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ONE on ONE

by Mayi de la Vega

A recap of my art adventures that kicked off season in the city

By Art, Travel

Notes from New York

A recap of my art adventures that kicked off season in the city. 

I recently visited New York for the Armory Show and the opening of the fall art season. With my trusted art advisor Sarah Jane Bruce in tow—who’s also helping ONE Sotheby’s acquire and curate works for our new Coconut Grove headquarters, a collaboration that further involves art advisor Flavia Masetto, we made the rounds to fairs, galleries and events.

The whirlwind week centered on the Armory Show, which introduced its first-ever Latinx direction, and Independent Art Fair, whose September edition focused on 20th-century art. At the Armory Show, I purchased a work by Hank Willis Thomas from Ben Brown Fine Arts, a London-based gallery with a branch in Palm Beach. Thomas, a Guggenheim fellowship recipient whose work has also been collected by the Whitney and MoMA, focuses on identity and pop culture, among other themes. I chose one of his lenticular text-based works, for which viewers must shift positions to understand wholly their contentas a commentary on how scenarios involve different perspectives. I’m going to display his inspirational work in my office and hopefully encourage this practice in all types of situations.

I would have loved to acquire a cardboard work from Marco A. Castillo’s Wakamba Series at Brazilian art gallery Nara Roesler’s booth, but it had already sold. He’s a founding member of Cuba-born collective Los Carpinteros, so it would be especially meaningful to me to have his work in my collection.

The late Loló Soldevilla represented by Sean Kelly, which had a booth at the Armory, is another Cuban artist on my radar. The sole woman strongly associated with Cuba’s geometric abstraction movement, she often used wooden pegs and plastic pieces from the toy factory where she worked. There’s much more than meets the eye to her minimal, multimedia works in black and white.

I’ve been exploring textures lately, so I’m also interested inJessica Dickinson’s abstract works on paper. James Fuentes Gallery gave the Brooklyn-based, Midwestern native a solo presentation, so I’m clearly not the only admirer. Needless to say, I’m considering several works by her.

It wouldn’t be an art fair without event-packed evenings. Highlights included Lisson Gallery’s dinner at the Bowery Hotel’s Gemma for Jason Martin and Masaomi Yasunaga; both have shows at its New York location through October 15. Jack Shainman Gallery hosted a reception for Hank Willis Thomas’s “Everything We See Hides Another Thing” on view through October 29. Marianne Boesky Gallery’s private reception and rooftop dinner for “Jammie Holmes: What We Talking About” celebrated the self-taught Southern artist’s inaugural solo show in New York. My son Daniel purchased a painting from the premiere. It greatly pleases me that my children show an enthusiasm for collecting and supporting the arts like their mom.Let’s hope it continues with my grandchildren too.

My New York visit got me pumped up for Florida’s art season. I look forward to Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami art week’s satellite fairs in December, as well as museum exhibits and benefits, and gallery shows from established destinations to new places and pop ups. It’s going to be a terrific season.

 

Hank Willis Thomas

 

Lolo

 

Marco Castillo

Wakamba Series

In Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

By Art, Culture, Dining, Events, Food for thought, Interior Design, Music, Philanthropy, Real Estate, Travel, Uncategorized

In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, we’re taking a look at celebrations up and down Florida’s east coast. Enacted into law in 1988, the monthlong observance’s dates were chosen since several Latin American countries’ independence days fall during the same time. There are many ways to explore and appreciate Latinx heritage, so read on for more details.

Arturo Sandoval Live

Multi-Grammy-winning, Cuban American trumpeter and composer Arturo Sandoval performs his biopic “For Love or Country: The Arturo Sandoval Story” live in concert with the Frost School of Music’s Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra at the Arsht Center on October 1 with a VIP after party. HBO’s freedom tale has been digitally remastered for the big screen.
arshtcenter.org

Known as the gateway to Latin America, the dynamic city of Miami is constantly evolving with the influx of new residents, visitors, businesses and brands from all over the world. There’s always something new and exciting to try, whether a starchitect-designed space, museum exhibit or hot restaurant. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Morningside | Wynwood – Midtown

Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Pompano Beach Cultural Center is going all out. Its Montage virtual film series screens Miami-based, Ecuadorian director Cinthya Franco’s “Los Colores de Marcia” on September 29. Cuban American opera soprano Eglise Gutiérrez and pianist Luis Urbina perform “An Evening of Spanish Romances, Zarzuelas, and Grand Opera Arias” on October 15.
pompanobeacharts.org

Located along the Atlantic Ocean in Broward County’s northeast corner, Pompano Beach is in the midst of a revival. Its newly renovated amphitheater joins treasured destinations like a namesake fishing pier. Pending additions include the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Pompano Beach and the Bite Eatery food hall. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
Pompano Beach

Jacksonville Taco & Tequila Festival

The 2nd annual Jacksonville Taco & Tequila Festival takes over Riverside Park from September 24-25. The benefit for Make-A-Wish, Boys & Girl Club and the Wagoner Foundation features live music on three stages, Mexican fare from dozens of vendors and a curated selection of tequilas to sample. Enjoy a local makers’ market, games and art installations, too.
904happyhour.com

Jacksonville, the largest city geographically in the contiguous U.S., boasts an incredible variety of green spaces and beaches, as well as prime waterfront from the Atlantic Ocean to St. Johns River with its iconic bridges. The city’s vast network of neighborhoods and islands further invites nonstop adventure. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
Jacksonville

Hispanic Heritage Exhibition

The Historical Society of Palm Beach County’s Johnson History Museum exhibits “Going Places,” a broad look at Hispanic local heroes who have greatly contributed to the region’s various industries such as hospitality, architecture and media, through December 30. It also hosts the Hispanic Heritage Panel Discussion & Reception on September 28.
pbchistory.org

West Palm Beach sits on the mainland directly across from the island of Palm Beach. The growing city has become a destination in its own right for convention and performing art centers, hip restaurants and shopping of all kinds from major brands to vintage wares. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
West Palm Beach | Palm Beach

Viva Brevard Gala & Festival

The Brevard Hispanic Center’s twofold fundraiser features the Viva Brevard Gala at a fine restaurant on October 8, followed by the Viva Brevard Festival at Fred Poppe Regional Park in Palm Bay on October 15. Both offer lots of Latin flair, entertainment, cuisine, a spotlight on local Latinx-owned businesses and, most of all, pride.
aldiatoday.com

 

Though most associated with the Kennedy Space Center, hence its Space Coast nickname, Brevard County offers so much more. Its world-class Brevard Zoo supports animal conservation, while its largest city Palm Bay is known for innovation and growth. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Indialantic | Melbourne Beach

Salsa & Flamenco

Recently renamed and added to the National Register of Historic Places, the Miami Beach Bandshell hosts a slew of themed performances starting with the Miami Beach Hispanic Heritage Celebration from September 24-25. Take salsa lessons with Melina Almodóvar’s Salsa Orchestra and Salsa Central Dance Studios, and watch Miami-based Ballet Flamenco La Rosa’s “Cielo Y Arena.”
northbeachbandshell.com

Rocky Mountain High

By Art, Culture, Events, Family, Fashion, Music, Travel

Aspen is my forever home in my heart 

One of the experiences I look forward to all year long is my family summer vacation in Aspen. From the moment the plane takes off, I feel like a different person because I’m heading to my happy place. Aspen is unique among ski towns for its enrichment of mind, body and spirit. I have to say that this balance works. I learn so much, while also tending to some much-needed self-care. The quality of the people and place constantly amazes me, and there’s always something new and exciting to see and do. Please enjoy this summer news so you too can come back refreshed and inspired. Have a wonderful time!

Sotheby’s Aspen Gallery

On the top of my list was visiting the new Sotheby’s Aspen gallery. It follows up its inaugural exhibit “In Focus: Warhol on Paper,” which runs through July 31, with a group show titled “Venice in Aspen” that highlights artists in this year’s Venice Biennale. Browse works for sale by Ruth Asawa, Barbara Kruger, Nan Goldin, Jacqueline Humphries, Louise Lawler, Kaari Upson and others from August 2-September 26. The gallery and Cultured Magazine co-host a cocktail reception on August 3 to kick off Aspen ArtWeek.

