explore this paralysing emotion with our guest artist Ginevra Mastrocola from the Brera Academy, Milan.
Monet in Winter
Are you ready to go back in time and to visit some small, snow covered French towns with Claude Monet? If yes, you are in the right place. Grab your favourite warm drink and let’s get started.
The Most Perfect Holiday Painting: Antoine Vollon’s “Mound of Butter”
A mound of butter as perfect holiday painting? Read on for more!
Street Artist JR at the Paris Opera: Back to the Cave
What happens when street artist JR, choreographer Damien Jalet and composer Thomas Bangalter collaborate on a show on the scaffolding covering the iconic Palais Garnier, the old building of the Paris Opera that is currently being restored? Hint: think human bats in Chanel.
AI as an Artifical Brush: Refik Anadol
What is a painting? The Turkish-American artist Refik Anadol has been challenging our preconceptions with his use of AI. Anadol and his technology create an artificial dream world, making him the Salvador Dalí of the digital age.
In Defense of Dogs Playing Poker
Kitsch is a bit of a dirty word in the art world – no artist wants to make it, and no critic wants to love it. But many people do. People who are exhausted from trying to decipher spatters and squares; people who want to look at things that amuse them, things they understand. Which brings us to the most famous example of kitsch, some may even say the Mona Lisa of kitsch: C. M. Coolidge’s Dogs Playing Poker from 1903.
Guest Artist: Sara Cancelliere, Accademia di Brera, Milan, Italy
Check out the work of our guest artist Sara Cancelliere, Accademia di Brera, Milan.
Happy Birthday, Pablo Picasso!
October is not only the month of Halloween and gloomy weather. It is also the month of the renowned painter and artist Pablo Picasso. The Spanish painter was born on 25 October 1881. Here are five surprising facts about the brilliant artist.
A Glimpse of Autumn
Autumn is right around the corner. Start this beautiful season with two beautiful paintings. Read on for more!
Discovering the Soul of West Asia: The Collection of the Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah
Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi has built one of the most gender-balanced and diverse collections of modern and contemporary Arab art. The Barjeel Art Foundation is making this collection as accessible as possible: most of it can be viewed online. Not sure where to start? Read the background stories to some of these astonishing paintings.