Overview
- ARTnews and Hyperallergic published year-end selections naming the most compelling New York exhibitions of 2025.
- Critics described a shaky ecosystem with dealer anxiety, gallery closures, the deaths of major collectors, and leadership turnover.
- Institutional strain surfaced as the Whitney paused its Independent Study Program over a Gaza-related performance controversy.
- Signs of recovery included the Frick Collection and the Studio Museum in Harlem reopening, with the New Museum scheduled to return in 2026.
- Resilience showed in tiny galleries and artist-led efforts, while notable shows featured Amy Sherald, Coco Fusco, Nayland Blake, Joyce McDonald, and Iván Argote’s High Line commission.