If I were an art critic, I’d give it a ravishing review.
Art Basel is hosted in a convention hall with over 4,000 artists, including paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, film, video, and digital art. Their are unique pieces by young artists to museum-caliber masterpieces. You can walk through the exhibits with champagne and experience the true spirit of art. Some of it political, funny, unique and art that only the true aficionado or the artist would understand the meaning behind. The people watching was truly magnificent from the collectors trying to scoop up their next piece to the wild outfits throughout the crowd.
In addition to the exhibits, they free public art live performances that were one of a kind. Abraham Cruzvillegas’ “Autorreconstrucción: To insist, to Insist, to Insist. ” has in the middle a hanging piece with scrap materials that remind the artist of improvised dwellings in Mexico City’s poor neighborhoods. There are three dancers attached by a strap to the three different pieces and two violinists playing music throughout. I will be honest the performance was very intense and I did get a bit of anxiety watching.
Banksy Exhibit
Despite the use of the artist’s name in its title, “The Art of Banksy” is displaying the enigmatic artist’s work without his consent. It is definitely controversial as people other than the artist are making money off of his work. You learn about his work, his stunts and about him as a person. We spent about an hour listening to the audio guide and marveling in The Flower Thrower, Girl With Balloon, and many other pieces. I felt conflicted about it but I really did enjoy the experience and learning about such a unique person. I would recommend visiting if it comes to your city.
In addition to the actual exhibits there are Art Basel pop-ups and events throughout the city at pretty much every restaurant, hotel and warehouse. Do your research and plan out your weekend.
I highly recommend this experience to all whether you love art, unique experiences or enjoy music and live performances as the city ignites over this weekend.
Free to Wander 