Results for: Contemporary art

The 60th La Biennale di Venezia marked the return of the Philippines to the prestigious art exhibition, showcasing the country’s national pavilion curated by Carlos Quijon Jr. and artist Mark Salvatus, entitled “Sa kabila ng tabing lamang sa panahong ito/Waiting just behind the curtain of this age.” Inspired by the enigmatic figure of Hermano Puli, a lay priest and mystic who led pilgrimages on the slopes of Mt. Banahaw, the pavilion transported visitors to the mystical atmosphere of the mountain, featuring large fiberglass boulders draped in white curtains, a soundscape capturing the natural music of the mountains, and brass instruments protruding from the rocks like mutant plants. Salvatus’s work aimed to reflect the entanglement of imagination, beliefs, and persistence of Filipinos, echoing Puli’s unfinished revolution and the country’s resilience in rebuilding its pavilions after a long absence from the Biennale.

The Philippe Bettan Gallery in Lyon, France presents an exhibition showcasing the captivating works of Iranian painter Elham Etemadi. Etemadi’s paintings draw inspiration from her homeland’s vibrant colors and traditional markets, reflecting her subconscious connection to its culture and events. Her layered techniques and dynamic compositions explore themes of identity, storytelling, and the influence of her Persian heritage.

Samantha Moyer and Eddie Martinez, a married couple, are both visual artists showcasing their distinct styles in solo exhibitions at the Parrish Art Museum. Moyer’s large-scale stone sculptures and sculptural paintings blend abstract and figurative elements, creating a precise and classical presence. Martinez’s energetic paintings, often incorporating collage, exude a spontaneous and whimsical quality reminiscent of Abstract Expressionism and Philip Guston’s playful figuration. Their works reflect their individual artistic journeys shaped by their nomadic backgrounds and personal experiences.

Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen has announced a collaboration with leading Chinese contemporary photographer and visual artist Chen Man to showcase a curated collection of her photographs in the hotel’s LIAN Lounge. Following an exclusive dinner at The Gallery celebrating Chen Man’s inaugural exhibition at the Shenzhen Art Museum, the hotel is proud to host this display of her artistic talent. This collaboration further reinforces the strong relationship between Mandarin Oriental and the art world, providing guests with the opportunity to appreciate unique and captivating artworks during their stay.

Renowned art critic Richard Vine delved into the life and work of renowned Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming in his recent lecture, shedding light on Liu’s artistic transition, influences, and significant impact. Vine analyzed Liu’s evolution from Socialist Realism to a more introspective style, reflecting the tumultuous socio-political landscape of his time, including the Cultural Revolution. Through meticulous craftsmanship and a fusion of traditional Chinese motifs and contemporary perspectives, Liu’s sculptures embody a distinctive blend of past and present, bridging cultural gaps.

Golden, Colorado, is experiencing a resurgence as a vibrant arts destination, with significant investments transforming historic downtown buildings into multi-million-dollar art centers. Spearheading this movement is the Foothills Art Center (FAC), which has recently unveiled two renovated historic buildings that aim to enrich the local cultural landscape.

Dia Beacon, renowned for its contemporary art exhibitions, marked the Dia Art Foundation’s 50th anniversary with a glamorous event in partnership with Bottega Veneta. Attendees gathered at the museum to preview new installations by Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Meg Webster, and others, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, mimosas, and performances inspired by the artwork. The evening showcased the creative spirit of Dia Beacon and celebrated the foundation’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge art from around the world.

Portugal celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Carnation Revolution with a festival inspired by Luis Buñuel’s film ‘Phantom of Liberty’. The Anozero Biennale of Contemporary Art examines revolutionary movements and themes of liberty through the lens of surrealism. Artists from various countries will present their works in response to the curatorial question of how contemporary art challenges concepts of freedom and revolution.

Art Survivors, a solo exhibition by Hong Kong-based artist Mak2, invites you on a surreal journey through an interactive FPS zombie game and thought-provoking canvas works. Opening on May 4 at DE SARTHE Gallery, the exhibition explores the competitive and hierarchical dynamics of the art world with a satirical twist. Visitors will encounter an AI-generated video, a triptych blending domestic bliss with the zombie apocalypse, and a centerpiece interactive game where they navigate an art fair overrun by zombies. Through humor and satire, Mak2 challenges notions of security and escapism, emphasizing life’s unpredictability amidst technological advancement.

This year’s Turner Prize, a prestigious contemporary creative competition in Britain, has announced its shortlist of four artists. The nominees include Pio Abad, Claudette Johnson, Jasleen Kaur, and Delaine Le Bas. Their works range from traditional drawing to more eccentric installations. Among the nominees is a red Ford Escort Cabriolet XR3i topped with a giant doily. The Turner Prize has been awarded to renowned artists such as Gilbert & George, Damien Hirst, Sir Anthony Gormley, and Tracy Emin. As the prize reaches its 40th anniversary, questions arise about its continued relevance and the health of London’s post-COVID arts scene.