The W South Beach Kick-Off Dinner with Art Basel at The Grove. Photograph by Shane Drummond for BFA, edited by Nicholas Hunt for BFA. ©️ BFA.
Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 began with a bang at an exclusive kickoff party sponsored by HexClad and held at the W South Beach hotel, where artists, collectors, and gallerists gathered to celebrate the inaugural edition under the direction of Bridget Finn. The chic ground floor terrace, outfitted by Moooi, set the stage for an evening of culture and camaraderie ahead of the grand fair’s opening.
Hosted by Finn and Irene Kim, global head of VIP relations for Art Basel, the event attracted a star-studded crowd. Artists such as Tschabalala Self, Margaux Ogden, and Miles Greenberg mingled with prominent gallerists including Leopol Jose Maria Mones Cazon from Buenos Aires’ Isla Flotante and Thiago Gomide of São Paulo’s Gomide&Co, who prepared to showcase their work at the Miami Beach Convention Center the next day.
Miles Greenberg, Stefanie Hessler, Tschabalala Self, Kami Gahiga, and Dunja Gottweis. Photograph by Shane Drummond for BFA, edited by Nicholas Hunt for BFA. ©️ BFA.
Guests enjoyed a culinary feast crafted by Los Angeles-based dining concept Shoku, featuring wagyu Philly cheesesteaks and chalupa shells filled with prawns. The evening’s drinks included AIX rosé from Provence and Silver Oak cabernet sauvignon from Sonoma County, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Among the veteran attendees was Adam Abdalla of Cultural Counsel, who remarked on the event’s evolution since his first visit in 2007. “We all came up through the trenches together and now they are shaping the cultural dialogue,” he noted, reflecting on the connections forged over the years.
John Mathews, head of UBS Private Wealth Management, shared his insights on Art Basel’s growth since its inception in 2002. “It’s transformed into what I think is the art world’s most dynamic and fun – and I stress fun – annual event,” he said to a small group of journalists.
The night buzzed with excitement, highlighted by Evian’s limited-edition bottles designed by Pharrell Williams and unique cocktails served throughout the venue. Noreen Ahmad from ALMA Communications reminisced about past fairs while sipping a Casa Dragones Mexpresso Martini, recalling the days before ride-sharing apps changed the landscape of Art Basel nightlife.
As the celebratory mood took hold, guests marked the beginning of a new chapter in Miami’s vibrant art scene, eager for what the week would bring.