In 2025, art and design history prominently featured in some of the most popular visual creations of the year. From Taylor Swift to HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” significant art world-pop culture intersections captured widespread attention. A Renoir painting appeared in a Wes Anderson film, a Taylor Swift album cover referenced John Everett Millais, and a Dieter Rams chair made its way into an episode of “Severance.” These instances highlight the enduring impact of the art world on broader cultural expressions, extending beyond the traditional realms of auctions, galleries, and museums. Ultimately, whether in music videos, television, or film, the aesthetic preferences of the creators make a powerful statement. Here, we explore nine of the most compelling crossovers of the year.
Painter Ronan Day-Lewis Transforms His Vision Into Film With ‘Anemone’
“Anemone,” the directorial debut of painter Ronan Day-Lewis, mesmerizes with its vivid visual storytelling. The film follows Ray, portrayed by the director’s father, Daniel Day-Lewis, who leads a solitary existence in the woods post-Irish troubles. As his brother reaches out, secrets of their challenging past and Ray’s abandoned son unravel. The younger Day-Lewis focuses on crafting a hauntingly beautiful world that reflects his years of artistic practice. “It was about translating early, impactful images into the cinematic language that builds a mythical sense,” Day-Lewis explained to Culture Editor Min Chen.
Spike Lee’s Art Collection Takes Center Stage in New Film
Spike Lee’s newest film, “Highest 2 Lowest,” features a unique connection to the art world. Set designer Mark Friedberg recreated pieces from Lee’s extensive art collection to enhance the film’s aesthetic. Starring Denzel Washington as a prominent record executive, the film showcases artworks by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kehinde Wiley, and others, providing a dramatic backdrop. Lee previously showcased his collection in a 2023 Brooklyn Museum exhibition.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Oak Park Home Shines in ‘The Bear’
The third season of FX’s popular show “The Bear” highlights Frank Lloyd Wright’s renowned Oak Park home and studio. In episode five, protagonist Carmen Berzatto discovers tranquility and inspiration within the architecturally significant space, noted for its meticulous craftsmanship. This marks the first time the site has appeared on television, complementing the show’s strong Chicago setting.
Taylor Swift’s Album Cover Channels Art Historical Themes
Taylor Swift’s album “The Life of a Showgirl” features a cover inspired by John Everett Millais’s painting of Ophelia. Photographers Mert and Marcus capture Swift in a striking pose reminiscent of the 1851–52 artwork. The album’s lead single, “The Fate of Ophelia,” presents a modern twist on the story, with a Kansas City Chiefs player rescuing Swift from a watery fate. Art books featured prominently in Swift’s appearance on a podcast hosted by her now-fiancé, Travis Kelce.
John Singer Sargent’s Influence on ‘The Gilded Age’
HBO’s “The Gilded Age” introduced John Singer Sargent as a character in its third season. The artist, played by Bobby Steggert, portrays a historical figure famous for capturing the essence of the era’s elite. In the premiere, Bertha Russell commissions a portrait of her daughter, Gladys, reflecting Sargent’s real-life work with prominent families. This storyline acknowledges Sargent’s cultural significance in understanding Gilded Age society.
Lorde’s Music Video and the ‘Earth Room’ Connection
Lorde’s music video for “Man of the Year” draws inspiration from Walter De Maria’s “New York Earth Room.” The video’s setting mirrors the 1977 artwork’s unique use of soil in a SoHo loft. Dia Art Foundation curator Matilde Guidelli-Guidi expressed enthusiasm for the artwork’s continued influence, noting its mysterious allure that invites contemporary reinterpretations.
Renoir’s Painting Stars in Wes Anderson’s ‘The Phoenician Scheme’
Wes Anderson’s film “The Phoenician Scheme” features a real Pierre-Auguste Renoir painting as part of its elaborate art collection. Art curator Jasper Sharp facilitated the inclusion of renowned pieces, enhancing the film’s rich visual landscape. The artworks provide a backdrop for the narrative, emphasizing the protagonist’s opulent lifestyle.
Ari Aster’s Film Poster Features David Wojnarowicz’s Art
For Ari Aster’s film “Eddington,” the promotional poster incorporated David Wojnarowicz’s powerful image depicting buffaloes falling from a cliff. This evocative artwork, created in 1988–89, originally symbolized the government’s neglect during the AIDS crisis. The poster serves as a poignant link between historical and contemporary public health challenges.
Dieter Rams Designs in ‘Severance’s’ Corporate Setting
“Severance,” known for its minimalist office design, prominently features Dieter Rams’s creations. The show’s production team included two of Rams’s iconic works in its second season: a Vitsœ 620 chair and a Braun stereo system, both exemplifying the designer’s commitment to functionality. These elements add depth to the dystopian environment depicted in the series.