Aspen ArtWeek

Aspen Art Museum’s second edition of Aspen ArtWeek (August 1-6) culminates with its 17th annual ArtCrush Gala at Buttermilk Mountain on August 5. The weeklong program features art conversations and performances, private collection tours and the “ArtCrush 2022 Auction Exhibition” of more than 50 donated works by artists like Larry Bell and Patricia Leite. Bid online during Sotheby’s preview auction, which opens July 30 and closes August 6 during the gala’s dinner honoring artist Gary Simmons and live auction conducted by Oliver Barker, Sotheby’s senior director and chairman, Europe. Phone and absentee bids are welcome as well.

Special Events at The Little Nell

The Little Nell has a ton of fun food and wine events in the works. A roster of Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux chefs is on board for the second annual Little Nell Culinary Fest from August 30-September 2. In addition to being wined and dined by the likes of San Francisco-based Quince’s Michael Tusk, Maui-based Hotel Wailea’s Krista Garcia and master somm Jay Fletcher, guests will be treated to a soirée atop Aspen Mountain. Last year’s event sold out, so reserve early. Oenophiles who are interested in exploring sensational cabs from Paso Robles should also book An Evening With Patrimony Estate at The Little Nell on July 27. Co-proprietor Daniel Daou will attend and select complementary wines for Element 47’s four-course dinner. Hop on a bike for the Ride + Dine series on August 24 and September 14. Cyclists are rewarded with an al fresco meal at Mad Dog Ranch in Old Snowmass, Glenn Frey’s and Jimmy Buffet’s former stomping ground.

Sweet Summer Music

Aspen Music Festival widened its variety more than ever for its 73rd season. Though the classic composers are still strongly represented, new genres range from mariachi to a saxophonist’s Baroque piece. But one doesn’t have to visit the festival’s big white tent to hear incredible music. Concerts are popping up all over, such as Theatre Aspen’s Summer Cabaret Series at the Hotel Jerome, and Jazz Aspen Snowmass’s Café Summer Series at the Rooftop at Aspen Art Museum. Stevie Nicks and Chris Stapleton headline the JAS Labor Day Experience at Snowmass Town Park on September 2-4. Head to Snowmass’s Fanny Hill for Thursday concerts, or ride the gondola to Aspen Mountain’s Classical Saturdays and Bluegrass Sundays.

Shopping

When I’m not hiking or taking an exercise class, I like to get a workout by walking around town. I never tire of Aspen’s charming downtown and enjoy checking out the new shops and restaurants. A few Los Angeles brands with locations in the Miami Design District recently moved in:  Alo Yoga, Re/Done for new and upcycled vintage denim and John Elliott for men’s and women’s sportswear, Japanese denim and Italian shoes. For more flashy footwear, Mia Becar popped up at Peri.A boutique through August 15. Nappa leather espadrilles, raffia flatforms and bejeweled jelly sandals are among its selection handmade in Italy and Spain.

 

Raizado: The Latinx House Festival

Another sign that Aspen is constantly evolving for a more inclusive era is a new Latinx event premiering at Aspen Meadows resort and conference center from August 30-September 1.Raizado: The Latinx House Festival, Cultivando Nuestro Futuro will be a meeting of the minds to celebrate the Latinx community through art exhibitions, live music, film screenings, panel discussions and cuisine to empower one another with power, culture and truth. It’s even more meaningful to me since three women founded Latinx House. They named the festival after the concept of “deeply rooted” to emphasize how deeply rooted the Latinx community is within the fabric of our nation. I’m excited to see how their events grow and what they accomplish.

 

To all the mothers, Happy Mother’s Day!

By Art, Beauty, Culture, Family, Fashion, Holiday, Nutrition, Wellness

It’s important to honor these women who do so much for us and love us unconditionally. Here are some ideas to pamper them this holiday.

Heaven Scent

Fill her home with the heavenly scent of gardenias. California flower farm High Camp Supply ships cut-to-order gardenias overnight in luxe packaging. The Vine & Bloom box comes with gardenias two ways—as loose blooms and two dozen budding long stem vines. She’ll have fun arranging them in her favorite vessel.

