Today’s Weekend AJ Highlights

Good morning. How can you believe anything anymore? AI has taken away the “proof” of a video. And seeing (or hearing) is definitely not believing anymore. Sociologists call it “deep doubt,” and being unable to truly believe in anything is destabilizing, not just personally, but for the wider culture. Ars Technica’s Benj Edwards explores the phenomenon. Meanwhile, here are the rest of today’s highlights:

  1. China’s Art Censorship Targets Contemporary Artists
    China’s increasing crackdown on contemporary art has forced many artists to go underground or leave the country entirely. This new wave of censorship is severely limiting creative expression. Read more on The New York Times.
  2. Is AI Creating a Crisis for the Art World?
    As AI-generated art becomes more prevalent, artists and curators are grappling with existential questions about the future of creativity. Is human input becoming irrelevant in the art world? Read more on The Guardian.
  3. Indigenous Artists Lead the Way in Climate Activism
    Indigenous artists from the Amazon to the Arctic are using their work to advocate for urgent climate action, blending cultural traditions with contemporary environmentalism. Their art is drawing attention to the devastating impacts of climate change on indigenous communities. Read more on BBC.
  4. Met Gala’s New Theme Sparks Controversy Over Colonial History
    The announcement of the Met Gala’s new theme, centered on colonial influences in fashion, has ignited a heated debate. Read more on Vogue.
  5. The Return of Live Theatre in Post-Pandemic New York
    New York’s theatre scene is experiencing a renaissance as audiences flock back to live performances post-pandemic. The industry is also facing new challenges, from inflation to shifting audience demographics. Read more on The Washington Post.

As usual, skip down to read the rest of the stories we collected this weekend. See you tomorrow.

Doug

Latest Stories

St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Adds Another Artistic Partner: Violinist Alina Ibragimova

The Russian-British violinist joins five current artistic partners: harpsichordist and conductor Richard Egarr, pianist Richard Goode, cellist Abel Selaocoe, conductor Gábor Takács-Nagy, and violist Tabea Zimmermann. Ibragimova’s term begins next season. - The Strad

A Sea Change In Australian Orchestra Programming

Overall, works by women made up 14.6 percent of programming in 2025, an increase on 2024’s 11.9 percent after a dip from 13.2 percent in 2023. - Limelight

Gen Z Is Returning To The Movie Theatre

Gen Z is buying up a higher percentage of movie tickets, rising from 34% of the overall box office in 2019 to 39% last year. - The Star-Tribune

Premium

The Cecilia Chorus of NY, Carnegie Hall, April 17.

The Cecilia Chorus of NY, Carnegie Hall, April 17. Pianist Simone Dinnerstein, guitarist David Leisner. Premieres by Robert Sirota; Mark Buller, Leah Lax, Beth Greenberg.

The Heifetz International Music Institute seeks Executive Director.

The next Executive Director will advance the organization’s mission, safeguard its financial and operational strength, and foster an environment in which artistic excellence thrives.

The Florida Orchestra seeks Vice President of Development.

The next Vice President of Development will play a central role in advancing the financial strength and long-term sustainability of The Florida Orchestra.

Director of Philanthropy – Ballet Arizona working with Management Consultants for the Arts

Celebrating its 40th year & launching a new artistic vision under Artistic Director Daniela Cardim, Ballet Arizona is poised for ambitious growth. The organization seeks

Grand Rapids Symphony – President & CEO

As it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2030, the Grand Rapids Symphony seeks a mission‑driven President & CEO to lead its next chapter of impact

Classifieds

Ukrainian musical mosaics in New York City

March 19–21: Ukrainian Contemporary Music Festival returns to DiMenna Center for Classical Music to celebrate the rich diversity of Ukraine's peoples, places, and musical practices