By Claire Wooden, Art Specialist
In the vibrant stage of contemporary art, the arrival of December not only brings the festive spirit but also the anticipation of Art Basel Miami Beach.
This event, which has evolved from its humble beginnings in Switzerland in the 1970s to become a renowned international fair, remains a beacon for art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Founded in Basel by Ernst Beyeler, Trudl Bruckner, and Balz Hilt, Art Basel had a modest start with 90 galleries and 30 publishers from 10 countries. However, it quickly captured the attention of over 15 thousand visitors seeking a unique artistic experience. In 1999, the fair took a significant turn by moving to vibrant Miami Beach, becoming an international phenomenon and an invaluable opportunity for Latin American collectors.
In the context of the “Art Week” that envelops the city, Miami becomes the artistic epicenter of the world. Activations, openings, and exhibitions unfold, creating a visual symphony that embraces locals and visitors alike.
The Prelude: Preliminary Experiences
The art week officially kicks off on December 4th, but since the last days of November, Miami has been alive with various activations. At the W Hotel in Miami, the exhibition by contemporary French artist Stephane Koerwyn titled “Making the Invisible Visible” opens its doors, exploring the dimensions of aluminum and the creation of large-scale works.
Highlights on Miami’s Artistic Horizon:
- Art Miami + Context (December 5th): This showcase, extending until December 10th, presents significant works from the 20th and 21st centuries. This year, it pays tribute to the recently deceased Fernando Botero, highlighting his monumental contribution to the history of Colombian art.
- Aqua Art Miami (December 6th): The seventeenth edition of this gallery encounter provides a unique platform for emerging and mid-career artists to showcase their work, giving collectors the opportunity to discover new voices in the world of contemporary art.
- Reyna Noriega at Nautilus Sonesta Miami Beach (December 6th): The presentation of multimedia and multidimensional art installations by Reyna Noriega takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant identity of the Cuban-American artist.
- Vintage Frames Company and Trevor “Trouble” (December 7th): A unique partnership presenting prints inspired by “Trouble,” displayed in The Goodtime Hotel’s showroom. The night culminates with an unforgettable party at LIV Miami, featuring DJ Tiësto.
- Art Basel Miami Beach (December 8th): The main event opens its doors at the Miami Beach Convention Center, promising an impeccable selection of galleries, artists, and artworks capturing the essence of contemporary creativity.
Exploring Beyond the Doors of Art Basel:
- Upper Buena Vista (December 8th to 10th): This open-air shopping center offers a public installation transforming the shopping experience into a fluorescent paint tunnel, immersing visitors in a unique visual experience.
- Six Decades of Gold. Warhol Meets Marilyn at Nautilus Sonesta Miami Beach (December 8th): An event paying homage to pop art over six decades, celebrating the fusion between Andy Warhol and Marilyn Monroe and their lasting impact on the art world.
Art Basel Miami Beach is not just an art fair; it’s an experience that transcends gallery walls and merges with the very essence of Miami. From masterpieces in the Convention Center to outdoor installations, the city becomes an expansive canvas where art comes to life, blending with the unique energy of Miami. Being in the “Art Week” in Miami is to immerse yourself in a visual whirlwind capturing the diversity, innovation, and passion of the contemporary art world.
Claire Wooden, Art Specialist