Click below to purchase:

High Camp Supply

 

In the Bag

Mom is no exception when it comes to ladies who love handbags. Treat her to Bottega Veneta’s mini Jodie style made in Italy featuring the house’s iconic intrecciato leather. Colors range from neutrals to marine-inspired blues and greens. Colombian designer Michelle Daccarett also has chic handbags. Her signature style, handmade oak boxes accented with nylon strands and acrylic chains, are definitely conversation starters.

Net-a-Porter Bottega

Michelle Daccarett

Museum Day

PAMM has one of the coolest shows on view now, and we’re so lucky to have it. Organized by The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, “Marisol and Warhol Take New York” follows the interconnected careers of Paris-born María Sol Escobar, who went by Marisol, and Andy Warhol during the Pop Art movement of the Sixties. Marisol’s genius is being rediscovered, and her multimedia sculptures and installations depicting high society and pop culture are absolutely delightful.

PAMM Marisol Warhol

Spa Day

Under new ownership, the Standard Spa Miami Beach boutique hotel fully renovated its namesake spa. The makeover revamps popular amenities like the Turkish hammam and introduces amenities and upgrades from a cold room to reduce inflammation to multiple windows, including inside the sauna, for guests to enjoy bay views. Décor elements by Pierre Frey, Gio Ponti and House of Hackney were also used for new treatment rooms and a spa lounge with Danish rattan daybeds. Spa services are equally well-conceived. There are many to choose from, but the Sound Healing Massage with crystal bowls and Sea Change, a yuzu mimosa/sea algae wash and spirulina mud body mask, piqued my interest.

The Standard Spa

Books to Treasure

Women designers are finally getting their due in “Woman Made: Great Women Designers” published by Phaidon in collaboration with Kering.  Architect Jane Hall organized the thorough collection of designs by more than 200 women representing 50 countries. A few are Eileen Gray, Ray Eames and Florence Knoll, who lived in Miami.

Rich and I love wine country, so I’m hooked on “The New Architecture of Wine.” Through beautiful imagery and stories, readers travel vicariously to 25 spectacular wineries designed by architects like Howard Backen and Juan Carlos Fernandez and built during the 21st century. It’s the second best thing to being there.

The catalog to an exhibition at Paris’s Centre Pompidou, “Women in Abstraction” reevaluates the work of women’s role in this 20th-century art movement. More than 100 artists from painters to photographers to dancers are highlighted to reveal the overlooked story.

Woman Made: Great Women Designers

The New Architecture of Wine

Women in Abstraction

Dote on Mom

I’m very proud of my daughter, a mother herself to three children. She and her husband founded an organic wellness line called Dote. Their products are clean, eco and full of naturally beneficial ingredients like CBD, olive oil and chamomile. They’re vegan and gluten-free too. These sets make convenient gifts.

For the mother who enjoys at at-home spa day:

Unwind set with Relieve muscle cream and Calm tincture

https://dotewellness.com/products/calm-15ml-relieve

For the mother who deserves the sleep of her dreams:

Lights Out set with Dream supplement and Calm tincture

https://dotewellness.com/products/lights-out-calm-30ml-dream

For the mother who never misses her workout:

Peak Performance set with Power supplement and Relieve muscle cream

https://dotewellness.com/products/peak-performance-power-relieve

For the mother who deserves balance in her life:

Body in Balance set with Calm tincture, Relieve muscle cream and Dream, Focus and Power supplements

https://dotewellness.com/products/body-in-balance

 

My Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

By Art, Beauty, Holiday

Valentine’s Day! It is always a fun holiday to gift something to your significant other. Whether you are in, you’re in a new relationship. Or a super long-term one!

I say keep it traditional, don’t overthink it when it comes to Valentine’s gifts! Valentine’s gifts should be a mix of sexy, romantic, and sweets are always a nice bonus! After all… what’s wrong with a bit of romance?

Here’s a bit of inspiration for things I’d want and something I’d get my significant other.

FOR HER:

Bottega Veneta Cassette Intrecciato Leather Bucket Bag

 Kistler Chardonnay

 

 

 

Ellie Saab Nude Strass Sling Back

 

Tiffany Hard Wear Link Earrings

 

Mariana Font Art Piece

 

FOR HIM:

Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill

Audemars Piaget Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph

Beoplay H95 Noise Cancellation Headphones

Eberjey William TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set

Royal Ossetra Caviar

Fresh Beginnings

By Art, Family, Florida Finds, Travel, Uncategorized, Wellness

My big and small goals for the brand-new year.

