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The art world is buzzing with news of a London curator curating the SITE biennial, the closure of Mnuchin Gallery, a record-breaking sale of a tiny Michelangelo foot drawing, and other exciting developments.
Art Movements, published every Thursday afternoon, is a roundup of must-know news, appointments, awards, and other happenings in today’s chaotic art world.
Now Boarding: London —> New Mexico
Renowned British curator and writer Ekow Eshun has been selected to curate the prestigious 13th SITE SANTA FE International Biennial scheduled for the summer of 2027. Eshun, celebrated for his leadership at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London, expressed his excitement for the opportunity to explore New Mexico’s rich cultural landscape and create an enchanting exhibition.
Mnuchin Gallery Calls It
Following the recent passing of founder Robert Mnuchin, Mnuchin Gallery in New York City has announced its closure. Despite its notable exhibitions, including a memorable Willem de Kooning survey, the gallery will bid farewell with a display of Julian Schnabel plate paintings.
What Else Happened?
- Chelsea Bighorn has been awarded the Walker Youngbird Foundation’s 2026 Emerging Native Arts Grant for her innovative textile pieces blending Native American and Irish-American influences.
- The Tulsa Artist Fellowship has announced its 2026–2028 cohort, featuring talented artists such as Myiesha Gordon Beales and Rebecca Nagle.
- The Asian American Arts Alliance revealed the recipients of its What Can We Do? grant, supporting AAPI artists in New York.
- Japanese sculptor Yuko Mohri was honored with the $50,000 Calder Prize.
- Conny Maier has joined Société gallery in collaboration with Hauser & Wirth.
- Ulrike Al-Khamis will retire as director of the Aga Khan Museum after nine years of service.
- The Warhol Foundation is expanding its grant program to support smaller visual arts projects.
An extraordinary event unfolded at Christie’s as a small Michelangelo drawing fetched a staggering $27 million at auction. The intricate sketch, depicting a foot study for the Sistine Chapel frescoes, set a new record for the renowned Italian Renaissance artist. The buyer’s determination in a lengthy bidding war exemplifies the enduring allure of art history.
