ArtsJournal: Arts, Culture, Ideas

Today’s AJ Highlights

Good morning: One of the biggest changes in the past 20 years in culture has been the evolution of the relationships between artists and audiences. Fan culture has more power than ever, and with some pop culture franchises, fans are not shy about rewarding or shaming creators with each new project. So where’s the balance in who owns artistic work?

Here are more highlights from today’s stories:

  • Michelangelo’s Secret Drawing Unveiled in Florence A previously unknown sketch by Michelangelo has been discovered in Florence’s Casa Buonarroti Museum. The drawing is believed to be a study for his Sistine Chapel frescoes. Read more in The Art Newspaper.
  • Archaeologists Using AI Discover 303 Unknown Geoglyphs in Peru’s Nazca Desert Using AI, archaeologists have discovered hundreds of previously unknown geoglyphs in Peru’s Nazca Desert, adding to the mysteries of ancient civilizations. Read more in El País.
  • Statue of Johnny Cash Unveiled in the US Capitol A statue of music icon Johnny Cash has been unveiled at the US Capitol, making him the first musician to be represented in the National Statuary Hall Collection. Read more in Washington Post.
  • The Debate Over Copyrighting AI-Created Art Reaches a New Level Legal battles continue over whether AI-generated art can be copyrighted, with a recent ruling adding fuel to the controversy. This case has broad implications for artists and creatives in the digital age. Read more in Wired.
  • Fandom Is Increasingly Becoming a Problem Toxic fan behavior has increasingly become a challenge for celebrities, as social media gives fans unprecedented access to their favorite stars, often leading to harassment and toxicity. Read more in Vox.

The rest of today’s stories are below. Have a great day.

Doug

Latest Stories

An Ethnomusicologist Analyzes Eartha Kitt’s “Santa Baby”

Prof. Michael O’Brien discusses why we listen to so many of the same songs year after year, the unusual appeal of “Santa Baby,” and why Eartha Kitt’s version is so much better than Madonna’s (or anyone else’s). - The Post and Courier (Charleston)

The Woeful State Of Arts PR. Here’s Why It Matters

On the inside of my job, lousy PR is one of the biggest signs that an institution is struggling. Outreach goes ignored, follow-up is late and flustered, and media events suffer. - Broad Street Review

The Collective Who’s Transforming Ballet In France’s Second City

“(LA)HORDE is a choreographic collective running the National Ballet of Marseille and rewriting the ballet rulebook for a new era. Their work blends classical techniques with surprising influences, from queer nightlife to the political history of social dance.” - BBC (video)

Premium

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Apply Now: Canada’s National Arts Centre Mentorship Program

A paid side-by-side opportunity in Ottawa, Canada for emerging and early-career orchestral musicians, conductors and administrators. International applicants welcome.
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