Art Basel 2009: art explosion on SoBe
Art Basel Miami Beach is the sister event of Art Basel Switzerland, arguably the world's most prestigious art event. This year, Art Basel Miami will feature work from more than 2,000 artists from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and Latin America. See pieces from renowned artists and exciting new artists. Tourists, art collectors, curators and art lovers come from around the globe to attend this annual art frenzy.
Although the event technically takes place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, art installations, outdoor sculptures, site-specific exhibits and public works of art can be seen all around Miami. Park as close as you can and immerse yourself with art at every corner.
Come rub elbows with the art scene's cream of the crop during this art extravaganza. Many side events are not even publicized, so don't be surprised if you stumble upon free wine in a random gallery or a hot curbside performance.
A day ticket for the Convention Center is $35, and if you hustle, you can probably tour the interior in one day. Make sure to wear comfy shoes; you'll be doing lots of walking.
If you don't want to pay to get into the Convention Center, check out the free Oceanfront Nights between 21st and 22nd Street beachfront at Collins Park. Free events take place 6 p.m. to midnight during Art Basel 2009. Wednesday night groove to the Art Loves Music concert, Thursday and Saturday catch the Art Video Program and Art Perform. On Friday settle in for the Art Film feature-flick curated by Zurich's own This Brunner. If you're hungry, purchase light bites and drinks from The Oceanfront Cafe.
In the center of the Convention Center from 1 to 6 p.m. daily, visit Art Salon for cutting-edge open forums, talks by curators and artists, book signings, panels and presentations. Free Art Basel Conversations take place from 10 to 11 a.m. daily between 21st and 22nd Street at Collins Park. Hear topics such as Artist Talks, Change in Generation, Collectors Focus Latin America and The Future of the Museum.
Check the website for more detailed programming. For a full listing of Special Events and Exhibitions, click here and download the 2009 event flyer.
Daily tours are provided by ArtNexus art critics in both English and Spanish. Tours last an hour and cost $17 a head.
- by Jessica Bates, Hialeah Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jessica BatesJessica is a freelance journalist residing in lovely southern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and journalism. She writes for a green living publication, which she thoroughly enjoys. Once upon a time she was an editorial board member for Steel Toe Books choosing poetry manuscripts for publication.
