Must-Visit Art Exhibitions Around the World in 2025
Art exhibitions are a fascinating way to explore creativity, cultural heritage, and contemporary trends. In 2025, the art world will showcase a wide variety of exhibitions, ranging from historical retrospectives to cutting-edge contemporary art. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, attending these exhibitions will offer a chance to experience diverse artistic expressions and ideas.
Here are some of the must-visit art exhibitions around the world in 2025, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the most talked-about art shows of the year.
1. The Venice Biennale, Italy
Dates: May – November 2025
Location: Venice, Italy
The Venice Biennale is one of the most prestigious and long-standing art events in the world, attracting visitors and artists from across the globe. Held every two years, this event showcases contemporary art in a variety of media, from installations and sculptures to digital art and performance. In 2025, the Venice Biennale will once again transform the city into an open-air gallery, with national pavilions and exhibitions scattered throughout its historic venues.
Art lovers can look forward to seeing the latest works from international artists and curators. The Biennale often explores thought-provoking themes such as global issues, environmental challenges, and the intersection of art and technology. It’s an unmissable event for anyone interested in experiencing the cutting edge of contemporary art.
2. Art Basel, Switzerland
Dates: June 2025
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Art Basel is a premier art fair that brings together some of the world’s most renowned galleries, artists, and collectors. Held in Basel, Switzerland, this event is a global meeting point for contemporary art and offers a unique opportunity to see a wide range of works, from paintings and sculptures to installations and digital art. Art Basel is known for showcasing both emerging talent and established artists, making it a fantastic platform for discovering new artistic voices.
Visitors to Art Basel 2025 can expect to see cutting-edge works from top galleries and artists, as well as participate in various talks, events, and collaborations. Whether you’re an art collector or a passionate viewer, this exhibition will offer a wealth of inspiration and insight into the world of contemporary art.
3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Special Exhibitions, USA
Dates: Ongoing throughout 2025
Location: New York City, USA
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City consistently hosts some of the most impressive exhibitions in the world. In 2025, The Met will feature a range of special exhibitions that cover everything from ancient art to modern masterpieces. While the exact lineup of exhibitions has yet to be announced, visitors can expect to see world-class collections spanning across various genres, such as European painting, Asian art, and even fashion design.
Notable exhibitions in the past have included retrospectives on renowned artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso. The Met also offers thought-provoking exhibitions focusing on art history, cultural exchange, and contemporary social issues. For anyone visiting New York in 2025, The Met is a must-visit institution.
4. National Gallery: Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age, UK
Dates: March – July 2025
Location: London, United Kingdom
In 2025, the National Gallery in London will feature a major exhibition dedicated to the Dutch master, Rembrandt, and the artists of the Dutch Golden Age. This exhibition will highlight Rembrandt’s innovative techniques, his exploration of light and shadow, and his powerful portrayals of human emotion. It will also include works by his contemporaries, showcasing the rich artistic landscape of 17th-century Netherlands.
Art lovers can expect to see iconic works such as “The Night Watch” and “Self-Portrait with Two Circles” alongside lesser-known masterpieces. This exhibition will be a deep dive into Rembrandt’s genius and his lasting impact on the art world. It’s an unmissable event for lovers of classic European art.
5. The Louvre: Celebrating the Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci, France
Dates: May – September 2025
Location: Paris, France
2025 marks the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death, and the Louvre Museum in Paris will be hosting a major exhibition in celebration of his life and work. This exhibition will explore the genius of one of history’s most renowned artists and his lasting impact on art, science, and innovation. It will feature iconic works such as the “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” as well as lesser-known sketches, drawings, and inventions by Da Vinci.
Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of Da Vinci’s creative process, his approach to anatomy and engineering, and his unique vision that bridged the worlds of art and science. The exhibition will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the legacy of this extraordinary Renaissance artist.
6. Documenta 15, Germany
Dates: June – September 2025
Location: Kassel, Germany
Documenta is one of the most influential exhibitions of contemporary art, held every five years in the city of Kassel, Germany. Documenta 15 will continue the tradition of presenting experimental and often controversial art that challenges conventional ideas about society, politics, and culture. The exhibition brings together a diverse range of artists, from emerging voices to established figures, who create works that engage with global issues and spark dialogue.
In 2025, visitors can expect a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as climate change, migration, and social justice, presented through a variety of media including installations, video art, and performances. Documenta is a unique opportunity to experience some of the most innovative and challenging contemporary art of our time.
7. Sydney Biennale, Australia
Dates: March – June 2025
Location: Sydney, Australia
The Sydney Biennale is Australia’s largest contemporary art festival, featuring a diverse lineup of international and Australian artists. The exhibition takes place across multiple venues in Sydney, including the iconic Sydney Opera House and Pier 2/3. The 2025 edition will bring together more than 70 artists from around the world to explore global themes through innovative installations, performances, and multimedia art.
Known for its bold and experimental approach to contemporary art, the Sydney Biennale offers an exciting and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in visual art, performance, or new media, the 2025 Biennale promises to be a highlight in the global art calendar.
Conclusion
2025 will be a year filled with exciting and diverse art exhibitions around the world. From the prestigious Venice Biennale to the historic celebrations at the Louvre, there will be something for every art lover to explore. Whether you’re interested in contemporary installations, classic masterpieces, or groundbreaking new art, these exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to witness the power of art in shaping our cultural landscape.
Make sure to plan ahead and book your tickets for these must-visit exhibitions to ensure you don’t miss out on the global art events of the year!
