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Essential Summer Highlights: 20 Must-See Art Events

As highlighted in the latest edition of Art in America, the art scene is buzzing with exciting events this summer that you won't want to miss. Here's a curated selection of noteworthy exhibitions and ...

Essential Summer Highlights: 20 Must-See Art Events

As highlighted in the latest edition of Art in America, the art scene is buzzing with exciting events this summer that you won't want to miss. Here's a curated selection of noteworthy exhibitions and performances across the globe.

  • El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego at the Metropolitan Opera

    This opera explores the passionate relationship between Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, featuring music by Gabriela Lena Frank. The narrative unfolds on the Day of the Dead, imagining Kahlo's reunion with Rivera from the underworld. Dates: May 14-June 5

  • "Costume Art" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

    This inaugural exhibition in a new gallery space showcases around 400 pieces from the Met's collection, connecting garments with art to highlight the significance of the dressed body. End Date: Jan. 10

  • Björk at the National Gallery of Iceland

    In her hometown of Reykjavik, Björk presents "echolalia," featuring immersive installations inspired by her upcoming album and a tribute to her late mother, an environmental activist. Dates: May 30-Sept. 19

  • High Waters: An Oral History of the Venice Biennale

    This book offers insights into the Venice Biennale through interviews with curators, providing a behind-the-scenes look at one of the art world's most prestigious events. Available: May

  • Raven Halfmoon at Ballroom Marfa

    Raven Halfmoon's sculptures honor her Caddo Nation heritage, with an exhibition surveying five years of her work, including new pieces reflecting on West Texas. End Date: Oct. 11

  • Pierre Huyghe at Fondation Beyeler Basel

    This major exhibition features recent works and new commissions, including a site-specific installation that will create a dynamic interaction with the gallery space. Dates: May 24-Sept. 13

  • James McNeill Whistler at Tate Britain

    A comprehensive retrospective of Whistler's work will showcase his complexity as an artist, including his famous portrait of his mother. Dates: May 21-Sept. 27

  • Medina Triennial

    Opening this summer, the inaugural Medina Triennial will feature site-specific projects that celebrate the Erie Canal's engineering marvels. Dates: June 6-Sept. 7

  • "Gen X: Tales from the Forgotten Generation" at Deste Foundation Athens

    This exhibition highlights artists born between 1960 and 1980 who shaped the cultural transition from analog to digital. Dates: June 11-Nov. 26

  • Art Basel

    The flagship art fair returns with 290 galleries, showcasing monumental works and innovative presentations throughout the city. Dates: June 18-21

  • Modernism's Lesbian Icons in Novel Form

    Two novels inspired by modernist icons Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein will be released, celebrating their influential lives. Available: June

  • Obama Presidential Center

    Opening on Chicago's South Side, this center will feature commissioned artworks by prominent artists, aiming to create a vibrant cultural space. Opening: June 18

  • Edgar Arceneaux at Tinworks Art

    This theatrical production will connect the stories of Edmonia Lewis and her brother Samuel, highlighting their contributions to art history. Performance: June 20-21

  • Alan Ruiz at Dia Bridgehampton

    Ruiz's installation responds to Dan Flavin's work, drawing attention to the history of labor in the East End of Long Island. Opening: June 26

  • Marilou Schultz at Hessel Museum of Art

    This exhibition surveys Schultz's work, which connects historical narratives of labor and technology in Navajo Nation. Dates: June 27-Nov. 29

  • Tony Oursler at Tokyo Node

    Featuring over 3,000 works, this survey includes the world premiere of a collaboration with David Bowie, showcasing Oursler's innovative vision. Dates: July 3-Sept. 27

  • 250th Anniversary Shows

    Various museums will celebrate the U.S. anniversary with exhibitions reflecting on the nation's history and culture. Ongoing

  • AIR Festival

    This festival will feature talks and performances centered on the theme "Figures in a Landscape," emphasizing contemporary artistic practices. Dates: July 27-31

  • John Berger Bonanza

    A series of reissues and a new biography will highlight the life and influence of the celebrated critic John Berger. Available: September

  • Brick-and-Mortar Aperture

    Aperture's new headquarters will host exhibitions and events celebrating the artistic spirit of New York City. Opening: July

These events not only celebrate artistic creativity but also foster community engagement and cultural dialogue, paving the way for a vibrant future in the art world.


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