Though this weekend may look quite different in Miami this year, lacking exclusive Art Basel parties and buzzing crowds gathering to experience the latest cultural events, there is one thing for certain: art is not canceled in Miami. Yes, the iconic annual Art Basel Miami has been canceled this year, but the city of Miami has quickly pivoted to still—safely—celebrate Art Week and its unique artists. Most parties have been replaced with intimate, by appointment only gatherings, and crowded galleries have been reimagined into long-stay pop-ups both indoors and outdoors.
According to Lauren Gnazzo, founder of Gnazzo Group and Art Week veteran, “Normally, Art Basel and Art Week would be all about the art, cultural experiences, crowds and certainly parties; however, in light of recent events, we clearly have had to adapt our approach to programming in order to make way for a more socially distanced and safe Art Week. This included allowing for extended days of pop-up exhibitions and shows, to control crowds and accommodate guests, implementing heightened safety protocols, incorporating more outdoor venues where people could still enjoy art in a more socially distanced manner. Additionally, everyone has seen a rise in virtual offerings and programming overall this year, whether it be talks or shows.”
Perhaps the silver lining to Art Week this year is that rather than a brief weekend of bold artwork and parties, these exhibitions are now getting the chance to remain in Miami longer throughout the next several weeks. “Although this year has thrown us some curveballs,” states Gnazzo, “I feel that all the artists, creatives, show producers were able to join efforts to ensure a safe yet equally inspiring Art Week. As we continue to navigate through these unprecedented times, I strongly believe that events are about embracing change and being flexible to continue providing the community with rich cultural experiences that play such an integral role in Miami's overall identity."
Click through to discover the latest happenings at Art Week this year that are keeping the art spirits alive in Miami.
[Photo by Luis Gomez courtesy Miami Design District]