Betye Saar and Simone Forti Die; Trump Targets Smithsonian

The art community is grieving the passing of two prominent individuals: Betye Saar, an assemblage artist who died just four days shy of her 100th birthday, and performance artist Simone Forti, who was 91 at her time of death. Saar's creations celebrated Black resilience, while Forti was recognized for her inquisitive nature and dedication. In political news, President Trump mandated content warning signs at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, labeling it as 'anti-white,' a move that drew criticism from Ed Simon. A psychological study indicated that artists facing sexual assault allegations provoke stronger public backlash than those accused of murder. Additionally, Todd Caissie has been appointed as the new executive director of the Montclair Art Museum. Japan's Kumamoto Castle sustained damage from a 7.1-magnitude earthquake. The European Central Bank unveiled ten shortlisted designs for euro banknotes. Trump allocated $5 million for the regilding of two equestrian statues in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, the Museo Reina Sofía initiated a new exhibition series, and reviews at the Jewish Museum and Folk Art Museum delve into diverse artistic themes.