Happy new year, and hope it’s off to a good (and healthy!) start. At the beginning of every year, I like to reflect on the road ahead. Building my business, raising my family and supporting my circle from colleagues to community dominated my life for so long. When we give and give, it takes its toll on us. Self-care has received a lot of attention in the media during the pandemic. It forced people to take a break from the rat race and focus on how they were really living. Many of us weren’t happy with what we saw. I’m reassessing what makes me happy and how to grow as a person. It can be challenging, even scary, but I know from my previous accomplishments that there’s no easy way to create change. I’d like to share my to-do list for 2022 from simple, everyday fixes to once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I’ve always dreamt of doing.

 

Move More
It’s all about movement for me this year. That may mean a brisk walk outdoors with the bonuses of vitamin D and fresh air, or more rigorous workouts that keep me on my toes so I don’t get bored. Consistency is key if you really want results. I hope to discover some new fun ways to keep my weight in check, strengthen my bones and core and glow from within. Dancing is one of the best ways to burn calories and improve mental health, so I definitely would like to incorporate more dancing into my exercise routine. Though you can certainly dance solo anytime, anyway, it’s also a great way to connect with your partner and friends. I just may get my grandkids to join me in a dance-off, too.

The Great Outdoors
I’d like to spend more time outdoors regardless of the activity. I’m going to listen to our ancient ancestors and benefit from nature’s healing powers, a practice that the Japanese refer to as forest bathing. Simply by living in Florida, we’re lucky to have close contact with the ocean and healing salt air, as well as its towering trees, wildflower-filled meadows and freshwater rivers and springs. I also hope to visit more places that offer outdoor activities with a wellness component like hiking and biking. It can be somewhere in my backyard or a faraway destination.

Bucket List Trips
I would love to take my family on an unforgettable vacation this year, such as Florence and its surrounding Tuscan wine country with stops along the Italian seaside too. Exploring this rich region’s nature, culture and history with loved ones has always been a dream of mine. After a long hiatus from my initial visit to St. Barth, I’m excited to vacation again in this piece of paradise. The Bahamas are one of my greatest loves, and their waters in surreal shades of blue are a continual source of rejuvenation and wonder for me. I take this image everywhere with me.

Creative Spark & the Pursuit of Knowledge

For many people, a bright spot in the pandemic has been picking up new hobbies or rediscovering old ones. I’d like to get back to my photography. I find the whole process very calming and rewarding. It makes you see the world differently, and there’s always room for improvement and the next amazing shot. It’s something I can do as I age too. It’s important to have a mix of activities that include those you can do more long term. I’d like to make time to read and review my books about art and photography for inspiration, and listen to podcasts especially on the subjects of wellness and self-improvement.

Setting Boundaries & Me Time

I won’t feel guilty about taking time for myself and focusing on my inward journey. When I’m at my best, I benefit those around me most. It’s also important to se boundaries for myself with people who zap my energy or don’t bring me joy. It’s okay to let go and live my best life!

My Gift Guide to You

By Art, Beauty, Family, Florida Finds, Holiday, Wellness

Don’t panic when it comes to holiday shopping. Here are some great gifts to wow them.

Like me, you have probably been busy with Art Basel fairs, holiday engagements, peak season business affairs and family life. There’s barely been a moment to think about holiday presents, let alone browse and shop for them in-person or online. I thought I could lend a hand by suggesting some beautiful and interesting gifts. Most importantly, take a moment to de-stress and enjoy this special time. Happy holidays.

Cool Books

I love to share “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” with everyone in my circle since it’s helped me so much. The authors reveal the Japanese philosophy about ikigai, which means “a reason for living,” and why the Japanese never retire because they love what they do. Readers hopefully come away with discovering their ikigai.

I treated my son Daniel to a copy of “Art House: The Collaboration of Chara Schreyer and Gary Hutton” published by Assouline. A visual feast for the eyes, it chronicles their 40-year collaboration of Hutton designing Schreyer’s five homes that showcase her magnificent collection of 600 artworks.

