Over 460 Artists Protest Trump’s Anti-DEI Policy
In a powerful display of unity and defiance, more than 460 artists joined forces to send a resounding message to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The artists penned a letter to the NEA on Tuesday, vehemently opposing the restrictions on funding that were implemented following President Donald Trump’s executive orders. These orders specifically barred funding applicants from promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, a move that struck at the heart of the arts community.
The letter, a poignant plea for fairness and justice, was spearheaded by the esteemed New York-based writer and theater director, Annie Dorsen. In it, the artists eloquently expressed their firm opposition to what they saw as a betrayal of the NEA’s core mission. They emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where the arts can benefit everyone in the United States, regardless of background or beliefs. These sentiments were echoed by performance artist Holly Hughes, a member of the infamous “NEA Four,” who vividly recalled the painful repercussions of funding restrictions that target certain groups within American culture.
Lisa Schiff’s Regrets and Redemption
In a shocking turn of events, former high-profile art advisor Lisa Schiff found herself embroiled in a multimillion-dollar fraudulent scheme that unfolded over several years. After turning herself in to the authorities and pleading guilty in a Manhattan federal court, Schiff faced the stark reality of her actions. In a candid interview with The New York Times, she bared her soul and revealed the depths of her deception, likening her crimes to a veritable “art-world Ponzi scheme.”
The once-glamorous life that Schiff had led now seemed like a distant memory as she faced the prospect of up to 20 years in prison. Despite her past successes and extravagant lifestyle, Schiff confessed that she had never truly enjoyed the spoils of her ill-gotten gains. Her poignant reflections on the emptiness of her former existence struck a chord with readers, highlighting the human cost of greed and betrayal. As she grappled with the consequences of her actions, Schiff sought to make amends and set a better example for her son, acknowledging the pain and suffering she had caused to those closest to her.
Protests and Preservation: A World in Flux
As the art world grappled with political turmoil and personal reckonings, a wave of protests and controversies swept through the cultural landscape. Dancers took to the streets in Washington D.C. to perform The Nelken Line, a powerful act of resistance against Trump’s leadership takeover of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Similarly, advocates for trans equality and human rights rallied at New York City’s Stonewall National Monument, decrying the erasure of LGBTQ+ history from official narratives.
Meanwhile, in Peru, a tragic incident unfolded as a man caused irreparable damage to a 500-year-old Incan artifact, the twelve-angled stone. The man’s reckless actions, fueled by intoxication, shattered a priceless archaeological landmark and sparked outrage among conservationists and historians. In the face of such destruction, the importance of preserving our shared cultural heritage became all the more apparent, underscoring the fragility of the past and the need for vigilance in protecting it for future generations.
In the midst of these tumultuous events, voices of reason and resilience emerged. The Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tristram Hunt, called for innovative solutions to support cultural infrastructure, advocating for a tourist charge on visitors to fund essential programs. As art galleries faced economic challenges and closures, including the shuttering of London’s TJ Boulting after a decade of operation, the art world grappled with profound changes and uncertainties.
Frieze New York: A Beacon of Hope
Amidst the turmoil and tribulations of the art world, Frieze New York emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration. The prestigious art fair announced the participation of more than 65 galleries for its 2025 edition, showcasing a diverse array of talent and creativity. With Lumi Tan curating the Focus section for emerging galleries and lesser-known artists, Frieze New York promised an immersive and engaging experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
As the art world navigated stormy seas and uncharted territories, Frieze New York stood as a testament to the enduring power of art to unite, inspire, and transform. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, the art community found solace and strength in the vibrant tapestry of creativity and expression that Frieze New York represented. As the art world looked towards the future with hope and determination, Frieze New York shone brightly as a guiding light in a world in flux.
