Art Basel Miami Beach, the sister art show to Switzerland's Art Basel, is considered by many in the arts community to be "the most important art show in the United States," according to the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Featuring the works of more than 2,000 artists and showcasing more than 250 art galleries from around the world, Art Basel is held annually on the first weekend of December. Art exhibits fill the Miami Beach Convention Center, shipping containers on South Beach and galleries throughout the greater Miami area. The spectacular parties that accompany the show often rival the art.
Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-673-7311
www.artbaselmiamibeach.com
Also held during the first week in December, Art Miami has featured contemporary and modern art from galleries and institutions all over the world for more than 20 years. Past exhibitors include Alexander & Engel Gallery from Paris, Kreisler Galeria de Arte of Madrid and New York's Eli Klein Fine Art.
The Art Miami Pavilion
The Miami Midtown Arts District
Northeast First Avenue between Northeast 32nd and Northeast 31st Street
Miami, FL 33137
520-529-1108
www.art-miami.com
The Miami International Art Fair had its debut in 2010, featuring contemporary art of all media, including installations, video and photography. Although it is the new show on the block, the fair garners attention since it is organized by the founders of the long-running Art Miami and is held in mid-January during Miami's high season.
Miami International Art Fair
Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Dr.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-673-7311
www.mia-artfair.com
Presented by the Coconut Grove Arts & Historical Association, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival is an outdoor fine arts fair held every February, featuring the works of more than 360 artists. This festival is a bit more casual than the prestigious Art Basel, but there is excellent art for sale, live music and an amazing culinary arts pavilion offering delicious local cuisine.
Coconut Grove Arts Festival
3390 Mary Street Suite 128
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
305-447-0401
www.coconutgroveartsfest.com