Art Initiatives Showcasing Varied Cultural Histories: Top of 2025
Art frequently mirrors human experiences, molded by surroundings, heritage, and identity. For centuries, the majority of art celebrated in the Western world originated from only a few European nations; however, today we enjoy nearly limitless access to creators worldwide, sharing their narratives through distinctive methods and techniques.
In an era of division and distrust, this becomes increasingly vital, as art can function as a universal language for understanding others. Placing oneself in the spotlight is also a political declaration—one where the artist claims space and advances what others might prefer to ignore. Some may do it out of a desire to advocate for visibility, while others approach it from a place of deep introspection. Regardless, we all benefit from the opportunity to glimpse into their inner realities.
Throughout 2025, My Modern Met has had the privilege of conversing with and showcasing the work of artists globally, along with creators from every conceivable background. We’ve assembled some of the most impactful projects that advocate for diversity in art—a testament to the countless voices that contribute to our world and merit empowerment.
Art Projects Advocating Diversity and Inclusion in 2025
Warriors by Guillermo Bert (Chilean/Latino community)
Los Angeles-based Chilean multimedia artist Guillermo Bert drew inspiration from the renowned Chinese Terracotta Warriors to honor the Latino community. He accomplished this by utilizing 3D scans of actual workers, many of whom he knows personally and are integral to his daily life. The outcome is Warriors, a series of authentic monuments commemorating these individuals’ labor and resilience. “I desire a world that is more open and inclusive, and my message in all my art embodies that yearning for communication and understanding, striving to foster a more pluralistic society,” he shares with My Modern Met.
Read more: Wooden Sculptures Draw From Chinese Terracotta Warriors to Honor Latino Workers [Interview]
Superfine exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Black dandyism)
The exhibit Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which debuted at The Met Fifth Avenue earlier this year, examined fashion through the perspective of Black style. It particularly highlighted how fashion can offer pathways for political, social, and cultural expression that may not be as easily accessible for marginalized groups. From 18th-century artifacts to modern essentials, the exhibit received acclaim for its ambitious yet detailed scope.
Read more: “Superfine” Exhibition Explores Intertwined History of Black Identity and Style
Geometry of Light by Anila Quayyum Agha (Pakistani/Islamic heritage)
Pakistani-American artist Anila Quayyum Agha crafts patterned environments with her expansive light installations. Reflecting on the gender bias she encountered as a girl in Pakistan, she integrates motifs found in Islamic sacred spaces into her work. By illuminating a laser-cut steel cube and positioning it centrally in the room, the light and shadow that form her narrative (and that of women globally) are equal contributors to her art.
Read More: Laser-Cut Cube Immerses Visitors in Light and Pattern at the Seattle Asian Art Museum
Vibrant paintings by Lauren YS (Chinese-American heritage and BIPOC/queer communities)
In their brightly colored paintings, Chinese-American artist Lauren YS narrates stories surrounding queer identities, social justice, self-discovery, and reclamation. Based in Los Angeles, these artworks reflect the artist’s heritage and the street art practices of Southern California that have influenced their vision. Fueled by this, the paintings function as both a gateway into a fantasy realm and a call to action for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
Read more: Artist Combines Asian-American Roots and Psychedelic Visuals To Create Uniquely Vibrant Paintings
Floral portraits by Seth Fiifi Afful (Pan-African identity)
By transforming the skin of his Black subjects into floral patterns, Ghanaian artist Seth Fiifi Afful weaves an engaging visual story about Pan-African identity, simultaneously presenting a playful contrast of cheerful colors and mesmerizing textures. “My subjects represent and reflect my message of unity and oneness,” Afful conveys to My Modern Met. “The floral designs also aim to project unity among humanity.”
Read more: Artist Combines Floral Patterns and Portraiture to Explore Pan-African Identity
Project Angel Food murals by Robert Vargas (Latinos in Los Angeles)
Los Angeles-based artist Robert Vargas created a three-story mural on the exterior of Project Angel Food’s headquarters in Hollywood. Since the non-profit focuses on delivering meals to individuals facing severe illness, Vargas portrayed those who literally nourish the community—a woman selling tamales nearby, along with images of collaborators working in the kitchen and the delivery team.
Read more: Artist Honors Volunteers That Provide Free Meals for Sick People With Giant Mural in LA [Interview]