Tuesday, 17 February 2026
Henrike Naumann, a prominent German artist known for her installations exploring East German history and the complexities of reunification, died in Berlin on February 14 at the age of 41 after a late cancer diagnosis. She was set to represent Germany at this year's Venice Biennale alongside artist Sung Tieu, with the exhibition reportedly remaining on track despite her passing, according to the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen.
The White House has proposed that the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery create a dedicated section to display multiple images of President Donald Trump, alongside a second official portrait, despite the first portrait remaining unseen. This suggestion emerged during a December visit by Abby Jones, acting chief of protocol at the State Department, and White House photographer Daniel Torok. The proposal marks a departure from traditional practices, as presidential portraits are typically unveiled only after a president's final term.
Miguel Simon Mungarrieta Monsalve, 52, has been charged with stealing ancient Egyptian artefacts from the Abbey Museum in Caboolture, north of Brisbane, after allegedly breaking in with an axe. Prosecutors stated he believed it was his 'duty' to return the items, which included a mummy mask and a wooden cat figurine, to their 'rightful place.' He has been denied bail and will appear in court again next month.
Henry Pearlman will gift his collection of modernist masterpieces, which includes works by Van Gogh, Cézanne, Manet, and Modigliani, to museums across the United States, providing the last opportunity to view the collection in its entirety. This significant transfer marks a notable moment in the art world, as the collection is renowned for its historical and cultural value.
Gisèle Pelicot, a French woman whose husband was convicted of orchestrating a mass rape involving 53 men while she was drugged and unconscious, has published her memoir, "A Hymn to Life," on February 17. The book details her experiences of abuse and her decision to confront her attackers publicly, which contributed to a significant overhaul of France's rape laws following the 2024 case that garnered international attention.
One email per day. Unsubscribe anytime.