The Perfect Handbag

Need I say more than Chanel?! The Parisian fashion maison recently opened a flagship store in the Miami Design Distict. I love its longtime architect Peter Marino’s work inspired by the brand’s iconic, black and white packaging. The location carries ready to wear, eyewear, jewelry, shoes and yes, those coveted quilted handbags.

Posh Pajamas

Campo Collection’s chic pajamas for women, men and children are made locally and sustainably with natural fibers and dyes. Its Brazilian founder, a former stylist for Armani and Marc Jacobs, moved here from New York. She also offers robes, dresses and intimates.

 

Ballet Tickets

Everyone knows and loves Miami City Ballet’s annual performances of “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker,” but really wow them with seats to the North American premiere of Russian choreographer Alexei Ratmansky’s new version of “Swan Lake” in February. This is making big waves in the ballet world, and it’s quite a coup for our hometown company.

Uncommon Candles

Since Loewe creative director Jonathan Anderson is all about celebrating craft, it’s no wonder his candle line features uncommon scents. Loewe’s Miami boutique, which recently unveiled its new art installation, a large-scale mural by Sol LeWitt, carries the full range of fragrances more akin to kitchen gardens and yards. Some are oregano, juniper berry, coriander, black licorice, tomato, ivy and honeysuckle. Each vegetable wax candle comes in a glazed terracotta holder whose color matches the scent.

Gifts for Guys

Crémieux, the luxury menswear label from St. Tropez, opened a Bal Harbour store just in time for finding the perfect gift for your guy. I love its cashmere sweaters in Miami colors like rose pink and azure blue.

Beautiful pastries, panettone, cookies and chocolates

Who wouldn’t want to bite into a baked good that’s as pretty as delectable? Some of my favorite sources for edible works of art are Sant Ambroeus, which ships its signature panettone and holiday tins of Italian cookies; and Bachour, whose social media star pastries are available at its several bakeries around town. Another great idea is caftan queen Marie France Van Damme’s bean-to-bar collaboration with Hong Kong’s Conspiracy Chocolate. Flavors are inspired by her boutiques’ exotic locales like Dubai, Morocco, Singapore and Miami (smoked pineapple!).

Museum & Botanical Garden Memberships  

Give them an experience that lasts all year long while supporting local institutions at the same time. Think about what they love and where they live when choosing a membership to places like PAMM, the Bass, ICA Miami, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, Frost Science Museum, Fairchild Garden, Miami Beach Botanical Garden and more.

Jeans for Teens and Twentysomethings

Re/Done, the Malibu-born women’s and men’s brand for reconstructed Levi’s denim and other reimagined vintage apparel and accessories by heritage brands that’s all the rage with celebs from Cindy Crawford to the Hadids, opened a Miami boutique. Gen Z and Millennials love its sustainable mission and retro styles and fits from the 70s, 80s and 90s.

Jewelry with Purpose

Awe Inspired, a New York-based, feel-good jewelry collection, donates 20 to 100 percent of proceeds to partner charities like CancerCare and The Trevor Project. Its popular goddess series with signet rings and pendants is now available in solid 14K yellow and white gold. In addition to mythological and religious goddesses, pieces honor real-life goddesses throughout the ages. Choose from many including Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, Harriet Tubman, Florence Nightingale and Frida Kahlo.

Charcuterie Boards

Chaya’s Craze Boards is making a name for itself with mouthwatering, overflowing charcuterie boards. Savory and sweet options feature classic items like meat, cheese, nuts, pickles and dried fruit, as well as other less common additions like veggies, fruit, cookies and candy. They come in various sizes on handcrafted wooden charcuterie boards or in boxes.

 

Basel Bliss

By Art, Culture, Events

Miami shines for the whole world when Art Basel comes to town.

One of the most fantastic things about living in South Florida is our annual Miami art week. What began with Art Basel Miami Beach in 2002 has grown with additional fairs and exciting exhibits and events. I look forward to it every year and am so happy that we’re returning to in-person events. Besides walking the fairs and finding new artworks, I also appreciate meeting people from around the world and learning from them. I plan to soak up the inspiration all around me.


