arrow_back Back to all stories

person The New York Times

newspaper New York Times Art article 26 articles

James McNeill Whistler at Tate Britain: The Fleeting Nature of Light, and of Life

Tate Britain is hosting a major exhibition of James McNeill Whistler, exploring his mastery of light and atmosphere across paintings, etchings, and pastels. The show traces Whistler's career from his early realist works to his iconic nocturnes and portraits, emphasizing his radical approach to composition and color.

A Panorama of Design during the NYCxDesign Festival

The article provides a broad overview of the NYCxDesign Festival, highlighting notable news, product launches, and events taking place across New York City during the design festival. It covers a range of design-related activities, from exhibitions and product debuts to talks and installations, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the citywide celebration of design.

George Herms Dies at 90; Turned Castoff Objects Into Art

George Herms, the California artist who transformed discarded objects into evocative assemblages, has died at age 90. Known for his poetic, often whimsical sculptures made from rusted tools, old photographs, and other found materials, Herms was a central figure in the West Coast assemblage movement that emerged in the 1960s. His work bridged Beat-era spontaneity with a deeply personal, tactile approach to art-making, earning him a devoted following and exhibitions at major institutions.

The Met Makes a Statement With 9 New Mannequin Bodies

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has introduced nine new mannequin bodies for its costume displays, replacing older models to better showcase fashion exhibitions. The new mannequins feature more diverse and realistic body shapes, including different skin tones and poses, aiming to modernize the museum's presentation of historical and contemporary garments.

Can the Costume Institute Survive Without the Met Gala?

The New York Times examines whether the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art can sustain its operations and influence without the Met Gala, its annual fundraising gala that generates millions of dollars and global media attention. The article explores the financial and cultural dependency of the institute on the star-studded event, which has become a major pop culture phenomenon, and considers alternative funding models and programming strategies that could ensure its future.

Michelangelo and Rodin: Finding the Living Spirit in Stone

The New York Times article examines the artistic kinship between Michelangelo and Auguste Rodin, focusing on how both sculptors sought to animate stone with a sense of living spirit and emotional intensity. It explores their shared techniques, such as leaving surfaces unfinished to suggest movement and inner life, and highlights key works including Michelangelo's "Slaves" and Rodin's "The Gates of Hell."

7 ‘Body Types’ in the Met’s ‘Costume Art’ Fashion Exhibition

The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute has announced its upcoming spring exhibition, titled '7 Body Types,' which will explore fashion through the lens of diverse physical forms. The show will feature garments designed for seven distinct body types, challenging traditional fashion norms and highlighting inclusivity in design. Curated by Andrew Bolton, the exhibition draws from the museum's extensive collection and includes works from contemporary designers.

How the Brothers Behind Manhattan’s Aicon Art Gallery Found Themselves in Infinite Feuds

The New York Times reports on the ongoing legal and personal disputes between the brothers who co-founded Manhattan’s Aicon Art Gallery, which specializes in modern and contemporary South Asian art. The article details how sibling rivalry and disagreements over business decisions have led to a series of lawsuits and fractured relationships, threatening the gallery's stability and reputation.

Group Efforts Succeed During Milan Design Week

Milan Design Week has become a primary stage for high-profile creative collaborations, where independent designers and major brands pool resources to debut experimental works. These partnerships range from limited-edition furniture collections to immersive installations, highlighting a shift toward collective production in the design industry.

At Milan Design Week, Function and Form Take on New Meanings

Milan Design Week has transformed the Italian city into a sprawling showcase of avant-garde furniture and experimental objects. This year's highlights include whimsical, kinetic installations such as a spinning Christmas tree and sculptural tables designed to mimic the organic forms of flowers, pushing the boundaries between utilitarian furniture and fine art.

Vintage Designs Take on New Lives at Milan Design Week

Milan Design Week is showcasing a significant trend of reviving mid-century furniture classics, featuring prominent reissues such as a 1950s table by Carlo Mollino and a 1960s lamp by Carlo Nason. These historical designs are being reintroduced to contemporary audiences through the annual festival, highlighting a bridge between mid-century aesthetics and modern production.

At Milan Design Week, Creative Seating Brings Fresh Ideas to the Table

Milan Design Week has unveiled a series of innovative seating concepts that challenge traditional forms of furniture. Highlighting the intersection of sculpture and utility, the showcase features standout pieces including a crisp, minimalist couch, a monolithic chair, and a playful pouf, all of which demonstrate how contemporary designers are rethinking the ergonomics and aesthetics of reclining.

