ArtsJournal: Arts, Culture, Ideas

Today’s AJ Highlights

Good morning: Why is there a story about antitrust and attempts to break up Big Tech companies in AJ today? Because these leviathans have gotten so big and so powerful that they determine what culture gets seen and shared and by whom. And they have far too much power.

  • First Female Director Appointed at the Louvre in 230 Years Laurence des Cars has made history as the first woman to be appointed director of the Louvre in its 230-year history. Read more in Le Monde.
  • Ancient Greek Shipwreck Yields New Artifacts in the Aegean Archaeologists have uncovered a wealth of new artifacts from an ancient Greek shipwreck in the Aegean Sea, including bronze statues and ceramics, providing new insights into ancient Mediterranean trade routes. Read more in National Geographic.
  • China Overtakes the US in Box Office Revenue For the first time in history, China’s annual box office revenue has surpassed that of the United States, signaling a significant shift in the global entertainment industry. Read more in Variety.
  • Europe’s Top Art Collectors Face Backlash Over Climate Activism Some of Europe’s leading art collectors are under fire for their support of climate activism while continuing to profit from industries tied to fossil fuels. This growing controversy highlights the tension between art patronage and environmental responsibility. Read more in The Art Newspaper.
  • Controversy Surrounds New AI-Powered Art Critic A new AI-powered platform designed to critique art has sparked debates about the role of artificial intelligence in the art world. Read more in Wired.

As usual – the rest of the stories we collected are below. Share this newsletter with someone who might be interested. Have a great weekend.

Doug

Latest Stories

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The 17,000 costume pieces are the least extravagant feature of The Gift of Christmas, the annual spectacular presented by Prestonwood Baptist Church near Dallas. On the 300-foot stage are LED screens, lasers, fireworks, trapezing elves, flying angels, and 21 animals. (And yes, shepherds, three kings, and the Holy Family. And...

Why Did So Many Art Galleries Close This Year?

Overall, when it came to galleries, the dominant vibe was one of endings more than beginnings—and it continued a building drumbeat. Those who closed or significantly downsized in 2025, after all, joined others that have expired in previous years. - ARTnews

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“Nyuserra’s sun temple, which is located in Abu Ghurab about 10 miles south of Cairo, was composed of two parts: the previously excavated upper temple and the valley temple (alongside the Nile), which Massimiliano Nuzzolo began work on in 2024.” - Artnet

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