Must-See May Exhibitions for Art Enthusiasts

May Art Exhibitions to Enhance Your Pre-Summer Travel Plans

As the summer sun approaches, May presents a perfect opportunity for travel. If you’re planning a getaway, why not sprinkle a dose of culture into the mix? Art exhibitions worldwide are showcasing incredible talent and innovative ideas that can deepen your travel experience. Here’s a selection of must-see exhibits for art lovers this May.

La Serena Forte dei Marmi, Milan

Nestled in the glamorous Forte dei Marmi, the newly renovated La Serena hotel is transforming itself into a hub for contemporary art. This venue is committed to promoting Middle Eastern artists through rotating exhibitions curated by Dubai-based Tabari Artspace. This month, behold the stunning works of Egyptian-Palestinian artist Samo Shalaby. His Memento Mori series showcases vibrant acrylic paintings encased in antique French and Italian frames. The pieces, rich in surrealist flair, embody a magical realism that invites you to reminisce about time and memory. This exhibition runs until October 2025, making it a long-term highlight for your travel map.

1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, New York City

For those in New York from May 8-11, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is unmissable. This year’s fair will spotlight the works of Massoud Hayoun, who draws inspiration from his Egyptian and Tunisian heritage. Known for his evocative scenes and portraits, Hayoun’s work interrogates themes of exile and loss while celebrating the healing power of community and culture. His paintings, displayed through London gallery Larkin Durey, are sure to resonate, showcasing the depth and complexity of human experiences. This fair promises a vibrant artistic atmosphere that’s ideal for immersing yourself in contemporary African art.

Qatar: Close to my Soul, Doha

In Doha, the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art presents Qatar: Close to my Soul, showcasing art from the esteemed collection of Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, son of Qatar’s former Emir. Running until August 9, 2025, this exhibition features works from the 1960s onwards by Qatari artists. Visitors will experience an evolving narrative of creativity that coincides with the country’s cultural and social transformations over the decades. The exhibit includes not just paintings and sculptures, but also installations and archival materials that chronicle pivotal moments in Qatar’s vibrant art history.

I Am Soil. My Tears are Water., Efie Gallery, Dubai

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook Dubai’s burgeoning art scene, especially with the opening of Efie Gallery’s new two-story space in Alserkal Avenue. Celebrating this new chapter, the gallery showcases a monumental solo exhibition titled I Am Soil. My Tears are Water. by Cuban artist María Magdalena Campos-Pons. This extensive collection of over ten paintings captures the essence of flora and fauna native to Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Through vibrant colors and intricate designs, Campos-Pons symbolizes the shared spirit among these dynamic regions. This exhibition is on display until May 24, 2025, promising a feast for the senses.

By weaving these art exhibitions into your travel itinerary, you’ll not only enrich your journey but also engage with the innovative expressions of artists from various corners of the globe. Whether you find yourself in Italy, the U.S., Qatar, or the United Arab Emirates, these artistic highlights undoubtedly add depth and insight to your May getaway.