Ask any resident of Miami Beach what artistic event holds the most value for them and you will receive the same response — Art Basel.  Thousands of visitors flock to the palm-lined streets and white sand beaches that comprise such neighborhoods as South Beach, Wynwood, and the Design District to take in dazzling displays of contemporary art each December at this amazing festival.  I find Art Basel to be incredibly relevant to the arts world and to what we are learning about in this course.  Most importantly, it brings contemporary art to “the people.”  By having large public exhibits in accessible venues, it inspires interest in what may otherwise be considered a lost demographic by the artists who participate.  Ultimately, the festival serves as a forum of exchange between artists, collectors/patrons, and enthusiasts.  Having observed this amazing art festival, I believe that it represents the future of artistic and cultural business.  That is, by making it so accessible and exciting, the proverbial barrier between the potential buyer and artist is eliminated.  Having fun in the process?  That’s just icing on an already delicious cake…

Check out the website for more information:  http://www.artbaselmiamibeach.com/go/id/ss/lang/eng/