Source: Arturo Holmes / Getty
If you find yourself in Miami this week, you’ll likely notice the streets are a little more vibrant, the people are a little more fashionable, and the air buzzing with creative energy. That’s because it’s Art Basel week! This electric event has been going on in Miami since 1970, and was developed as a way to bridge the gap between North and South American markets, as well as celebrate local artists and the beautiful diversity of the region.
It’s technically a franchise, with Art Basel events happening around the country and the world since even before the Miami outpost. The greats like Picasso and Jean Arp had pieces in some of the earlier renditions, and top art collectors around the world would make the trip to peruse and purchase. But, Miami’s Art Basel week has become, without question, the hottest one to visit.
It attracts thousands of tourists and even celebrities from the likes of Cardi B to Travis Scott. In addition to galleries and unique venues displaying art, there will be parties and events happening throughout the week-long extravaganza. Miami does their Art Basel the way only Miami can. Here are Black-focused events to check out during Art Basel 2022 in Miami.
The Crown We Never Take Off
Dec. 2 – Dec. 3 (Soho Studios)
RSVP here.
This Art Basel activation is the first ever put on by Amazon Prime at the world-renowned event. It is a nod to Prime’s new series Riches, and will cover an array of work from Black artists in several mediums. The focus of the series – curated by arts administrator and cultural producer Donnamarie Baptiste – is to bring to light the exploited and underappreciated efforts of Black entrepreneurs and artists throughout history. From the exhibit’s website: “These artists weave their own rich histories with the realities of the world to create an affirmative place where Blackness thrives.”
Prizm Art Fair: Vernacular A La Mode
Nov. 29 – Dec. 4 (Global/Borderless Caribbean Pavilion)
Find more information here.
Vernacular A La Mode is a series of presentations curated by Marie Vickles, Mikhaile Solomon and William Cordova. It serves to show how much of the practices and trends seen in the fine art world today are rooted in African culture and artistic techniques. Several galleries at the Prizm Art Fair along the pavilion will be participating in this series and showcasing works from a handful of Black and local artists in various mediums.
Story Nightclub: Basel Edition
Dec. 3 – Dec. 4
Get tix here.
Story Nightclub, one of Miami’s premier clubs delivering unforgettable performances and experiences, will be hosting a special event in honor of Art Basel. Expect appearances by Cardi B, A$AP Rocky, Deadmau5, and the Martinez Brothers.
The Art of An Athlete
Dec. 3 – Dec. 4 (N’Namdi Gallery)
Get more info here.
Little Haiti’s N’Namdi Gallery will be featuring Harlem Globetrotter Maxwell Pearce’s “The Art of An Athlete” show on Dec. 3 and Dec. 4. This energetic exhibit features mixed media works that take a close look at diversity amongst the Black athletic community and aims to explore the individuality of Black athletes beyond their physical capabilities.
American Express Presents SAVOR & SOUL
Dec. 1 and Dec. 2
Get tix here.
Savor & Soul is a part of a culinary series of events being hosted by American Express and the reservations app Resy. These intimate dining experiences will feature world renowned chefs who will curate multi-course menu such as James Beard-award winner and Southern cuisine queen, Chef Mashama Bailey. As well as an art installation by artist Phillip K. Smith III. All events will be held at a pop-up space in Miami’s Design District.
Rock Roll By Germane Barnes
Ongoing through Art Basel week.
Follow the artist here.
Every year, Miami’s Design District awards a local creator its Annual Design Commission to create their own installations during Art Basel week. This year’s has gone to Miami-based architect Germane Barnes, who is using his installation to celebrate the BIPOC communities that make up the vibrant culture of Miami. Barnes’ large and interactive installations are inspired by Miami Carnival – expect massive wind chimes that sound like Soca music, moving parts and lots of color. These installations can be seen throughout the city.
Didier William: Nou Kite Trout Sa Dèyè
Dec. 3 (Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami)
Get more info here
On Dec. 3, the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami will host artist Didier William’s first solo show “Didier William: Nou Kite Trout Sa Dèyè.” William was raised in Miami but born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. His show will feature over 40 paintings, prints, and sculptures taking a critical and analytical look at the Black experience in America, with a close focus on the Black queer experience.