Free and Pay What You Wish in N.Y.C.: Museums, Movies and More

The article details a wide array of cultural institutions and events in New York City that offer free admission or operate on a "pay-what-you-wish" model. It lists specific days and times for museums, movie screenings, and other attractions where visitors can access culture without a fixed ticket price.

The Phillies Owner’s Other Superstars

John Middleton, the billionaire owner of the Philadelphia Phillies, is channeling his competitive drive into the acquisition of 19th-century American masterpieces. His private collection, which features prominent works by Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Eakins, has quietly become one of the most significant of its kind in the United States. Middleton’s approach to collecting mirrors his sports management style, focusing on "blue-chip" historical significance and technical mastery.

An Art Museum Has Evolved Along With Its Neighborhood

The Queens Museum is undergoing a significant transformation to better serve its diverse local community, moving away from traditional elitist museum models. Under the leadership of director Sally Tallant, the institution has integrated social services, including a food pantry and community organizing spaces, directly into its operational fabric while maintaining a rigorous contemporary art program.

The Museums That Helped Power Atlanta’s Rise Are Still Pushing Ahead

Atlanta’s cultural landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as its major museums spearhead ambitious expansions and programming shifts. Institutions like the High Museum of Art, the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art, and the Atlanta Contemporary are leveraging the city's economic growth and its status as a hub for Black culture to redefine their roles within the community. These developments include physical renovations, record-breaking acquisitions, and a renewed focus on local and diverse artistic voices.

What’s That Musky Aroma at the New Museum?

The New Museum in New York has unveiled a sensory-driven installation that utilizes scent as a primary medium, challenging the traditional ocular-centric experience of contemporary art spaces. Visitors are greeted by a distinct, musky aroma that permeates the galleries, part of a curated effort to explore the intersection of olfaction, memory, and physical space.

Hoffman Center for the Arts Announces April Gallery Exhibition April 2–25, Opening Reception April 4th

The Hoffman Center for the Arts has scheduled a gallery exhibition to run from April 2nd through April 25th. An opening reception for the public is planned for April 4th.

A Painter Faces His Biggest Show, and the Truth About Success

Hurvin Anderson is preparing for a major retrospective of his work at Tate Britain, a significant milestone in his career. Despite this achievement, the artist expresses a complex and uncertain relationship with his own success, reflecting on his journey and the meaning of recognition.

A Panorama of Reimagined Designs

A Panorama of Reimagined Designs

An Artist of Caped Crusaders Emerges From the Shadows

The New York Times profiles a previously overlooked or emerging artist whose work focuses on the iconography of 'caped crusaders' and superhero mythology. The feature explores the artist's journey from the periphery of the art world to a position of critical visibility, highlighting their unique aesthetic approach to pop culture figures.

Art Gallery Shows to See in February

New York City’s gallery scene this February features a diverse array of exhibitions ranging from historical rediscoveries to contemporary explorations. Key highlights include solo presentations of emerging voices and established figures across Chelsea, the Upper East Side, and Tribeca, offering a curated look at the current pulse of the commercial art world.

Texas University Closes Exhibition With Anti-ICE Artwork

The University of Texas at Austin abruptly closed an exhibition at its Visual Arts Center after a single day because it included a piece critical of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The artwork, a neon sign reading "Fuck ICE" by artist Tammie Rubin, was part of a group show curated by the university's own art faculty. The administration cited concerns about the work's "vulgarity" and potential to distract from the university's educational mission as reasons for the closure.

Christie’s to Auction 3 of Agnes Gund’s Art Jewels

Christie's will auction three significant pieces of jewelry from the collection of philanthropist and art collector Agnes Gund. The sale includes a 1969 brooch by Alexander Calder, a 1973 necklace by Anni Albers, and a 1970s bracelet by Louise Nevelson, all artists whose primary work is in other mediums. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Gund's philanthropic organization, the Art for Justice Fund.

Art Gallery Shows to See in January

The New York Times has published a curated list of recommended art gallery exhibitions opening in January. The article serves as a guide for viewers, highlighting specific shows across various commercial galleries that are deemed noteworthy for the month.

9 Art Shows to See Before They Close This Winter

The New York Times has published a curated list of nine art exhibitions across the United States that are closing this winter, urging readers to visit before they end. The shows range from major museum retrospectives to smaller gallery presentations, covering a variety of artists and themes.

