The new Obama Presidential Center officially opened on Chicago’s South Side, unveiling commissioned portraits and cultural exhibits meant to anchor civic life and community programming (US News). [P]Meanwhile a federal judge ordered the removal of Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center, pressing the administration to explain how renovations will keep public events running (USA Today), a reminder that politics still scripts who gets center stage. On the funding front, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is pushing for EU approval of a proposed $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts, a deal that could shift how big tech dollars flow into entertainment and arts-related IP (Yahoo/Finance).

Reis Çelik’s trauma-driven drama 'Night of Blindness' is emerging as an early frontrunner at the Shanghai International Film Festival, signaling appetite for intimate, politically charged cinema (Hollywood Reporter). [P]Disney released new concept art for The Wetlands at Lakeshore Lodge, a reminder that themed-resort design is increasingly a showcase for cinematic worldbuilding (WDWInfo). And in Houston, the Menil Collection plans to reopen its Byzantine Fresco Chapel as the Fresco Building in late 2027 — a timely restoration for anyone who loves textures, light, and quiet places to frame a shot (Houston Chronicle).