As the colder weather is just starting to hit the various cities in the Northeast and Midwest of our country, as well as most of Europe, the Miami climate is just starting to shine. If that isn’t reason enough to land on Miami’s sunny beaches, Miami Art Week is about to kick off the season with some of the art world’s most anticipated and exclusive exhibitions.
North America’s Premier Art Fair
Since its debut in 2002, Art Basel Miami Beach has come to dominate the thriving winter season in Miami. This year, the show is officially open to the public from Friday, December 8 to Sunday, December 10. However, there will be several invitation-only events and VIP previews happening the previous days.
Art Basel Miami Beach stages about 300 international galleries for the most renowned global collectors, curators, and museums—an unparalleled opportunity to delight in the sumptuous works and installations of renowned and upcoming artists.
The North American iteration of this world-class art fair has become a major draw to the city—inspiring many other important art fairs, events, and parties being held during what has become the Miami Art Week.
Art Basel remains, however, the crown jewel of the season and the main reason why art enthusiasts land upon Miami to start off the winter season with a bang.
My Art Basel Essentials and Personal Favorites
As a long-time Miami resident and art enthusiast, these are some of the events, exhibitions, and parties I would consider to be crucial to the Miami Art Week experience.
An Event: The Kick-Off of the Miami Art Week at the Faena Arts
On Tuesday, December 5, the Faena Hotel Miami Beach officially opens the doors to Spaces of Influence: Shaping Community in the Modern World, the first event of Miami Art Week 2023, with works by Sebastian Errazuriz and Kelly Breez.
Building on the sense of community so foundational to the Miami Beach lifestyle, the Faena District invites world-class, ground-breaking international artists to showcase their installations to the public with the belief that art serves as a powerful bridge to foster relationships and a sense of belonging among enthusiasts all over the world.
Art Fairs, Shows, and Museums: Art Basel, Design Miami, and the Rubell Museum
There are a number of art shows and fairs throughout Miami Art Week and—although Art Basel remains the crown jewel of them all—there are a few others I visit every year, such as Scope, Untitled, and NADA.
However, my absolute must-see is Design Miami, starting on Tuesday, December 5 with its invitation-only preview day.
A more permanent feature of the Miami art scene but also one of my personal favorites is the Rubell Museum, which houses one of the most significant collections of contemporary art in the world.
Fine Dining: Italian and Continental Cuisine
In the heart of the Miami Design District, Contessa—from the team at Major Food Group—is a glamorous dining destination that will transport you to the shining shores of Lake Como with a range of signature dishes made with the finest Italian ingredients.
Also draped in European glamour, The Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller presents a Continental cuisine experience in a carefully choreographed fashion. Having earned one Michelin Star, the food and signature libations are sure to impress. Pro-tip: stop by the Hotel lLobby’s Champagne Bar after Dinner for a nightcap.
A Party: Art With Me at Virginia Key Beach Park
Beginning Friday, December 8, this three-day electronic music and art festival for all ages is set to take over Virginia Key Beach Park with an epic lineup, art installations and galleries, yoga and dance classes, craft and mindfulness workshops, and activities for children in this thriving waterfront.
My absolute favorite of the week is, of course, the Alexander Team’s exclusive Art Week party, which—as always—promises to be the event of the year for OFFICIAL’s and the Alexander Team’s VIP clients. Are you on the list?
Luxury Living During the Miami Art Week
The start of the winter season is one of the best times to visit Miami. If you’re planning on attending Art Week, it can also be the perfect time to look for a Miami residence. These are my top choices of luxury properties available in Miami at the moment.
One of the most spectacular estates in Miami Beach is 5050 N Bay Rd. Recently reimagined by Dara Huang, its sophisticated design is perfect for a discernible buyer who appreciates a resort feel to a home.
This classically elegant estate rests on an oversized 32,085 sq. ft. lot with 139 ft. of waterfrontage, which provides breathtaking unobstructed views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay.
A more boutique choice, and one in the middle of the action, is 1 Collins, Unit 308. Its location in South of Fifth allows you to enjoy the beach by day, and head on over to the fairs in just minutes.
Enter a boutique building by renowned architect Enrique Norten and exit a private elevator directly into this 3,041 sqft. turn-key corner residence with views overlooking Ocean Drive, across the street from the beach.
A bit removed from the hustle and bustle of the art fair crowds is 1220 S Biscayne Point Rd. This remarkable waterfront 5,423 SF residence is an oasis for owners looking to indulge in the Miami lifestyle and enjoy relaxing days in this open-concept home which boasts a gourmet kitchen with Sub-Zero appliances and an abundance of natural light, 70 Ft of water frontage, and a dock for storage of your boat.
When it comes to views, this PH at 10 Venetian Way has some of the best in the city. Close to the Miami Beach Convention Center where Art Basel takes place, this 4,750 sq. ft. two-story residence features floor-to-ceiling windows for an unparalleled view of the City Skyline and Intracoastal Waterway.
This home in the sky on Belle Isle is perfect for entertaining both in the dining area with an open kitchen and on the wrap-around balconies.
To explore these exclusive properties and experience the unique atmosphere of Miami Art Week, reach out to me today, and together, we'll turn your vision of South Florida luxury living into reality.
ISAAC LUSTGARTEN
EMAIL: [email protected]
MOBILE: +1 (305) 695-6025
OFFICE: +1 (305) 539-0071
ADDRESS: 1410 20th Street Suite 212, Miami Beach, FL 33139
LICENSE #: 3332063
Isaac Lustgarten is a Miami-based real estate professional specializing in luxury home and condo sales, investment purchases, and real estate management. Originally from Colombia, he moved to Miami at a young age and is one of the leading real estate salespersons on The Alexander Team at OFFICIAL, named the number one team in the country three years in a row by Real Trends & Tom Ferry The Thousand.