Five Rising Contemporary Artists You Should Know

The New York Times has published a feature highlighting five emerging contemporary artists who are gaining recognition in the art world. The article profiles each artist's background, creative practice, and recent achievements, offering readers an introduction to new voices in visual art.

Surrealism at 100 Sprawls and Seduces in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Museum of Art has opened a major exhibition titled "Surrealism at 100," marking the centennial of the Surrealist movement. The show brings together a vast array of works from the movement's key figures, including Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, and Max Ernst, alongside lesser-known artists, aiming to capture the full breadth and subversive spirit of Surrealism across painting, sculpture, photography, and film.

Art Gallery Shows to See in December

The New York Times has published a curated list of art gallery shows to see in December, highlighting notable exhibitions across various cities. The article provides recommendations for viewers seeking contemporary and modern art during the holiday season, featuring a range of galleries and artists.

Art on the Wall That Echoes Protests From the Streets

The New York Times article explores how contemporary artists are translating the energy and imagery of street protests into gallery and museum exhibitions. It highlights specific works that incorporate protest signs, slogans, and visual motifs from recent social movements, examining how these pieces retain their political urgency when removed from the streets and placed in institutional spaces.

Exhibition Highlights Jewelry by 45 Female Artists

The Museum of Applied Arts Cologne (MAKK) in Germany is presenting an exhibition titled “From Louise Bourgeois to Yoko Ono: Jewellery by Female Artists,” featuring 101 pieces of jewelry created by 45 female artists. The show, which opened November 11 and runs through April 26, highlights works by well-known figures such as Yoko Ono and Louise Bourgeois, including Ono's yellow and white gold ring shaped like a vinyl disc inscribed with “Imagine Peace” and Bourgeois’ gold spider brooch and silver shackle neckpiece. The exhibition was curated by Lena Hoppe in collaboration with museum director Petra Hesse, and an accompanying book edited by the curators will be published by Arnoldsche Art Publishers in February 2026.

Best Art of 2025

The New York Times has published its annual roundup titled "Best Art of 2025," highlighting the most significant artworks, exhibitions, and artistic achievements of the year. The article curates a selection of standout pieces and shows that defined the visual art landscape in 2025, as chosen by the newspaper's critics and editors.

In Her 90s, a Painter Finally Confronts Her Nazi Trauma

The New York Times profiles a painter in her 90s who has finally begun to address the trauma she experienced during the Nazi era through her artwork. The article details how she survived persecution and displacement as a child under Nazi rule, and how for decades she avoided directly depicting those experiences in her paintings. Now, late in life, she is creating works that confront her past, using art as a means of processing long-suppressed memories and emotions.

On the Eve of Art Basel Miami Beach, a Case of the Jitters

The New York Times reports that as Art Basel Miami Beach approaches, dealers and collectors are experiencing a palpable sense of anxiety. The article captures a mood of uncertainty in the art market, with gallerists expressing concerns about slower sales, shifting collector priorities, and the broader economic climate affecting the high-end art trade. Interviews with key figures reveal a cautious atmosphere ahead of one of the year's most important art fairs.

A Rare Collection of Dutch Old Masters Gets Its First U.S. Outing

A rare collection of Dutch Old Masters, previously held in a private European collection, is making its first-ever U.S. debut at an American museum. The exhibition brings together a selection of 17th-century paintings, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch Golden Age artists, offering a unique glimpse into a collection that has rarely been seen by the public.

Art Gallery Shows to See in November

The New York Times has published a curated list of art gallery shows to see in November, highlighting notable exhibitions across various cities. The article features a selection of gallery presentations, likely including emerging and established artists, with details on locations, dates, and thematic focuses. It serves as a guide for art enthusiasts looking to explore new works during the month.

June Leaf Made Art Like a Mad Scientist, a Dancer, an Aviator and an Archer

The New York Times profiles artist June Leaf, whose multidisciplinary practice blended elements of science, dance, aviation, and archery. The article explores her unconventional approach to art-making, which defied easy categorization and drew from a wide range of influences and techniques.

This Washington Museum Sold Some of Its Art. But at What Cost?

The New York Times reports that a Washington museum has sold off some of its art collection, raising questions about the financial and ethical costs of such a decision. The article details the sale, likely involving deaccessioned works, and explores the motivations behind it, such as funding operational expenses or new acquisitions.

