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The April Culture Guide

The Frick reopens, Cartier enchants at the V&A, and Milan Design Week sets the stage for the biggest week in design.

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The Frick Collection, after a multi-year renovation, is set to reopen to the public on April 17, 2025, at its historic Fifth Avenue home at 1 East 70th Street. The Fragonard Room at The Frick Collection in New York City. Photo by Joseph Coscia Jr.

Culture is more than a moment—it’s a lens through which we experience the world. With the Assouline Culture Guide, we curate the most inspiring events, exhibitions, and destinations globally, offering a discerning perspective on what to see, where to dine, where to stay, and more.

Each recommendation is carefully selected to reflect a spirit of discovery, inspiration, and artistry, ensuring that every experience—whether an avant-garde exhibit, a storied hotel, or a culinary destination—adds depth to the way we engage with the world.

This is your essential monthly guide to the unmissable cultural moments shaping our time. Consider it an invitation to explore, be inspired, and immerse yourself in the extraordinary.

The Garden Court at The Frick Collection in New York City. Photo by Joseph Coscia Jr.

New York City

What to See: The long-awaited reopening of The Frick Collection marks a new chapter for one of the city's most treasured museums. With its masterpieces by Bellini, Rembrandt, and Vermeer now reinstalled in the restored Gilded Age mansion, the Frick once again offers an intimate encounter with world-class art in an exquisite architectural setting.

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Where to Eat: First, they did Basque food on the Lower East Side. Now, the people behind Ernesto’s are bringing a taste of Madrid to the West Village with Bartolo. Expect rustic tavern-style fare, a serious sherry list, and an atmosphere that feels straight out of Spain.

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During its 62nd edition, the Salone del Mobile Milano will promote the culture of design and strengthen its relationship with the city of Milan by presenting Design Kiosk, a temporary space offering a rich cultural program, selected publications, and exclusive products tied to the world of design. One of the talks will be hosted by Piero Lisoni, an Italian architect, art director and designer recognized as one of the masters of contemporary design who designed The Dorothea Hotel in Budapest. Photo by ©Tommaso Sartori.

Milan

What to See: Milan Design Week (April 8–13) is more than a furniture fair—it’s the heartbeat of global design. With immersive installations, visionary interiors, and cutting-edge collaborations, Salone del Mobile, Alcova, and many more set the tone for what’s next in the world of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and innovation.

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Courtesy of Watches & Wonders.

Geneva

What to See: Watches & Wonders (April 9–15) is the most anticipated event in horology, bringing the world’s top watchmakers together for an exhibition of craftsmanship, innovation, and design. From heritage maisons to independent artisans, this is where the future of timekeeping is unveiled.

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Mirroring: Lucio Fontana and Michelangelo Pistoletto at the Prada Rong Zhai. Press images - Immagini stampa.

Shanghai

What to See: Prada opened the exhibition Mirroring: Lucio Fontana and Michelangelo Pistoletto at the Prada Rong Zhai in Shanghai. Curated by Sook-Kyung Lee, the show runs until June 15, featuring 26 works that explore two post-war Italian artists' innovative approaches to art, materials, and performance.

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What to See: Gucci is launching Gucci Bamboo: Decoding an Icon, an exhibition exploring the iconic Bamboo 1947 bag. Opening in Shanghai's Sunke Villa from March 28 to April 6, the exhibition traces the bag's evolution through archival materials and immersive installations. The exhibit highlights bamboo's cultural significance and its transformation from a natural material to a symbol of design excellence, celebrating the bag's enduring legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.

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Bandeau in Tutti Frutti style, English Art Works for Cartier London, 1928. Emeralds, rubies, sapphires, diamonds and platinum © Victoria and Albert Museum, London.jpg

London

What to See: Opening on April 12, the Victoria & Albert Museum’s Cartier exhibit explores the maison’s unparalleled influence on watchmaking and jewelry design. From the Tank to the Crash, the exhibition unveils Cartier’s most iconic pieces, showcasing how the brand has shaped the art of horology and high jewelry for over a century. A must-see for design lovers and collectors alike.

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Where to Stay: Nestled in Kensington near Earl's Court, Templeton Garden, officially opening on April 15, sits where literary legends like Beatrix Potter and Alfred Hitchcock once roamed. Their lush garden—a green sanctuary blending contemporary design with English elegance—offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of London's most storied neighborhood. 

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Our April Picks
All Books Technogym: The Art of Wellness
$160 USD
The Classics Collection Living with Chamberlain, Art in Residence
$120 USD
The Hospitality Collection Cheval Blanc
$120 USD
All Books Self Portraits: From 1800 to the Present
$150 USD

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