Culture
Why Italy’s beaches became a battleground this summer
Italian beachgoers are experiencing spiralling fees and shrinking free sand. As debate rages, the question is whether the coastline is for the people – or for profit?
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Resort season is here, business is booming and this time North Korea is not going to be left out
As holidaymakers descend on resorts for the season’s peak period, North Korea is getting in on the act with the opening of its Wonsan Kalma coastal tourist zone.
Foreign policy and fado: An inside look at the Brazilian ambassador to the UK’s surprising new project
Antonio Patriota shares his views on art as a tool of soft power and the importance of music in his diplomatic journey.
Opinion
The ‘bagno’ might offend Northern European sensibilities – but the beach club is a great social leveller
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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?
What Lauren Sanchez’s chest says about 600 years of breast politics
Breasts have become big business. But it wasn’t always this way. When exactly did it all go tits up? Author Sarah Thornton explores how women’s chests have shaped our society.
How Art Basel curator Stefanie Hessler approaches site-specific art in urban spaces
As the fair returns to its namesake town, the director of New York’s Swiss Institute brings the mega event from the convention centre into the city with its Parcours sector.
Selldorf Architects’ healing touch is just what the wounded National Gallery needed
A new chapter has begun for London’s premiere public gallery as the redesign, led by a New York-based architecture firm, proves a restoring grace to the controversial Sainsbury Wing.
What to see at this year’s Art Basel in Basel
Planning to peruse the booths and shows of Art Basel in Basel this year? Here’s a few that caught our eye.
Interview: Japanese super-duo Yoasobi on how they spin literary tales into catchy synth soundscapes
We meet J-pop’s hottest international act, which made its highly anticipated European debut this month in the UK. Acclaimed for transforming fictional stories into chart-topping hits, the duo has captivated fans around the world.
Five striking news kiosks taking a stand for their communities
Our favourite newsstands stock a compelling roster of global print publications and act as valuable neighbourhood hubs. Here are a few that are making headlines.
