This week’s roundup covers compelling stories across arts, culture, and media that illuminate the intersections of creativity, commerce, and influence. From an urgent call to decommodify culture to the evolution of Ghana’s art scene, here’s what’s making waves:
1. Culture Beyond Commodification (The Art Newspaper)
A new publication by cultural economy professor Justin O’Connor argues for the decommodification of culture, urging its return to the public sphere. He critiques decades of neoliberal policy that turned art into a consumer good, emphasizing the need to restore culture as a public good alongside health and education. O’Connor highlights the stagnation of creative industries and calls for a reimagining of culture’s societal value.
2. Hip-Hop and Fashion: What’s Next (The Business of Fashion)
The once-dominant cultural and commercial power of hip-hop in fashion is facing new challenges as the space becomes increasingly saturated. Brands like Golf Wang and Cactus Jack thrive, but the competition demands more creativity and storytelling from artists. Gone are the days when graphic tees could sell themselves; building immersive brand worlds is now key.
3. YouTube’s Podcast Domination (WSJ)
YouTube has become the leading platform for podcasts in the U.S., surpassing Spotify and Apple with its massive reach. From living rooms to campaign strategies, the platform’s scale is unmatched, making it a media juggernaut. With 150 million people watching YouTube on their TVs monthly in the U.S., it’s redefining how and where people consume content.
4. Journalism’s Changing Landscape (NYT and Axios)
Newsletter platforms like beehiiv and Substack are reshaping journalism amidst industry turmoil. Beehiiv’s new multi-million dollar journalism fund aims to attract top talent, while Substack positions itself as a hub for thoughtful political discourse. These platforms offer a lifeline for journalists seeking independence and audiences craving niche, high-quality content.
5. Accra Cultural Week and Ghana’s Art Scene (The Art Newspaper)
Ghana’s art scene is no longer emerging—it has arrived. The third annual Accra Cultural Week spotlighted the country’s dynamic artistic talent, drawing global figures from institutions like the Tate and Sotheby’s. With artists like Amoako Boafo and El Anatsui leading the charge, Ghana is cementing itself as a key player on the international art stage.