Of course, everything centers on the main fair at the Miami Beach Convention Center. If you haven’t been to the venue recently, it’s been completely renovated for a vastly improved experience. Definitely start here during Art Basel’s invitation-only preview days and vernissage from November 30-December 1. (It opens to the public December 2-4.) Galleries is its main sector, among many, but I’m also interested to see what Museo Tamayo director and Art Basel guest curator Magalí Arriola has in store for the Meridians sector that focuses on large-scale installations. She’s getting a lot of buzz.


There are too many satellite fairs to mention all of them, but don’t miss these two if you’re staying on the beach. Located in Pride Park across from Art Basel, Design Miami introduced an app to locate booths and other news more easily. Untitled returns to its oceanside tent with guest curators who bring a different perspective like Natasha Becker, curator of African Art at San Francisco’s de Young Museum, and Peruvian writer and TEOR/éTica’s former codirector Miguel A. López. To hear more from these fresh voices, they’re featured in the fair’s new IGTV video series #UntitledUnplugged.


Untitled represents the art world’s shift to promote diversity such as artists of color. David Castillo Gallery in the Miami Design District exhibits news works by Pepe Mar, a Mexican artist who’s known for incorporating designer clothing by Versace and D&G into multimedia collages and assemblage boxes. (I also suggest visiting “Tesoro,” the group show that he guest curated for FIU’s Frost Art Museum.) Jeffrey Deitch gallery pops up with an expanded version of its hit show “Shattered Glass” that focuses on works by artists of color and premiered in Los Angeles earlier this year. To explore Latin American art, visit the Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation (CIFO) and the Pinta fair, which relocates to Midtown Miami for its 15th edition with VIP previews November 30-December 1, followed by public viewing through December 5. Divided into four sections, this year’s Pinta emphasizes solo projects including a photographic installation by Colombian artist Ruby Rumié.


The rise of NFTs is another major theme for Miami art week. Art Basel fair presents “Human + Machine: NFTs and the Ever-Evolving World of Art,” an interactive experience for viewers with leading artists in the movement. The series takes place December 2-4. The week is filled with tons of collection launches and book signings, too. Louis Vuitton premieres its latest Objets Nomades at its women’s boutique in the Miami Design District on December 1. Patricia Urquiola and Humberto Campana are among the series’ collaborators who will speak. Daniel Arsham, an artist who got his start in Miami before going on to collaborate with Dior to Tiffany & Co., signs his new “Sketchbook” at the Miami Beach Edition on December 1.
With all this running around, it’s important to recharge. Swiss beauty brand sets up its La Prairie Beach Club on December 2 for relaxing treatments and a collaboration with new media artist, choreographer and dancer Wen-Chi Su. Other great wellness retreats are Faena Hotel’s Tierra Santa Healing House and Gee Beauty for the most heavenly facials. For healthy bites, Malibu’s favorite juice bar Sunlife Organics opened a Miami Beach branch near Lincoln Road.

Forty & Fabulous

By Art, Culture, Events, Music

Congratulations to Miami’s very special YoungArts on its big birthday!

YoungArts, one of the world’s biggest champions of the next generations of artists, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the Miami-based organization, it was founded by Lin and Ted Arison to foster U.S. artists aged 15-18 in various disciplines including classical music, jazz, voice, dance, theater, visual arts and film. Each year, hundreds of winners across the nation receive financial awards and a week in Miami to study and mingle with star experts, many of whom are YoungArts alumni themselves. Just to give you an idea of the talent, Viola Davis, Andrew Rannells and Tarell Alvin McCraney have participated in this program, first as teens, and then as instructors. YoungArts also has enough cachet to get famous non-alums like Mikhail Baryshnikov, Debbie Allen and Wynton Marsalis to share their insight and experiences with the kids in master classes. The nurturing doesn’t end there. Winners are eligible for nomination as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, among many professional networking and career development opportunities and services.

The Arisons passed the baton to their granddaughter, Sarah Arison, Arison Arts Foundation’s board chair who has put her own spin on things. A major rebranding initiative shortened the original name simply to YoungArts and revamped the website and overall look, while recent hires and promotions bring vital new energy to Sarah and executive director Jewel Malone’s vision for the next chapter.

