Spring is shaping up to be an exciting season for art lovers and cultural explorers. From blockbuster museum openings to must-see exhibitions, our Member Services team has the inside scoop on where to go next.

Here’s what’s trending amongst Cultivist members:

VENICE

Opening to the public on 10 May, the 19th International Architecture Exhibition (Venice Biennale) brings bold designs and visionary ideas to one of the world’s most captivating cities. Curated by Carlo Ratti, this year’s edition features new exhibitors from the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Sultanate of Oman, Qatar, and Togo. Rumor has it that science will play a significant role, and we are eager to see the innovative contributions on display.

NEW YORK

The Big Apple has plenty to offer this spring. After a long-awaited renovation, The Frick Collection is set to welcome visitors back, with preview access beginning on 9 April and public access from 17 April. In June, the museum will debut its newly renovated first-floor galleries with Vermeer’s Love Letters. This exceptional exhibition unites Mistress and Maid, Love Letter (on loan from the Rijksmuseum), and Woman Writing a Letter (from the National Gallery of Ireland) in one space. It is a masterclass in quiet intimacy that highlights Vermeer’s fascination with domestic life and the inner worlds of his female subjects.

Meanwhile, The Met presents the blockbuster exhibition Sargent and Paris, opening on 27 April. This show explores John Singer Sargent’s deep connection to the City of Light, featuring the iconic portrait Madame X. This essential piece marks the culmination of Sargent’s early years in Paris, along with a series of preparatory sketches and select portraits of Parisiennes by his contemporaries.

MILAN

From 8 to 13 April 2025, Milan transforms during Salone del Mobile and Milan Design Week. After immersing yourself in the world of cutting-edge furniture design at the fairgrounds, we recommend exploring the city to experience contemporary design throughout Milan’s central neighbourhoods. Historic palazzos open their eclectic interiors to emerging talent, showrooms unveil the latest launches, and every corner offers a promise of discovery and exciting encounters.

JAPAN

From late March to early May, Japan’s cherry blossoms provide a stunning backdrop for an art-filled cultural getaway. Tokyo and Kyoto are popular destinations among our members, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern energy. On the iconic Naoshima Island, the highly anticipated Naoshima New Museum, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, will open on 31 May. Marking Ando’s tenth work at the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, the three-story museum will showcase a curated collection of major and commissioned works by prominent artists from Japan and across Asia.

Click HERE for a deeper dive into Japan travel.

MARRAKESH 

Marrakech remains a favourite among our members, offering sunny days and comfortably mild temperatures of around 30°C (far more pleasant than in summer!). 

MACAAL reopened last month following a major refurbishment and structural evaluation after the 2023 earthquake. For the redesign, the museum collaborated with scenographer Franck Houndégla to introduce a new media library and a permanent exhibition space, allowing for a broader display of African art from the Lazraq family’s private collection. Highlights include works by Joël Andrianomearisoa, Hassan Hajjaj, Abdoulaye Konaté, Chéri Samba, Malick Sidibé, Mohamed Melehi, Farid Belkahia, and Chaïbia Talal.

Meanwhile, Mahi Binebine’s exhibition Silent Elevations at the Mandarin Oriental has been extended until 20 May. Presented in collaboration with Galerie 208, the show features large-scale sculptures and vivid paintings, offering a deeply human perspective where each detail tells a story.

A visit to the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech is always a highlight. Nearby, the Majorelle Garden—once owned by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé—is a must-see. Its striking cobalt blue accents contrast beautifully with rare cacti, exemplifying exquisite garden design. Within the garden, the Berber Museum showcases an impressive collection of jewellery and garments, while the adjacent YSL Museum houses a permanent display of the designer’s iconic creations.

DUBAI

With Art Dubai 2025 returning from 18–20 April, the city is a top destination next month, buzzing with temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

You can find our top 5 highlights from around the city HERE.