Few artistic movements of the 20th century have left a legacy as powerful as the Surrealists. According to Matthew Affron, curator of “Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100” at the Philadelphia Art Museum (on view through February), this diverse, international group aimed for nothing less than “a revolution in consciousness.” This remarkable exhibition—the first of several must-see shows this season—features around 200 paintings, films, and sculptures by celebrated artists such as Joan Miró, Leonora Carrington, and Roberto Matta. The traveling exhibition originated at the Centre Pompidou, fittingly, since Surrealism was born in Paris, and Philadelphia marks its fifth and final stop. This iteration highlights artists who fled Nazi Europe for North America. At a time when our world is again in turmoil, Surrealism’s radical imagination feels like a timely antidote.
Gerhard Richter, widely regarded as the greatest living painter at 93, is the focus of a comprehensive retrospective at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris (through March). The exhibition spans six decades of his work, showcasing his relentless experimentation—from dragging a squeegee across canvases to reinterpreting Renaissance masterpieces, like his 1973 series Annunciation after Titian. Arranged chronologically, the show offers something for every viewer.
One of the art world’s most compelling recent stories is that of Bettina Grossman, an avant-garde artist whose extensive archive of photographs, sculptures, films, and paintings is only now being discovered. Known simply as Bettina, she lived in the Chelsea Hotel from 1972 until her death in 2021 at over 90. Her estate is now managed by artist Yto Barrada, who recognized the value and appeal of Bettina’s creations. “Original Order Order Original: The Art and Archives of Bettina,” the largest presentation of her work to date, is on view at Ruth Arts in Milwaukee (through April). The project is both an exhibition and an ongoing exploration—curator Andrea Andersson notes that “just weeks ago, we were opening a box of work that no one has ever known existed.” The art itself is mesmerizing, featuring undulating carved wood sculptures, candid street photography, and experimental 16-mm films. As Andersson puts it, “We’re just catching up to her extraordinary genius.”
Further west, the acclaimed abstract artist Jacqueline Humphries will occupy two floors of the Aspen Art Museum starting in December (through April). Humphries, 65, merges traditional painting with elements of modern life—such as coding language and silvery screen-like paint—to reinterpret Abstract Expressionism for the 21st century. Her large canvases sometimes resemble captcha tests. For this exhibition of mostly new works, the New York–based artist revisits fluorescent paints, which reveal hidden forms under black light. The show solidifies Humphries’ reputation as one of today’s most inventive and ambitious painters.
“Ideas of Africa: Portraiture and Political Imagination” at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (December through July) presents over 100 striking photographs, many taken in Central and West African cities during the mid-20th century. Against the backdrop of decolonization, photographers like Seydou Keïta, Sanlé Sory, and Malick Sidibé captured the revolutionary spirit and Pan-African unity in their communities. Rather than focusing solely on a historical moment, the exhibition illustrates how that era’s energy has resonated across places and time. Curator Oluremi C. Onabanjo, who organized the show with Chiara Mannarino, describes it as taking “imagination and movement as its beating pulse.” The photographs are vibrant and powerful, leaping off the walls with style and impact.In London, two winter exhibitions are honoring British art legends. The National Portrait Gallery presents “Lucian Freud: Drawing into Painting” from February to May, highlighting the late artist’s works on paper. While Freud’s paintings are rich in texture and psychological depth, his drawings are minimalist and intimate. His tender portrayals of subjects like his daughter Bella Freud and second wife Caroline Blackwood reveal profound truths. As Blackwood noted, Freud’s portraits expose secrets so openly that they cease to be hidden.
Across the Thames, Tate Modern hosts “Tracey Emin: A Second Life” from February to August, the largest exhibition yet for the queen of confessional art. Spanning 40 years, Emin’s work includes painting, sculpture, installations, video, and neon pieces, all featured here. The show combines new creations since her 2020 cancer diagnosis with iconic works like 1998’s My Bed, a raw depiction of personal turmoil, demonstrating how the 62-year-old artist continues to captivate with her emotional honesty and boldness.
This spring, the highly anticipated Obama Presidential Center opens on Chicago’s South Side, featuring notable art commissions. Among them is a 70-foot mural by Aliza Nisenbaum for the library’s reading room, which she describes as “the honor of a lifetime.” Collaborating with President Obama, Nisenbaum incorporated writers like Walt Whitman and Toni Morrison, along with Midwestern flora and everyday scenes, creating a vibrant tribute to nature and literature that will enhance the learning environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a helpful and clear list of FAQs about Winter Wonders Eight MustSee Art Exhibitions
General Information
1 What is Winter Wonders Eight MustSee Art Exhibitions
Its a curated list of eight highly recommended art exhibitions happening during the winter season designed to help you plan your cultural outings
2 Where can I find the full list of exhibitions
The full list including exhibition titles featured artists and museum names is available on the events official website in the original article or through the partnering museums social media channels
3 Are these exhibitions all in one city or spread out
They are typically hosted in major museums and galleries across different cities The list will specify the location for each one
Tickets Planning
4 Do I need to buy tickets in advance
Yes its highly recommended Popular winter exhibitions often sell out so booking online in advance guarantees your entry and can sometimes save you money
5 Are there any combined passes or discounts for seeing multiple exhibitions
Sometimes museums in the same city or group offer pass deals Check the individual museum websites for bundle options or city tourism passes that might include admission
6 What are the best days and times to visit to avoid crowds
Weekday mornings are generally the quietest Evenings or late openings are also a good option to experience the art with fewer people
For Beginners FirstTime Visitors
7 Im new to art galleries Will I enjoy these
Absolutely These exhibitions are selected for their broad appeal You dont need any prior knowledgejust come with an open mind and see what speaks to you
8 How long should I plan to spend at each exhibition
Most people spend between 60 to 90 minutes but you can go at your own pace Its better to take your time than to rush
9 Is there a guided tour available
Most of these exhibitions offer audio guides or scheduled guided tours Check the museums website for times and languages offered booking a spot on a tour can greatly enhance your understanding
Content Experience
10 What kind of art is featured Is it all paintings
The list usually includes a diverse mix such as modern sculpture classical paintings photography and immersive digital installations The