ART BASEL MIAMI... THE SUPERBOWL OF ART FAIRS

To most, Art Basel Miami is the Super Bowl of art fairs. Since it conception in 2001, it has involved almost two dozen art fairs, exhibits all around town and events, talks and panels. Many events are free. That's the beauty of it. For those of us who love art & design, it is "the" event to attend!

Even if you are not an art lover, it is still a wonderful event to attend. It is your opportunity to see outstanding art from all over the world without leaving the mainland. This event single-handedly changed the world's view of Miami and in turn increased its revenue stream by bringing in jobs, companies, and real estate sales. It’s also the No. 1 draw for the jet setters, and most everything is for sale.

EVENTS

There are also plenty of parties to attend. Worth magazine’s Curator series, connecting high net worth individuals to luxury products and services, hosted its annual Miami event during Art Basel. Curator/ Miami is an exclusive experience that connects prestige and luxury brands with high-net- worth clients and customers. This invitation-only brand showcase features talented artists as well as luxury products and services, including private jets, luxury automobiles, fine jewels and time pieces, cult wines, premium spirits, high-end beauty products and more. This year, De'Longhi (the company I work for), was one of the brands featured at this prestigious event. 

At the event, our large lounge/bar space seemed to be a favorite. Guests enjoyed signature coffee cocktails in addition to the espressos and cappuccinos.  There was also the opportunity to learn about our higher-end machines: Elettas, Dedicas, Magnificas & Latissimas. These machines were also available for purchase. As part of our activation, we enlisted a local Miami graffiti/pop art artist to create a unique and one-of-a-kind art piece.  Guests who shared their emails were registered for the chance to win an Eletta and the artwork.  

NEW RETAIL DESIGN CONCEPTS

To coincide with Art Basel Miami 2017, Prada has opened a new store in the heart of Miami’s Design District, revealing a modern interpretation of its architectural and retail design concepts. The new location is set to push forth a new visual identity for the brand, drawing influence from classical modernism as well as Art Deco designs from South America.

Influence for the store reflects the “Tropical Deco” aesthetic of old Miami beach, using styles drawn from Prada’s collection prints. In addition to the store’s 650 sq. m build (nearly 7000 sq. ft.), furnishings inside include Brazilian Rosewood as well as pieces designed and produced by Portuguese-born interior designer, Joaquim Tenreiro.

The new store will soon be open to the public and will offer Prada’s clothing, handbags and accessories for both men and women.