French Ideas, Made in the U.S.A.

The New York Times article 'French Ideas, Made in the U.S.A.' explores how French artistic and intellectual concepts have been adapted and reinterpreted in the United States, often losing their original context or gaining new meanings. It examines specific examples from art, design, and philosophy, tracing how French movements like Impressionism, Surrealism, and structuralism were imported, commercialized, or transformed by American institutions, collectors, and artists.

In a Billionaire’s Playground, Six Artworks Could Predict the Market

The New York Times reports on a closely watched auction at Christie's in Palm Beach, where six high-value artworks from a billionaire's collection are expected to set market benchmarks. The sale, taking place in the exclusive playground of the ultra-wealthy, features works by artists such as Basquiat and Richter, and is seen as a barometer for the current state of the art market amid economic uncertainty.

Night of Modern Art History, Night of Spectacle at Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s held a high-profile evening auction featuring major works of modern art, drawing significant attention from collectors and the art world. The event was characterized by record-breaking bids and a theatrical atmosphere, with several iconic pieces selling for tens of millions of dollars, underscoring the enduring appeal of blue-chip modern masters.

5 Apps That Will Make You Love Art Galleries

The New York Times has published an article titled "5 Apps That Will Make You Love Art Galleries," which highlights five mobile applications designed to enhance the experience of visiting art galleries. These apps likely offer features such as augmented reality, audio guides, or curated recommendations to help users engage more deeply with artworks and exhibitions.

Harlem’s Remarkable New Studio Museum Redefines 125th Street

The Studio Museum in Harlem has opened a striking new building on 125th Street, designed by Adjaye Associates. The museum, long a cornerstone of the neighborhood, now boasts expanded gallery spaces, a sculpture garden, and improved facilities for its artist-in-residence program, marking a major physical and symbolic transformation for the institution.

If You Could Design Any Museum Exhibition, What Would It Be?

The New York Times poses a hypothetical question to several prominent figures in the art world: if they could design any museum exhibition, what would it be? The article features responses from artists, curators, and critics who describe their dream shows, ranging from a survey of overlooked female abstract expressionists to a retrospective of a fictional artist. Each contributor outlines a concept, the venue they would choose, and the rationale behind their curatorial vision.

What to See in Galleries in October

The New York Times has published a guide titled "What to See in Galleries in October," offering readers a curated selection of gallery exhibitions to visit during the month. The article likely highlights notable shows across various cities, featuring both emerging and established artists, and provides practical information for art enthusiasts planning their gallery visits.

She Sees Beauty in Black Men at Work. She Won’t Apologize for That.

The New York Times profiles an artist who creates works celebrating Black men in labor, depicting them with dignity and strength. The artist refuses to apologize for her focus, which she sees as a corrective to historical erasure and negative stereotypes.

Where Private Fortunes Treat the Public to Sumptuous Art

The New York Times article explores the growing trend of private collectors and foundations establishing their own museums to showcase their art collections to the public. These institutions, often funded by immense private fortunes, offer lavish exhibition spaces and high-profile shows that rival traditional public museums, blurring the lines between private ownership and public cultural access.

The Art Prodigies of the Nirvana Era Look Back on the ’90s

The New York Times article features a group of artists who emerged as prodigies during the 1990s, reflecting on their formative years and the cultural landscape of the Nirvana era. These artists, now established figures, discuss how the grunge movement, shifting social dynamics, and the art world of the '90s shaped their early careers and creative identities.

China Institute Gallery Turns a Setback Into an ‘Urgent’ Contemporary Showcase

China Institute Gallery in New York has transformed a logistical setback into an opportunity, mounting an urgent contemporary art exhibition that showcases works by Chinese and Chinese American artists. The show, organized on short notice after a previously planned exhibition fell through, features a range of pieces addressing themes of identity, diaspora, and cultural heritage, reflecting the gallery's pivot toward more current and pressing artistic conversations.

Saif Azzuz Explores Water, Fire and Family in the Bayou and the Bay

Saif Azzuz, an artist of Libyan and Yurok heritage, presents a new body of work that intertwines themes of water, fire, and family, drawing from his experiences in both the Louisiana Bayou and the San Francisco Bay. The article, published by The New York Times, explores how Azzuz's mixed Indigenous and North African background informs his artistic practice, blending personal history with environmental and cultural narratives.