Sophie Monaghan-Coombs
Our top-10 books to holiday with this summer. Plus: must-visit bookshops around the world
To help you pick the right books for your summer reading list, we asked an array of cultural figures to share the titles old and new that have inspired them.
Global conflict sets a tone of controversy and contention at this year’s Venice Biennale
The preview week of the world’s most prestigious exhibition of contemporary art was an unruly spectacle – charged by political dissent, moments of beauty and works shining brightly through the chaos.
Art Basel brings fun back to the fair with the element of surprise
In recent years the art world’s largest commercial fair has painted itself into a corner. But satellite shows and new initiatives at this year’s event are helping to offer fresh perspectives.
London’s Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration opens in a bid to draw new audiences to the art form
The world’s biggest space dedicated to illustration has opened in London. Can it help to protect the art amid rising threats from AI?
Treasure hunters: Seven industry specialists behind the art auction block
There’s more to collecting than following markets and speculating on value appreciation. We meet the people at the heart of the action, from a veteran auctioneer to a design-fair director.
The AI art adviser in your pocket: How Artsignal is supporting art collectors and auction houses
Artsignal, the AI-assisted service built for auction houses and collectors, is a first-of-its-kind research tool helping art professionals gather market-level insights.
Art and politics collide as protests reframe the Venice Biennale
From Pussy Riot’s chants to Latvia’s “Death in Venice” campaign, art has taken a backseat at this year’s vernissage as protesters flooded The Floating City to object to the Russian and Israeli pavilions.
Five pavilions to see at the Venice Biennale
With almost 100 national pavilions at this year’s art festival, these are the ones that you won’t want to miss.
The Venice Biennale jury resigns just days before the annual art festival is set to begin
There is disquiet among the gardens and waters of La Serenissima as protest grows against the inclusion of the Russian and Israeli pavilions.
Brilliant music, books, art and TV to have on your radar in May
This month’s most exciting cultural happenings include a Beninese musician’s pop-star-packed album, an exhibition examining the work of Icelandic star Björk and a film told from the perspective of a plucky hen.
