I have been attending Art Basel in Miami for around 6 years (with some covid interruptions). So, while I am by no means an expert, I have figured out how to best spend my time. While some go for the parties, the glamour, the people.  watching, I go for the ART. I try to see as much as possible without going into sensory overload (but let’s be honest, I usually go into sensory overload). Keep reading for my guide to Art Basel and the surrounding shows:

MUST SEE SHOWS:

This guide very much reflects my own taste, so keep that in mind! Below are the three shows that are consistent favorites year after year. 

Art Basil

Said to be North Americas most comprehensive international contemporary art fair, this is the largest and most established of the shows (and the real reason the others exist). You can find the very best emerging artists alongside the great contemporary masters. The show takes place in the Miami Convention Center and is massive, so give yourself plenty of time to explore (this year we split our visit up into two days, giving us time to take in the art without glazing over). 

Design Miami

A global forum for collectible design, Design Miami sits directly across from Art Basel. This is your show to explore the very bust functional art, from contemporary creations to vintage masterpieces.

Untitled

Right on the beach, this show is always a treat. A wonderful selection of international galleries showing the very coolest (in my opinion) emerging artists. This is one of my favorite shows to discover artists before they blow up.

IF YOU HAVE TIME:

NADA Founded in 2002, the New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) is a not-for-profit 501c6 collective of professionals working with contemporary art. This is another great spot to find emerging artists. Art Miami/Context Art Miami and Context are sister shows. They are two separate tents on the same property and one ticket will gain you admission to both shows. Here you will find contemporary art from emerging and established artists. However, I find that the work is similar year after year with very few new additions.

 ADDITIONAL SHOWS:

Aqua Art Miami, Scope, Ink Art Fair

READ LAUREN'S GUIDE TO THE ROUND TOP ANTIQUES FAIR >