These 17 Museum Exhibits Will Inspire Your Next Creative Summer Getaway
From a showcase of Emperor Napoleon and Empress Joséphine Bonaparte's collections in Paris to new museum openings around the world.
As COVID-19 declines and vaccination rates rise across much of North America and Europe, we are ready to explore the world again and find creative inspiration outside of our own four walls. We've tracked down the top museum exhibitions and openings from around the world this summer to help inspire your next intellectually stimulating getaway. From the spectacular collections of the legendary Emperor Napoleon and Empress Joséphine Bonaparte to the highly anticipated opening of Los Angeles' Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, you'll want to keep tabs on these exciting new exhibits, and if you're lucky enough, see them for yourself.
Andy Warhol Exhibit at The Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection in Telluride
Traveling to Telluride this summer? Don't miss your chance to experience this incredible Warhol exhibit from Hedges Projects, which has famously collected more Warhol photographs than any other institution or individual in the world. Explore a unique visual history of the artist's life and works through July 12, with 20 percent of all sales going to support Telluride AIDS Benefit. Plus, it's a great excuse to view the newly transformed resort.
"Notre Ami, Pierre Cardin" Hosted by SCAD Lacoste in Provence
Those lucky enough to be heading to the South of France for what is sure to be a fabulous getaway should make sure to visit the newly reopened creative enclave for this fashion-forward exhibition. SCAD is hosting a "high-style homage" to the world-famous designer and local resident at its Lacoste location that features his most inspirational garments and two films created by SCAD students that honor his life and legacy. "Notre Ami, Pierre Cardin" will be on display from June 28-September 3.
The exhibit also honors Cardin's longstanding relationship with the university, as he mentored hundreds of aspiring artists and students for two decades. Visitors will also be able to witness the work and creative process behind the five SCAD students elected for the prestigious Alumni Atelier Associates program that will spend the summer creating in SCAD Lacoste's medieval digs that have attracted creatives for centuries.
Anne Ramsdell Congdon’s Nantucket Renaissance at Nantucket's Whaling Museum
Those visiting the idyllic town of Nantucket should carve out some time away from the ocean to enjoy the array of exhibitions hosted by Nantucket Historical Association this summer. Among the most exciting events is Anne Ramsdell Congdon's Nantucket Renaissance at the Whaling Museum's McCausland Gallery, which just opened on Friday, June 18. This exhibition offers an inside look into the life and works of Nantucket's most acclaimed member of the island's art colony and will showcase pieces that have never been displayed in a public setting.
“Les Lalanne at Trianon” at Château de Versailles
If we had it our way, our next great vacation would be spent at the brand-new Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle with daily walks around the Trianon exploring "Les Lalanne at Trianon" which opened earlier this month. This is the largest outdoor exhibition of Claude and François-Xavier Lalanne's works, featuring more than 50 of their most iconic creations, also making it the largest collection of the pair's works presented. This incredible experience was organized by by Jean Gabriel Mitterrand from Galerie Mitterrand in Paris, who began representing the pair in the '90s and remains associated with the late artists' family. The exhibit will remain on display through October 10.
Dreaming of your own fabulous French getaway? Join us in Paris this September to enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences, like a private tour of Versailles Palace typically closed to the public and luxurious accommodations at Hotel du Lourve.
The New Permanent Home of the Pinault Collection Opens in Paris' Bourse de Commerce
On May 22, a brand-new contemporary art museum opened in the 18th-century Parisian commerce building that houses François Pinault's permanent collection. The business mogul and long-term patron of the arts has a collection of more than 10,000 artworks by nearly 400 artists that a wide variety of creative mediums from the '60s to today, making a trip to this new institution of the arts worth the addition to your trip itinerary.
Power, Passion, & Pose at Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga
Through September 6, ballet and dance enthusiasts will not want to miss out on Power, Passion & Pose: Photographs by Ken Browar and Deborah Ory that just opened at the renowned art museum. This collaboration between dancers, choreographers, and photographers intersects fashion, dance, and art. A top highlight is Misty Copeland featured in the exhibit's Degas Series.
Dawoud Bey: An American Project at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City
Now through October 3, visitors will be able to explore this comprehensive collection of the groundbreaking photographer's work at the Whitney in collaboration with the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Bey has spent his career expanding what photography is and ought to be, seeing it as an ethical practice that requires collaboration with its subjects. The artist has largely focused on portraying underrepresented and unseen communities and histories, establishing photography as a political responsibility for artists and their institutions to break down barriers, unite, and create an open forum for dialogue.
