Arts & Culture
Art Basel Miami Beach 2012
A diary of the grit and ritz of Miami's annual all-you-can-eat brain food buffet
Published: December 12, 2012
SUNDAY
1 p.m. – closing:
Having survived last night, we arrive at the convention center for ABMB proper. As expected, there's as much plastic walking the floor as there is on display (and in wallets). The convention center is its own beast, an indoor mini-city with more than 250 galleries from around the world showing work that ranges from the of-the-moment contemporary to as far back as the modern period of the early 20th century. Compared to scruffy Wynwood and emerging satellite fairs like Scope, the Basel convention floor is the top of the food chain, where the Justin Biebers of the art world come to sell their work. This is art that has mass appeal and financial value. Cheap here is 30 grand, but if you like that Basquiat on the wall, it can be yours.
In the end, we decided we preferred Wynwood. It's a good representation of where art is headed and gave us a glimpse of good, hungry talent. Plus, the beer was righteous. In all, Art Basel Miami Beach is something every human, at least those who consider themselves cultured, should attend at least once in his or her life.
Benjamin Collins and Gilbert Gomez are directors of ad agency Laughing Samurai and Twelve21 Gallery, a showcase and online storefront for new contemporary art. They also design this awesome publication you're holding.
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