The 20 Most Popular Hyperallergic Stories of 2025

As 2025 comes to an end, it’s time to revisit some of the standout moments in art and culture as covered by Hyperallergic. This year proved eventful, with stories ranging from heists to political discourse fueling conversations in the art community.

Prominent among our topics was the daring Louvre heist, which captivated audiences and spawned a wave of social media memes. This event not only highlighted the vulnerabilities within prestigious art institutions but also drew in digital commentators who humorously linked it to broader societal issues, such as poking fun at political figures.

Another significant thread was the increasing authoritarian tendencies observed within the White House, which understandably echoed throughout the art world. This phenomenon generated a multitude of creative responses, culminating in powerful protest art, and lively critique of cultural rhetoric.

This reflection is merely a fraction of the nearly 2,000 stories published by Hyperallergic this year, spanning diverse subjects and engaging millions through newsletters and the web. This effort has been bolstered significantly by our dedicated Hyperallergic members who ensure our work and critique remain fiercely independent.

As we list our 20 most-read stories of the year, these narratives not only depict the art world’s engagement with topical issues but also document the intersection of art with broader social, political, and environmental discourse. Standout articles have explored seldom-discussed histories, the complex relationship between artists and age, and critical views on historical narratives and their modern reinterpretations.

In 2026, we aim to continue this exploration, providing thoughtful insights into the art world and beyond, motivated by the support of our ever-growing community. If you aren’t already a member, we invite you to join us in sustaining vibrant, independent reporting as the new year unfolds.