On a day that seemed random in 1997, Bill Armstrong turned the focus ring on his camera to infinity and took a photograph. By that time, he had been a photographer for over 20 years, creating found collages made up of torn posters that he’d collected from the streets. This new image, however, was different from anything he had previously […]
Gloria Steinem, journalist, advocate for women’s rights, New York City, 2015. (Photo: Annie Leibovitz) For Annie Leibovitz, there may be no subject as richly rewarding as women. “Women are a work in progress,” the photographer stated in a 2016 interview with the New York Times. “I’ll be capturing these photographs until my last breath.” If the task of photographing women […]
Cat Dawson’s new book, “Monumental: How a New Generation of Artists Is Shaping the Memorial Landscape,” explores the evolving nature of monuments. By analyzing contemporary artworks like Kara Walker’s “A Subtlety” and Lauren Halsey’s “the eastside of south central los angeles hieroglyph prototype architecture (I),” Dawson reveals how these works, from 2014 to 2023, challenge traditional monumentality by emphasizing histories […]
**Welcome to the 313th installment of A View From the Easel** In this edition, we journey into the unique and intimate workspaces where artists find inspiration amidst the everyday hum of life. Whether it’s painting to the rhythm of household chores or engaging with ancestral spirits, each studio offers a glimpse into the personal world of creativity. **Mieke Marple, Los […]
This week’s art world news brings a flurry of updates and significant milestones across the globe. Alma Allen has been chosen to represent the United States at the 2026 Venice Biennale after overcoming several challenges, with plans to explore ‘elevation’ as a physical form. The Philadelphia Art Museum welcomes Daniel Weiss as its new director amidst internal controversies, including a […]
Japan captivates the imagination of travelers globally, and those lucky enough to explore it frequently find themselves awestruck by its stunning allure. From the cherry blossom season and zen gardens to ancient shrines and Mount Fuji, there is an abundance to discover. Yet, Japan’s enchantment lies not only in its visual splendor—it is also found in the sounds that permeate […]
**Gare de Mons: The Latest Architectural Wonder by Santiago Calatrava** The city of Mons in Belgium recently celebrated the grand unveiling of its new train station, the Gare de Mons, crafted by the illustrious Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. This architectural wonder, nearly twenty years in development, has reshaped the city’s skyline with its bold and graceful design. **A Monumental Bridge […]
**In Memoriam: Honoring the Recently Lost Visionaries of the Art World** **Llyn Foulkes (1934–2025)** *Multidisciplinary artist who satirized American culture* Llyn Foulkes forged a seven-decade career as a fierce commentator on American culture, using his art to critique and satirize historical and contemporary themes. His oeuvre ranges from paintings and assemblages to music, reflecting his diverse talents and unyielding vision. […]
Art Critic Christopher Knight Retires from Los Angeles Times Renowned art critic Christopher Knight will retire from the Los Angeles Times on November 28, as announced by fellow staff member Jessica Gelt. Knight, who has served as the paper’s staff art critic for 36 years, is celebrated for his incisive exhibition reviews and commentary on Los Angeles’ arts institutions. He […]
**Title: New York City Council Holds Oversight Hearing on Federal Censorship in the Arts** As cultural organizations across the United States continue to grapple with challenges posed by the Trump administration, New York City took a significant step in addressing these issues during a City Council oversight hearing focused on censorship in the arts. The hearing, spearheaded by City Councilmember […]