Venezuelan Artists Mobilize After Deadly Earthquakes

In the wake of two catastrophic earthquakes in Venezuela, which have left over 50,000 individuals unaccounted for, local artists are rallying to assist in rescue operations, procure food and medical resources, raise funds for those affected, and offer emotional support. Senior Editor Valentina Di Liscia interviewed various members of Venezuela's artistic community, who recounted their experiences of suffering and strength. Artist Gloria Blancato, who was asleep in Catia La Mar, La Guaira, described how she narrowly escaped by leaping from her collapsing two-story home and now sleeps outdoors with her family. The article also reports that The Metropolitan Museum of Art's recently surrendered looted artifacts are valued at $95 million. Meanwhile, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the City Council have approved an unprecedented $323 million budget for the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs for Fiscal Year 2027. Additionally, the newsletter showcases ten art exhibitions to explore in Los Angeles this July, featuring artists such as Marc Kreisel, Gwyneth Bulawsky, and Barbara Carrasco. The community section pays tribute to Venezuelan painter Onai Quiñonez, German artist Rune Mields, and Korean museum director Song Burnsoo. Lastly, Diana Weymar's stitch art collaboration with the Economic Hardship Reporting Project is highlighted from the archives.