Get ready to dive into the captivating world of art! This week's edition promises to be a thrilling journey through time and creativity, with a dash of controversy and wonder.
Exhibition of the Week:
Step into the past with 'Made in Ancient Egypt', an exhibition that breathes life into ancient Egyptian culture. Prepare to be amazed by wonders that will captivate all generations at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, until April 12th. (https://fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/)
Also Showing:
'Theatre Picasso' is a celebration of the master's genius, where his greatest works are on display, inviting you to a party through his captivating art. Don't miss it at Tate Modern, London, until April 12th. (https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/theatre-picasso)
'Marie Antoinette Style' offers a fairy tale-like experience, but beware of its dark twist. Immerse yourself in this enchanting exhibition at V&A, South Kensington, London, until March 22nd. (https://www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/marie-antoinette)
Wildlife Photography at its Finest:
The Natural History Museum in London presents a stunning display of nature's beauty through the lenses of professional and amateur photographers. 'Wildlife Photographer of the Year' is a must-see until July 12th. (https://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year.html)
Turner's January Breeze:
Experience the refreshing windswept landscapes of J.M.W. Turner's watercolors at the Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh, from January 1st to 31st. (https://www.nationalgalleries.org/exhibition/turner-in-january)
Image of the Week:
Meet Christine Hazell, 88, who, despite progressive memory loss, has become an artistic sensation. In just six months, she's created over 200 drawings, capturing her family and even her dog Kizzy. Her raw talent has taken the art world by storm, with scheduled exhibitions and viral fame on Instagram. Read her inspiring story: (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/dec/16/christine-hazell-tracey-emin-viral-hit)
Art World Insights:
- Maria Balshaw's departure as Tate Director after nine years raises questions. (https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/dec/12/maria-balshaw-tate-director-art-culture)
- LensCulture Street Photography awards showcase unique perspectives, including dogs, drones, and tight trunks. (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2025/dec/18/lensculture-street-photography-awards-in-pictures)
- Artist David Gentleman shares valuable lessons learned from his father. (https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/dec/17/dont-be-disheartened-by-mistakes-10-lessons-my-artist-father-taught-me)
- Coco Chanel's villa hosted art's elite, offering a glimpse into her world. (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/dec/15/coco-chanel-sun-kissed-villa-dali-garbo-stravinsky-churchill)
- Trump's Kennedy Center takeover sparks a warning for UK arts institutions. (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/dec/15/trump-takeover-kennedy-center-warning-uk-arts-institutions)
- Edita Schubert, the Croatian avant-garde artist, used medical instruments to create unique art. (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/dec/19/i-had-to-plunge-the-knife-into-the-canvas-edita-schubert-wielded-her-scalpel-like-other-artists-wield-a-brush)
- David Shrigley collaborates on a dark opera inspired by a TV cookery show. (https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/dec/14/pass-the-spoon-review-david-shrigley-opera-north-howard-assembly-room-leeds)
- The Barbican arts centre in London reveals ambitious plans for its 50th anniversary. (https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/dec/12/barbican-50th-anniversay-ugrade-stippling)
- Taiwan's new library-museum hybrid in Taichung is a stunning architectural marvel. (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/dec/12/taiwan-sanaa-taichung-art-museum)
- Hong Kong's dissident artists defy the crackdown, keeping their vibrant art scene alive. (https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/dec/15/hong-kong-mixtape-review-dissident-artists-keep-hope-alive-in-the-face-of-chinas-crackdown)
Masterpiece of the Week:
'The Nativity, at Night, After Hugo van der Goes' is a captivating painting, likely a copy of the lost original by the Flemish master. It portrays the birth of Christ with tiny angels and a merchant couple, set against a winter night. Van der Goes' unique style, with its sweetness and intensity, is also seen in his 'Adoration of the Shepherds' at the Uffizi, Florence. But his genius came at a price, as he struggled with fame, guilt, and mental health. Van Gogh, a later artist, was even haunted by Van der Goes' madness. Despite this, his art brings peace and hope, especially in the midst of winter.
Stay Connected:
Subscribe to our Art Weekly newsletter to stay updated on the latest art and design news. Sign up here: (https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2015/oct/19/sign-up-to-the-art-weekly-email)
Join the Conversation:
We'd love to hear your thoughts! Email us at newsletters@theguardian.com with any questions or comments about our newsletters. And here's a thought: Do you think art institutions should be more cautious about their leadership changes? Share your opinions below!
