Thomas Zipp on Paper – Via Hikari

Weather was clear and sunny the day the fair opened, many escaping the heat into the hordes of people who had purchased tickets or somehow found their way into the exclusive Vernissage, or opening of the fair. While some seem determined to close the details on any hot pieces that managed to make to the fair yet unsold (many pieces are sold to collectors before the galleries even make it to the fair) most seemed to just be milling around aimlessly. However there was a buzz in the air and excitement to see such masterpieces as Basquiats that were hidden for years in a private collection at Jan Krugier’s booth, a breathtaking 5 channel video piece by Doug Aitken at 303 Gallery’s booth and a performance utilizing a piece by Jim Shaw (performed by his assistant) complete with four armed electric guitar and burlap hooded cloak.

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Hernan Bas Painting via Hikari

A not to miss on the Miami Art Basel agenda, is the famous Rubell Family Collection. Displayed in the design district in a large, blockish, museum-esque building. While a private collection, there’s nothing private feeling about it, including the vacuous galleries, bookstore and several banners on light posts proclaiming its presence. It’s clear that the Rubell’s have contributed and shaped the contemporary art world as we know it.
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