ART BASEL HITS THE STREETS OF MIAMI

ART BASEL HITS THE STREETS OF MIAMI

The culturally refined crowds flocked to Miami this past week for the internationally acclaimed Art Basel.

This chic and sophisticated event brings attendees modern and contemporary art from 260 galleries and 2000 artists spanning the globe combining a touch of fashion in the event as well.  North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa were all well represented  with the very best talent.  Everything from sculptures to paintings to photographs impressed and amazed.

The 11th edition of Art Basel  drew in intrigued enthusiasts over a five day period.  Not only were they treated to the artwork of well-established artists but cutting-edge newcomers exhibited their work as well.  Performance art, public art projects and video art provided a worthwhile escape and an avenue to showcase the miracle of the art master.

The local museums played an integral part in conveying the beauty and design of the work for art dealers, collectors and curators around the globe.  It was a chance to experience rare museum-caliber artwork at its best.

The trendy South Beach hotels and clubs welcomed visitors giving them a reason to party with pleasure into the early morning hours.  From parties to pop-ups, the city provided the elegant backdrop for originality and class.  Fashion had a large presence at the event giving it the touch of style.

It all kicked off on Wednesday, December 5, 2012, as trend-setting designers such as Stella McCartney and Valentino joined the party. On Thursday, December 6, 2012, the highly sophisticated Prada unveiled their latest flagship boutique in the Miami Design District. The brand gave anxious attendees a preview of their Resort 2013 Collection with dark bold colors and clean lines and silhouettes. This latest store will carry women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories and footwear and position them more advantageously in North America.

Spotted on Friday, December 7, 2012, was delightful Donna Karan at a book signing and a myriad of glistening and glamorous jewelry collections for art lovers to critique and crave all the while. Taking in the sumptuous scenery was Victoria’s Secret angel and sought-after model,Karlie Kloss, among others that rank high in the world of fashion. The chic House of Chanel hosted a private benefit dinner that raised over $1M on December 5, 2012.

A big treat for Art Basel was the arrival of Diane von Furstenberg who shared some time with Russell Simmons. You could say that she has moved into the art design world as Evian Natural Spring Water introduces their limited-edition bottle in 2013 designed by Diane herself with the theme‘Water is Life is Water’ which is etched on the bottle/glass.

Cartier held an exclusive dinner and jewelry exhibit at its Design District Boutique in honor of its launch of the Naturellement Collection in a set designed by landscape artist Christophe Ponceau.

One of the most talked about events of the week was “The Lost Beatles and The Lost Rolling Stones Photographs” exhibit by Bob Bonis.

Timo Weiland, a designer extraordinaire, was caught kicking back at the Freehand Miami Hotel.

The art world wouldn’t be complete without Christie’s.  A private dinner was held at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami to preview Christie’s London surreal, modern and impressionist art sale and attracted only the most elite clientele.

Bringing fashion into the forefront was Carrera who teamed up with Architectural Digest to celebrate the release of three new eyewear styles.  Viewers enjoyed Wifi, live art and gratis beauty treatments.  LaCoste celebrated a limited-edition tee in partnership with the Campana Brothers.

When you think art, you think Andy Warhol and 25 original Warhol silkscreens were up for viewing at the Fendi Casa Luxury Living Showroom.

Philanthropy stepped forward as amFAR hosted “The Inspiration Miami Beach Party” to benefit AIDS research with appearances by Solange and DJ Kiss at the Soho Beach House.

Book signings were bountiful as Calvin and Kelly Klein were spotted along with Pharrell Williams and Bruce Weber.

Julian Lennon was overseeing a special photography exhibit which caught the attention of many.

As the days creeped into only hours, the festivities began to wind down and Saturday evening, December 8th, 2012 , the excitement moved to the Miami Art Museum as the “Crash The Ball” took place to give everyone involved in Art Basel a chance to socialize and have more fun.

Sunday, December 9, 2012 brought the event to an unforgettable close with an overflowing champagne brunch followed in the evening with a climatic party.

Everyone enjoyed and Art Basel had another successful year once again as it is continued to be labeled one of the most prestigious events in all of the Americas.

PHOTO CREDITS:  Getty Images, Micaela Hood