Celebrating its 20th anniversary in Miami Beach, the largest ever edition of Art Basel closed this weekend after a major turnout of VIPs, collectors and institutions saw the overall attendance run to more than 75,000 visitors.
“Our 20th edition was not only the largest ever, but also the strongest in terms of the absolute quality of work,” said Marc Spiegler, the outgoing Global Director of Art Basel. “And it had the most diverse range of galleries and artistic voices ever present, making this show remarkably rich in discoveries. We are immensely proud of what has been achieved together with our galleries, partners, and the city's cultural community.”
After two decades of growth, the 2022 edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach featured 282 galleries from 38 countries, including 25 galleries who participated for the first time. Two-thirds of the show were dedicated to regional art, with participating galleries mainly from North and South America including from Canada, Cuba, Peru, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay.
"This year’s fair was particularly exceptional. The quality and ambition of work in the halls has arguably never been higher, sales have been reported across all sectors, and the city has been electric,” said Noah Horowitz, CEO, Art Basel. “Over the last 20 years Greater Miami has firmly become a cultural destination of the highest order, with this week cementing itself as the apex moment in the American cultural calendar. We couldn't be more excited about what the future has in store for us here.”
Highlights of the 20th anniversary edition included the Meridians sector featuring 20 large-scale art projects by renowned and emerging artists, as well as the Kabinett sector which presented specially curated installations from 29 galleries. In addition, French luxury Maison Louis Vuitton also took the opportunity at Art Basel in Miami Beach to showcase original artworks and a curated selection of collaborations including the 10th anniversary of Louis Vuitton’s first colab with artist Yayoi Kusama. Exclusive new Louis Vuitton pieces by Kusama were introduced at the fair, along with past creations such as artworks by Takashi Murakami, Alex Katz, and Richard Prince.
“It is truly exciting to celebrate our 20-year presence in Miami Beach,” said Spiegler. “Over the last two decades our show has not only reinforced its pivotal position in the region – uniquely bridging the art scenes of North and South Americas, Europe, and beyond – but also played a galvanising role in the city’s profound cultural transformation.”
