The year 2024 was a vibrant period for the art world, marked by significant exhibitions, groundbreaking installations, and influential art fairs that captivated audiences globally. This review highlights some of the most impactful art events that shaped the cultural landscape over the past year.
1. The 60th Venice Biennale: ‘Foreigners Everywhere’
From April 20 to November 24, Venice hosted the 60th edition of the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious events in the art world. Curated by Adriano Pedrosa, the first Latin American artistic director of the Biennale, the central exhibition titled “Foreigners Everywhere” explored themes of marginalization and the outsider experience. The Australian pavilion, featuring artist Archie Moore, received the Golden Lion for best national participation, while the Mataaho Collective was awarded the Golden Lion for best artist in the central exhibition.
2. Art Basel Miami Beach 2024
In December, Art Basel Miami Beach once again became a focal point for contemporary art enthusiasts and celebrities alike. The event showcased a diverse array of artworks from leading galleries worldwide and attracted notable figures such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Ice Spice, highlighting the intersection of art and popular culture. Page Six
3. Johannesburg’s Art and Design Renaissance
Johannesburg emerged as a vibrant hub for art and design, overcoming past challenges to offer a rich cultural experience. The city hosted prominent art fairs like the Turbine Art Fair and FNB Art Joburg, focusing on contemporary African art and drawing international collectors. Cultural centers such as the Apartheid Museum and the Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation further enhanced its cultural offerings, making Johannesburg an attractive destination for art lovers. Condé Nast Traveler
4. ‘Irving Penn: Centennial’ in Spain
From November 23, 2024, to May 1, 2025, the Marta Ortega Pérez Foundation in A Coruña, Spain, presented “Irving Penn: Centennial,” the first Spanish retrospective of the renowned photographer. The exhibition featured 175 works, including portraits of celebrities and everyday individuals, offering a comprehensive look at Penn’s illustrious career. W Magazine
5. New York’s Dynamic Art Scene
New York City continued to be a powerhouse in the art world, hosting groundbreaking exhibitions that spanned various themes and generations. Highlights included a historic sale of an AI-generated portrait of Alan Turing at Sotheby’s, marking a new frontier in art. Exhibitions explored diverse themes, from Haitian art delving into faith and resistance to innovative spatial metaphors by artists like Jamian Juliano-Villani and Klara Lidén. Vulture
6. Latinx Artists at Miami Art Week
During Miami Art Week, Latinx artists made significant contributions, particularly at Art Basel and satellite fairs like Pinta Miami. Galleries showcased works by artists such as Daniel Correa Mejía and Teresa Margolles, exploring themes of nature and humanity. Established artists like Zilia Sánchez and Federico Herrero also had a notable presence, highlighting the rich diversity of Latin American art. El País
7. ‘Ayiti Toma II’ in New York
Curated by Tomm El-Saieh at Luhring Augustine, “Ayiti Toma II” was a significant exhibition that delved into Haitian art, exploring themes of faith, family, and resistance. The show provided a platform for Haitian artists to present their narratives, contributing to the broader discourse on cultural identity and resilience. Vulture
8. ‘The Time is Always Now’ at the National Portrait Gallery, London
This exhibition reframed the Black figure in art, featuring works that challenged traditional representations and offered new perspectives. Curated by Ekow Eshun, the show was noted for its insightful curation and impactful artworks, contributing to ongoing conversations about race and representation in art. Londonist
9. ‘Roy Lichtenstein: A Centennial Exhibition’ in Vienna
Celebrating what would have been Roy Lichtenstein’s 100th birthday, the Albertina Museum in Vienna hosted a major retrospective featuring over 90 works from the 1960s onwards. The exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of Lichtenstein’s contributions to Pop Art and his enduring influence on contemporary art. Timeout
10. ‘Sienna: The Rise of Painting’ at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
This exhibition offered an in-depth look at the development of painting in Sienna, showcasing works that highlighted the city’s artistic innovations. The show was praised for its scholarly approach and the quality of artworks on display, enriching the understanding of Sienese art. Vulture
The art events of 2024 demonstrated the global art community’s resilience and adaptability, offering diverse and enriching experiences that engaged audiences worldwide.