Andy Warhol at Art Gallery of Ontario
From July 17-October 24, an exhibition of the iconic 20th-century artist will take place at AGO, created in partnership with Tate Modern, London and Museum Ludwig, Cologne. Featuring loans from museums and private collections across North America and Europe, this exhibition will be a comprehensive look at the artist's talent, life, and inspirations.
Slavery: Ten True Stories at Rijiksmuseum in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's national arts and history museum is featuring a powerful exhibition on slavery during the Dutch Colonial period structured around 10 true stories from Brazil, Suriname, the Caribbean, South Africa, and Asia spanning 250 years. These stories are told through objects, paintings and archival documents, along with oral poems and music, featuring items collected from museums, archives, and private collections from around the world through August 29.
Frick Collection's Temporary Relocation to Frick Madison
Set in the former Breuer Building on the corner of Madison and 75th, the Frick Madison is the new temporary home of the Frick Collection as the Gilded Age manse on East 70th Street is currently undergoing a two-year renovation. Be sure to visit this temporary location to discover the best of the Frick's permanent collection, as well as a reading room that offers resources from the Frick Art Reference Library—perfect for hot summer days in the city.
Memphis Milano 40th Anniversary Exhibition at YSL Rive Droite in L.A. and Paris
The Yves Saint Laurent Rive Droite stories in Los Angeles and Paris will become home to a new summer exhibition featuring the iconic Italian architectural firm Memphis Milano now until June 23. The stores will host a collection of Memphis pieces ahead of the firm's 40th anniversary that includes furniture, housewares, ceramics, textile accessories, and rare books. The brand's creative director Anthony Vaccarello has also created an exclusive capsule collection of ready-to-wear apparel and accessories to celebrate the collaboration that is now available to shop online and at Saint Laurent Rive Droite stores.
Joséphine & Napoleon at Chaumet
The Parisian jewelry house is hosting an exhibition of the iconic royal couple's collection now through July 18, showcasing the pair's connection to the formation of the brand itself. Marie-Étienne Nitot, founder of Chaumet, became jeweler to the the Bonapartes and created some of their most famous pieces, such as the papal tiara and Joséphine's nature-inspired diadem. This exhibition also features some pieces from the royal couple's collection that have never before been available for public viewing.
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to Open in Los Angeles
After a five-year delay in opening, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is finally set to open its doors in September. Cinema fans from around the globe are sure to be drawn to this new home of film history designed by Renzo Piano. There will be a permanent exhibit on the history of the Oscars and galleries devoted to some of the most iconic films of the 20th century. Check the museum's site throughout the summer for more information on the museum's debut collection of exhibits.
Bags: Inside Out and On Point: Royal Academy of Dance at 100 at Victoria and Albert Museum in London
While some predicted the pandemic may see the death of the handbag, the iconic Victoria and Albert Museum is paying homage to the style, function, design, and craftsmanship of "the ultimate accessory" now through January 2022. This exhibit will stretch as far back as the mid-16th century through more recent designs of Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld to showcase the rich history and importance of bags.
And after more than a year of missing one of our favorite events: attending the ballet, visitors will be able to explore the Royal Academy of Dance's 100-year history through costume, designs, films, and other unique materials now through September 12.
Kusama: Cosmic Nature and Infinity Mirror Room—Illusion Inside the Heart at New York Botanical Gardens
Now through October 31, visitors can enjoy both the wonders of nature and the works of Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama in a whimsical outdoor exhibit that highlights the creative's lifelong adoration of plants. Additionally, Kusama's sensational Infinity Mirror Room—Illusion Inside the Heart will be open for interior access at NYBG starting August 3. The room responds to varying natural light through colored glass throughout the days and seasons. Be sure to check back for tickets frequently as they are limited and expected to sell out as only one party of up to four people can experience the room at once.
Mary Newcomb: Nature's Canvas at Compton Verney in Warwickshire, England
Now through September 5, more than 50 works of the natural scientist, farmer, and artist, plus extracts from the writing and works of those who inspired her will be on display at Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park. Newcomb's incredibly detailed and delicate drawings portray her adoration for the natural world and are a must-see for anyone else who shares the sentiment.
The Making of Rodin at Tate Modern in London
Now through November 21, this groundbreaking exhibition at London's Tate Modern will feature more than 200 works of renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin, many of which have never been seen outside of France. Visitors will get to explore the creative's creative process, rule-breaking style of art, and use of plaster as an essential medium for his practice.
Lauren Wicks is a Birmingham-based writer covering design trends, must-have products, travel inspiration, and entertaining. She’s obsessed with globally inspired textiles, hosting dinner parties, and French cocktails.
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