Francis Alys
Francis Alÿs (Belgium, 1959) is a conceptual artist based in Mexico City, known for poetic, interdisciplinary works blending performance, video, painting, and drawing. His projects often explore urban dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and the ephemeral nature of everyday life. Iconic works like Paradox of Praxis 1 reflect his profound engagement with labor and futility in modern existence.

Artwork by Miles Aldridge
What is contemporary art?
Contemporary art refers to avant-garde or innovative art created in the recent past or present day. The exact starting point of contemporary art varies depending on the institution, often tied to the founding year of museums or galleries that showcase the style. Contemporary art is characterized by its focus on current ideas, diverse media, and the exploration of new concepts and techniques.