Bridget Finn Unveils Art Basel Miami Beach Winners
7.23.25
Art Basel Miami Beach is set to unveil its gold-medalists as part of the Art Basel Awards ceremony on December 4. The event marks a new era under the leadership of Bridget Finn, who has taken over as director of the fair. This year's edition will feature 283 galleries, including an increased presence of Latin American artists, and comes after a redesign of the space to attract emerging galleries.
The rise of college rock in the '80s allowed artists to express their individuality and creativity without mainstream constraints. This led to a thriving indie scene where quirky and inventive musicians could gain recognition and financial support for their unique styles. Bands like R.E.M., Sonic Youth, and Hüsker Dü were among those who capitalized on this trend, paving the way for alternative music's alt-rock movement in the 1990s.
Ozzy Osbourne, known as "the Prince of Darkness," was a metal superstar who made significant contributions to culture beyond his music. He appeared in video games like World of Warcraft and had songs featured in Guitar Hero. As a counterculture figure during the 1980s' "Satanic Panic" era, his music inspired fans to challenge societal norms. His influence can be seen in films and TV shows that used Black Sabbath's songs and artwork to convey edgy characters. Despite health issues, Ozzy left a lasting legacy through his music, which will continue to live on forever.
The exhibition features a diverse range of artworks by 70 artists from around the world, including Akshita Lad, Akanksha Kshatriya, and Afshan Khan, among others. The show's focus on summer is reflected in vibrant colours and landscapes, reminiscent of Claude Monet's "Impression, Sunrise" and Vincent van Gogh's "Harvest at La Crau".
Dubai Design Week has highlighted various interior brands and art sellers, with the House of Islamic Arts unveiling a new museum in Jeddah featuring over 1,000 artefacts. Meanwhile, Emirates Group plans to hire more than 17,000 staff globally as part of its recruitment drive. In other news, Abu Dhabi's top private schools have been ranked among the best in the UAE, with some charging high fees for their education. The UAE has also launched a crackdown on visa overstayers, arresting over 32,000 individuals in six months.
Alejandro Sanz Demands Transparency in AI Act Enforcement
7.23.25
Alejandro Sanz, a Spanish artist, has joined a campaign calling on the European Commission to enforce the Artificial Intelligence Act, which was consensually approved in June 2024. The act requires transparency and disclosure of content used to train generative AI models. However, artists fear that the EU's efforts to implement the law may lead to its watering down, allowing AI companies to avoid accountability.
The CANNES GALA ceremony honoured distinguished figures including Ado, Gavin Wood, and Julie Taymor for their contributions to music, technology, performing arts, and animation. The event also celebrated the work of Mitsubishi Pencil Co., Maverick Space Systems, and LEGO Group, while featuring a cultural performance by Shonosuke Okura and Ryota Hagiwara. A charity auction supported artists with disabilities, reinforcing the gala's mission to promote diversity and inclusion in the creative industries.
The 1971 Wisconsin State Fair was a vibrant event that drew thousands of people, including crooners like Johnny Mathis and Western stars Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, who performed at the fairgrounds. The fair also featured sideshows, such as Jimmy Dixon's Dungeon of Torture, where Milwaukee Journal reporter Eileen Alt Powell played the role of a "victim." Comedians Red Skelton and George Kirby entertained the crowd with their unique performances. Music groups like The 5th Dimension and accordionist Myron Floren also took to the stage, providing entertainment for fairgoers.
Kazakhstan's Comic Con Attracts Record 75,000 Visitors
7.23.25
Kazakhstan's comic scene is thriving, with artists drawing inspiration from national symbols and introducing Kazakh-inspired characters into the Marvel universe. The country's Comic Con Astana festival has become a major event, attracting a record 75,000 visitors this year, including 10,000 from abroad. The festival features Hollywood stars, influencers, and a cosplay contest with a €25,000 prize fund, helping to put Kazakhstan on the global map of comic culture.