Cultural Highlights: Art, Film, and Music Events This Week

Cultural Highlights of the Week

Cultural Highlights of the Week

While the untimely passing of Liam Payne from One Direction has left a heavy heart this week—prompting many to revisit the poignant melodies of ‘Night Changes’ in his memory—the world continues to unfold with a myriad of distractions. From the chilling resurgence of sinister, grinning figures in Smile 2 to the latest EP from the enchanting woodland singer Bon Iver, alongside one of the globe’s premier art fairs, Art Basel Paris, there’s a wealth of experiences to absorb or perhaps sidestep if horror isn’t your cup of tea. The Lumière Film Festival in Lyon is also in full swing, running until 20 October, where we’ve had the pleasure of engaging with notable personalities like Vanessa Paradis and Benicio Del Toro, who recently held a captivating masterclass. Additionally, the London Film Festival hosted by the BFI is nearing its conclusion—so be sure to snatch up any last-minute tickets; the lineup has been nothing short of stellar. Until next week, enjoy the vibrant cultural offerings!

Exhibitions

Exhibitions
‘Hew Locke: What Have We Here?’ at the British Museum (London, UK)

Guyanese-British artist Hew Locke presents a thought-provoking exhibition that critically examines the British Museum’s collection of artefacts, an institution that has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. Available until 9 February 2025, this compelling showcase features over 150 objects—most of which are sourced from the British Museum itself. Locke’s reframing of these items seeks to unravel their connections to the British Empire and colonialism, initiating essential discussions within a space that is in dire need of such confrontations.

‘Human, Prix Pictet’ at Cercle Cité’s Ratskeller (Luxembourg City, Luxembourg)

Among our most anticipated exhibitions this autumn, ‘Human, Prix Pictet’ showcases the work of 12 esteemed photographers shortlisted for the Prix Pictet award, all under the unifying theme of ‘Human’. This year’s winner, Indian photographer Gauri Gill, presents powerful images that chronicle over two decades of life in rural Rajasthan, India. Another remarkable feature is Icelandic photographer Ragnar Axelsson‘s exploration of Indigenous communities residing at the fringes of livable lands. Just opened, this moving exhibition will be on display until 19 January 2025.

Events

Events
‘Art Basel Paris 2024’ (France)

Now in its third edition, Art Basel has made its grand return to Paris, housed in the historic Grand Palais. Autumn is a bustling time for cultural events, and Art Basel stands out among them. Following the successful Frieze in London, this internationally renowned art fair began in Switzerland and has since expanded globally, with its Paris edition launching in 2022. With 195 exhibitors to explore, there’s much to delve into; we’ve compiled a preview of highlights here.

‘Barcelona Design Week’ (Spain)

Celebrating its 19th iteration, Barcelona Design Week is a paradise for design aficionados, situated in a city celebrated for its stunning Gothic and contemporary architecture. Running until 26 October, over 140 invigorating events will take place across the city, encompassing exhibitions, engaging talks, workshops, and even a participatory experience dubbed ‘Disseny en Diagonal’, which transforms Avinguda Diagonal into a vibrant space for community connection and creative expression. The overarching theme is ‘Design for Human Future’, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

‘Hamrun Chocolate Festival 2024’ (Malta)

This week brings a delicious twist with the Hamrun Chocolate Festival, transforming the city into a whimsical wonderland of chocolate delights on the evening of 19 October. Attendees can indulge in sweet treats, delve into the history of chocolate, enjoy chocolate face painting, and marvel at breathtaking chocolate sculptures. This event is a chocoholic’s dream come true, complemented by a festive costume procession, traditional folk music, and arts and crafts exhibitions. A truly delectable experience awaits!

Movies

Movies
‘Smile 2’

The brilliance of the Smile films lies in their ability to draw upon a simple yet profoundly disturbing concept: a human being with a grotesquely stretched, frozen grin. This unsettling expression embodies a menacing duality, transforming an image typically associated with friendliness into something deeply sinister. In this sequel, pop sensation Skye Riley (played by Naomi Scott) finds herself ensnared by the dreadful curse while on a world tour, witnessing those around her succumb to violent ends, forcing her to confront buried traumas. Read our full review here.

‘Rome Film Festival’ (Italy)

The excitement of film festival season is palpable, with the 19th edition of the Rome Film Fest currently underway until 27 October. Hosted at the Auditorium Parco della Musica—home to one of the largest red carpets in the world—this festival boasts an eclectic lineup, featuring some of our top picks such as The Substance, Emilia Pérez, Anora, and On Becoming a Guinea Fowl. There’s also a dedicated section for emerging filmmakers and film enthusiasts, alongside collaborative cultural events dispersed throughout the city. Don’t miss the full programme here.

Television

Television
‘The Office Australia’ (Prime Video)

Yes, yet another iteration of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s beloved noughties sitcom has emerged—this time set in Australia, post-Covid, and featuring a woman stepping into the role of the infamous bad boss, Hannah Howard (played by Felicity Ward). While the success of the American adaptation starring Steve Carell showcased the potential to reinvent British dark humor for a new audience, this version feels somewhat superfluous. The fresh yet lackluster ideas may dilute the original’s signature cringe factor. Nonetheless, for die-hard fans of both the UK and US series—who likely binge-watch them repeatedly—this provides a comforting blend of the familiar with a hint of novelty.

Music

Bon Iver: ‘SABLE, EP’

Oh, how we’ve yearned for the return of Justin Vernon. It’s been a five-year hiatus since Bon Iver’s last album, ‘i, i’, although he has remained active through collaborations with artists such as Taylor Swift, The National, and Charli XCX. His latest EP, ‘SABLE’, features just three tracks, yet encapsulates a profound depth of emotion. This raw and vulnerable collection meanders through a landscape of introspective reflections, grappling with themes of self-acceptance and hope. Read our full review here.

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