Culture
If public art is meant to inspire communities, why do cities often get it so wrong?
Sculptures in urban spaces rarely speak to the people and places in which they’re plonked. Is there ever a time they can actually improve our quality of life?
Latest in Monocle Radio
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Three film festivals transforming cities into open-air cinemas this summer
Under the open skies of Montreal, Bologna and Prizren, these outdoor screening events are celebrating cinema’s brightest stars – past and present.
Interview: Zürich Art Weekend director previews 2025’s immersive showcase
Ahead of Art Basel in Basel kicking off next week, there’s another event that will be drawing a crowd in Switzerland…
Saudi Arabia is high-techifying the Hajj – but does modernisation taint its sanctity?
The annual pilgrimage to Mecca is undergoing a state-of-the-art transformation this year. But will tech spoil the spiritual experience for attending pilgrims?
Tray bien: Canteens make an upscale comeback as Londoners invest in lunchtime
Dining al desko is done and dusted. Office workers are reclaiming their lunch hours with the help of canteen-style restaurants that are healthy, a little smug and suddenly ubiquitous.
Love loses out as corporate sponsors flee Pride in fear of the White House
Amid political pressures from the current administration, long-time sponsors are withdrawing their support from US Pride events. But despite the financial and political challenges, celebrations are full steam ahead.
LA’s Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair goes international
In an era dominated by adventure flicks and superhero franchises, American Cinematheque’s screening festival dedicated to showcasing dark films is expanding its reach beyond the US.
Editor’s letter: Andrew Tuck on crafting with intention
The world is chaotic, so we try to bring order where we can. In our June issue, our editor in chief celebrates the new V&A East Storehouse and the value of considered urban design.
Every object has a story to tell – and V&A London’s new storage facility is designed to serve as a museum
Monocle takes an exclusive look behind the scenes of London’s new V&A East Storehouse that’s not just demystifying the work of curators and conservators, but also redefining what a museum can be.
Underrated pillars of the contemporary-art world
From archivists to frame makers, the international art industry relies on a network of behind-the-scenes talent to thrive. We meet some of the creative professionals who play crucial roles in the sector.
A fair to remember: Highlights from the upcoming Art Basel in Basel
While Art Basel has evolved into a global phenomenon, the edition of the fair that is held in Switzerland remains unmissable. Here is what to have on your radar.
