From the White Glove Auction of George Michael’s Collection to the Death of Beloved Curator Okwui Enwezor: The Best and Worst of the Art World This Week

Catch up on this week's news—fast.

Michael Craig-Martin, Commissioned Self-Portrait (George) (2007). Image courtesy of Christie's Images Ltd.

BEST?

Germany Takes a Giant Leap – The country’s culture ministers issued a historic joint resolution to begin returning colonial-era artworks to their countries of origin.

The Color of Money – It turns out that money isn’t green, at least according to a new study analyzing what colors in art attract the highest prices.

Dior Delivers at the V&A – An exhibition of fashion designer Christian Dior’s work is proving to be a blockbuster at the London museum, and has been extended almost two months to satisfy visitors.

All the Lots Go-Go – Christie’s delivered a white glove auction of the late George Michael’s art collection in London, fetching $12 million for charity.

Learning From Experience? – artnet News looks at the rising trend of “experience”-based museum attractions, and what it takes to maintain style and substance.

Jerry Saltz Gets a Book Deal – The Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic for New York Magazine is turning a viral essay, “How to Be an Artist,” into a two- book deal.

TEFAF’s Treasures – The swanky fair opened in Maastricht this week, and we’ve selected some of the most interesting (and quirky) finds.

 

WORST?

Okwui Enwezor Dies at Age 55 – The Nigerian art historian and scholar was the first curator to helm the Venice Biennale and documenta.

The Definitive Picasso Historian Has Died – The writer John Richardson died at 95 after having spent the bulk of his career writing poetically about Pablo Picasso.

Venezuela’s Disaster – While the country faces political tumult, a vibrant community of artists and dealers struggles to stay afloat.

A Disappearance at Desert X – Erick N. Mack’s Desert X installation Halter has vanished in what the artist is caling “an act of hate.”

“Unashamed” and Unwelcome at the Smithsonian – A giant portrait of Trump was the star at this year’s CPAC and the artist is waging a legal battle to let it be shown at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.


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