In Ghana, fantasy coffins have become a colorful celebration of life and legacy. Families see them as tributes to their loved ones, while collectors view them as art. Nicolas Ablorh Annan, a coffin maker from Accra, notes that the practice originated among the Ga people but has expanded across Ghana. His family business, started by his great-grandfather, now ships fantasy coffins to museums abroad for exhibitions. At funerals, the presence of these elaborate coffins captivates mourners with their craftsmanship and vivid colors. Eric Kpakpo Adotey, a carpenter specializing in fantasy coffins, says the atmosphere shifts as people admire the coffins, and laughter blends with tears.
The V&A's new David Bowie museum in east London has unveiled a treasure trove of artifacts, including handwritten notes and meticulous details about the artist's unrealised projects. The archive, which includes 200 items on display, reveals Bowie's obsessive collecting and detailing of mundane objects. Visitors can book one-on-one time with the archived items, which include a metal key to Bowie and Iggy Pop's infamous Berlin apartment, elaborate stage costumes, battered guitars, and fan art. A handwritten letter from Lady Gaga reads: "I feel my entire career has been an artistic plea for you to notice me". The museum is curated by indie five-piece The Last Dinner Party, and part of the show features notes detailing Bowie's unrealised projects, including a stage adaptation of George Orwell's novel 1984.
The inaugural Hin-Between Festival has kicked off at Hin Bus Depot in George Town, marking two major milestones: its 10th anniversary as an art and community space last year and the 10th anniversary of its weekly Hin Market this year. The festival, themed 'Time', is a celebration of the space's journey as a creative hub that brings together artists, creators and storytellers to explore how time shaped their experiences, memories and visions. Exhibitions are spread out in different spaces within the depot, including a site-specific exhibition 'A Decade with Hin' by Thum Chia Chieh, which showcases photographs of the space's changes over the last 10 years. Another exhibition features a video and sound installation by Singaporean duo Samantha Lee and Jing Jie Lim, questioning the idea of what is real and authentic online by showcasing the behind-the-scenes decisions required to manufacture curated social media moments.
The winners of the Dress Like a Museum Exhibit 2025 have been announced. The official award ceremony revealed specific awards won by contestants, including the Van Gassayu Award with a prize money of 1,000,000 won ($720), the Costume Play Award with a prize money of 500,000 won, and the Together Haeju Award with a prize money of 100,000 won. Additionally, Appreciation Awards were presented as prizes, with a National Museum of Korea mug awarded to the recipients.
The Maya Bazaar LGBTQIA Festival in Bangalore is a significant event this weekend. The festival, which celebrates diversity and inclusivity, features various art and cultural events. These include a panel discussion on the importance of LGBTQIA rights in India, a showcase of local art and crafts, and a performance by a renowned dance troupe. The festival aims to promote unity and understanding among people from different backgrounds, making it a special event for the community.
Gustaf Westman, Swedish designer for IKEA, discusses his approach to creating a winter collection that is both functional and playful. He emphasizes the importance of chunky, oversized designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Westman's collection features bold colors and textures, which he believes will appeal to customers looking for a cozy and inviting home decor.
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is hosting a Ceramics & Pottery Pop-Up event on September 14, featuring over 20 local and regional artists selling handcrafted goods such as wheel-thrown pottery. The event will take place in the market hall's greenhouse and banquet room from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with attendees able to browse and shop for unique ceramic art while supporting local artists and small business owners.
PM Modi unveiled a commemorative coin on the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika in Guwahati. The music of Bhupen Hazarika encompasses the concept of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat', rooted in India's cultural traditions.
The Broadway Theatre in Rosebud, Australia, is back in business after a long hiatus. The art deco theatre, built almost 100 years ago, initially opened as a silent movie theatre in 1928. During World War II, it functioned as a dance hall.