Art Basel Miami 2016 – What to expect!

For nearly 50 years, Art Basel has served as a gathering spot for the world’s premier art collectors. By presenting works from today’s preeminent artists, Art Basel pairs leading international galleries with art aficionados from around the world.

Art Basel hosts three annual fairs worldwide, but only one in the U.S. That show – Art Basel Miami – will be held Dec. 1-4 in Miami Beach (and neighboring areas), and is the lone opportunity for the art world’s elite to convene here in the States. The other fairs are held in the Swiss city of Basel and Hong Kong.

At Art Basel Miami, more than 250 galleries from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa will display modern and contemporary art along the pristine shores of this trendy South Florida destination.

For perhaps the best description of the Miami Beach show, look no further than the Art Basel website:

At the nexus of North America and Latin America, our Miami Beach show presents artwork from across the globe. The world’s leading galleries participate, drawing over 70,000 visitors each year.

With miles of sandy beaches dotted with classic Art Deco architecture, world-class art museums, and a glittering nightlife, Miami Beach ranks among America’s most iconic cities. During Art Basel, it embraces the artworld with special exhibitions at museums and galleries across the city, transforming the week into a dense and dynamic cultural event. 

What’s on display?

Paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs and films are among the many mediums to be presented at Art Basel Miami. The show will encompass multiple venues, including the main exhibition hall at the Miami Beach Convention Center, and Collins Park and SoundScape Park. More than 20 large sculptures will be displayed in Collins Park, and Art Basel Miami attendees are also invited to participate in the “Film” sector of the show, presented on a 7,000-square-foot projection wall at SoundScape Park.

In addition to the many magnificent pieces of contemporary art on display, other Art Basel exhibits in 2016 will include new projects by up-and-coming artists, magazines from around the world, and live performances. There will also be a diverse group of featured speakers and guest panelists who will share their knowledge with audiences at Art Basel Miami.

Speakers will include critics, collectors, curators and, of course, artists – so, regardless of your connection to the art world, there is sure to be information that appeals and pertains to you.

What’s going on?

Visitors to Art Basel Miami are able to view the various collections on their own or, if they prefer, can schedule guided tours.

Other attractions include art studio tours, breakfast and brunch receptions, and other must-see events. Those with VIP access receive additional perks, including admittance to First Choice and Preview events.

Want to attend?

The 2016 Art Basel Miami Beach show will take place Thursday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 4. However, there are also invitation-only events on Wednesday, Nov. 30. Show times are 3 to 8 p.m. on Thursday; noon to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Tickets can be purchased during the show dates at the Miami Beach Convention Center – located at 1901 Convention Center Drive – or online at www.artbasel.com/miami-beach.