While the first week of December is definitely an exhilarating time to be in Miami, keeping track of the many fairs, exhibitions, cocktails, panels, and parties on the Miami Art Week calendar can feel a bit like an extreme sport. There’s only so much you can do in seven days—but who better than a group of art-world insiders to guide you through it all?
Below, an eclectic bunch—including artists, collectors, curators, gallerists, advisors, and institutional founders—gives us their insights into must-see shows, favorite eateries, essential soirees, and other unmissable to-dos for out-of-towners… plus a few thoughts on how to unwind in the midst of all the Basel madness.
Anastasia Samoylova, Miami-based artist and photographer
What are your must-see museum/gallery shows?
I’m looking forward to the large exhibition of the legendary American photographer Helen Levitt at the Margulies Collection, curated by Jeanie Ambrosio and Katherine Hinds. The show includes the Subway portrait series for which Levitt collaborated with Walker Evans, a monumental figure in the history of photography. Another must-see is “Sociograms,” a poignant show by Cuban artists Hamlet Lavastida and Juan Miguel Pozos reflecting on the tools of propaganda and cultural artifacts, presented at Dot Fiftyone Gallery. Also, this year’s Art Week holds a special significance for me, as it marks my inaugural exhibition at Art Basel Miami Beach, courtesy of Wentrup Gallery, Berlin. I’m excited to invite you to the main fair and look forward to the conversations there.
Where do you like to grab lunch/coffee between shows?
My longtime favorite for coffee meetings has been Rosetta Bakery, which has three locations in Miami Beach. To escape the crowds and try something hyperlocal, I recommend heading to North Beach for the best empanadas in town at the family-owned Karnitas 71.