Summer Art Sightseeing

Summer evokes ideas of beach vacations, rising temperatures, picnics, etc. However, the season is also a time for traveling and sightseeing across the globe. There’s nothing like exploring the arts during blazing, sunny, long Summer days. With that in mind, here are some art-centric cities to explore during the hottest time of the year.

Busan, South Korea

As the second biggest city in South Korea, Busan is brimming with creativity, similar to SK capital Seoul. The city boasts several spots for visual art patrons, including Museum 1, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), and F1963. Serving as Southeast Asia’s film epicenter, Busan hosts the Busan International Film Festival and the Busan Cinema Center. For a more interactive view of the city, there are places like the UN Sculpture Park and the brilliant alleys of Gamcheon Cultural Village.

Cairo, Egypt

As Egypt’s capital city, Cairo is a hidden art gem in Africa. Spots like Medrar for Contemporary Art and Old Egypt for Fine Arts offer a variety of art from the traditional to the experimental. The performing arts are lively as venues like Access Art Space and Makan-Egyptian Center for Culture and Arts provide quality music and theatrical performances. For alternative outlets, try the historic Mohamed Mahmoud Street Graffiti.

Ibiza, Spain

Of course, the island state of Ibiza is known for its nightclub culture, but it’s also a thriving art scene. The beloved international haven boasts visual arts venues, including MACE (Museum of Contemporary Art), Marta Torres Gallery, and the Museo Puget. If you’re seeking music or theatre, venues like the Can Ventosa Cultural Centre, Ibiza Symphony Orchestra, and Teatro Ibiza will make you feel a part of the experience.

Marseille, France

Marseille is France’s central trading and port center, making it the next biggest art hub after Paris. Visitors can have the full visual arts experience through sites like Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille, MAC (Musee d’Art Contemporain), and Art-O-Rama. Visit venues like Espace Julien and Opéra Municipal de Marseille to get your performing arts fix. Street art is vital as seen during the Alexandra Blanc Véa’s tours of the Cours Julien neighborhood.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is the bastion of Australian art history. The waterfront metropolis boasts several notable museums showing art and culture across decades, including the Melbourne Museum, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, and Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT). The visual arts have a place in institutions like the Buxton Contemporary and NGV International. Multiple performing arts outlets exist, including the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and The Forum.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has served as a cultural influencer for decades across varying art mediums. Outside of the typical art fare, the thriving cultural center is home to visual art venues like MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), the Tokyo National Museum, and teamlab Planets. If public art is more your speed, Marunouchi Street Gallery and Tokyo Midtown Yaesu fit the assignment. Visit Kabukiza Theatre, Bunkyo Civic Hall, or the New National Theater when looking for outstanding performances.

Take a trip to these cities and have the most creative Summer of your life.

Originally published at http://adreonpatterson.net on July 18, 2024.