© 2018 Jason Koerner Photography

Many people are already familiar with the annual National YoungArts Week in January, when teens and teachers arrive for workshops and performances that culminate in the YoungArts Backyard Ball at its Miami campus (housed in iconic, historic buildings formerly owned by Bacardi). The 2022 week is slated for January 9-15, but they’re skipping the traditional gala in lieu of a special, earlier celebration in honor of the 40th season. Co-chairs Sarah and her husband, Thomas Wilhelm, are hosting the “40 Years for Artists” birthday bash with cocktails, a seated dinner under the stars and a performance by Queen Esther [and her orchestra], the night’s master of ceremonies who won the YoungArts Theater award in 1983. ONE Sotheby’s International Realty is a proud sponsor of this milestone event on November 20.

More festivities follow with the opening of “The Choreographers’ Scores: 2020” in December. The exhibition features works on paper by U.S.-based choreographers, including Camille A. Brown, who were commissioned to imagine a score as a love letter to the future of dance. The Lapis Press printed editions of their scores handmade in quarantine during the pandemic’s shutdown. You can be among the first to see these rare works at the YoungArts Art Basel Miami Beach VIP breakfast and curator tour on December 1.

I’d also like to recommend attending Nu Deco Ensemble’s performance at the Arsht Center on December 10. YoungArts partnered with the local modern orchestra for this concert featuring original compositions by 2007 YoungArts Classical Music award winner Chris Rogerson.

Looking ahead, the YoungArts New York Gala returns on April 11, 2022. Its inaugural event in 2016 commemorated the 35th anniversary. Here’s to many more great years ahead!

Falling for Art in NY

By Art, Culture, Events

A look at the city’s art-filled season, which starts this week with tony fairs.

The Armory Show kicks off New York’s splendid art season. The premier fair has lots to talk about this year, beginning with new dates—September 10-12, with a private preview for VIPs on September 9—and a new venue—the Javits Convention Center, which recently underwent a $1.5 billion expansion, enabling modern and contemporary works to be displayed cohesively. There are new sections and programs, too, including Solo, which focuses on single-artist presentations from the 20th or 21st century, and Armory Off-Site, a large-scale, interactive series of public artworks exhibited at multiple sites around town. Among the latter are Swedish artist Katja Larsson’s new sculptures (titled Empire and Materially Superior) that will be on view at Hudson River Park through December 3; and American artist Josh Callaghan’s installation (titled Social Blocks) in the Flatiron Plaza through November 1. Keep in mind that some of the nearly 200 participating international galleries are only exhibiting virtually due to covid. Others will be showing in person and virtually. Armory Live, a two-day art conversations series, will also take place in person and virtually.

There are several concurrent satellite art fairs. The Future Fair will make its physical debut at the Starrett-Lehigh Building in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. (The first in-person edition was scheduled for last year but pivoted to a digital-only format.) The concept encourages diversity and transparency, as well as supports artists and galleries through year-round storytelling and authentic engagement with art audiences. Half of its participating galleries are women-owned, while a quarter are owned by people of color. Its dedication to inclusiveness marks a big step for the art fair scene.

Storytelling is also at the heart of Independent New York, a fair designed around the artist experience through inspirational settings and an intimate, rare mix of established, emerging and outsider galleries. Forty have signed on for its 11th edition from September 9-12, at the beautiful Battery Maritime Building (home of Cipriani South Street) with three halls overlooking the water and a spacious outdoor terrace for an exclusive café and restaurant serviced by Cipriani. Independent is also introducing an Online Viewing Room option from September 9-September 26. Beyond booths, the inaugural digital platform features exclusive editorial content like artist takeovers, podcasts and videos.

There are too many great exhibits to mention all of them, but one of immense scope should definitely be on your list. The Whitney in New York and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are collaborating on a monumental, unprecedented retrospective of Jasper Johns, who’s still working at 91 years old. The complementary exhibitions, which are concurrently on view from September 29, 2021 to February 13, 2022, required two institutions to cover his prolific, seven-decade career. Nearly 500 paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints range from his iconic flags to recent works to selections from his personal collection that are being shown to the public for the first time. A double-entendre, its title “Jasper Johns: Mind/Mirror” references his longtime study of mirroring and doubles, as well as how the two self-contained shows mirror one another.