March 31, 2022 • View in browser
Good morning. ☁️ Today, we report from the Whitney Museum workers’ protest outside the VIP opening of the 2022 Whitney Biennial, we look at two Navajo artists innovating through contemporary weaving, and we consider if the new FinCEN laws might end wide-scale antiquity theft.
I also interview TikTok influencer Devin Halbal (better known as Hal Baddie) and her now popular catchphrase “Met Gala Behavior.”
And today, I’ll be hosting three Whitney Biennial artists, Nayland Blake, Pao Houa Her, and Raven Chacon, for a conversation on Twitter. Join our Space at noon EDT today to understand how artists prepare for biennials and how they are different from solo exhibitions and other shows.
— Hrag Vartanian, editor-in-chief
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Whitney Museum Workers Surprise 2022 Biennial Guests With Union Protest
Half of the museum’s workers earn less than $20 per hour, and many are temporary workers with no benefits. | Jasmine Liu
SPONSORED
Experience Designs by Eva LeWitt at New York City Ballet’s Art Series
The artist has created 10 sculptures for a special one-night-only event on April 29, where attendees will be able to view her work both on and off the stage. Learn more.
ARTISTS & INFLUENCERS
Two Navajo Artists Weave New Histories
Zefren-M and Morris Muskett find self-expression through contemporary weaving. | Susannah Abbey
Met Gala Behavior and Other TikTok Wisdom From Devin Halbal
An influencer who goes by the handle @halbaddie has been helping define what “Met Gala Behavior” is in 2022. | Hrag Vartanian
SPONSORED
SCAD Museum of Art Appoints Daniel S. Palmer as Chief Curator
The former curator at Public Art Fund, New York, is joining the Savannah College of Art and Design’s teaching museum on its 10th anniversary. Learn more.
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ALSO ON HYPERALLERGIC
How the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Might Curtail Antiquity Theft
The bottom line is that current laws on the trade of antiquities are insufficient, allowing the looting of culturally significant property to continue. | Salisha Kayum
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IN MEMORIAM
Mira Calix (1971–2022)
South Africa-born electronic musician and sound artist | Guardian
John Korty (1937–2022)
American film director and animator | New York Times
Taylor Hawkins (1972–2022)
Foo Fighters Drummer | Pitchfork
Dirck Halstead (1937–2022)
American photojournalist | Washington Post
