Weekly Gems Guide: Miami Art Week 2017 Events

Have no clue what to do during Art Basel? Interested in art but don't know where to start? Check out my day-by-day comprehensive Gem guide for the best openings and parties of the week!

**This weekly guide features—Gems for Gems—people who love to expose themselves to new experiences.

Whether you're a first-timer to Art Basel, an art connoisseur or a budget conscious party-goer, there is plenty to experience! Discover everything you need to know about Miami Art Week 2017, from the must-see museum shows to best events (including access to some exclusive events).

Hope you enjoy! If you love what I've provided please show your support, comment and share with your friends!

P.S. The recommended Gems are starred


Tuesday, December 5th, 2017

CASA TROPISOUL
Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 11:00 a.m. –  1:00 p.m.
Casa TropiSoul is a Miami oasis for creative entrepreneurs celebrating culture, education + community and the lovechild of DISfunkshion Magazine + Prism Creative Group at Ace Props Miami. Learn more here.

***COYO TACO PRESENTS: 2ND ANNUAL RUM & BASS #ARTBASEL BLOCK PARTY
Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 7:00 p.m. –  2:00 a.m.
Coyo Taco presents their 2nd Annual Rum & Bass Art Basel Block Party!
Come & party pre-Basel and the many special guests dipping in. Learn more here. 

HAITIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM ART WEEK MIAMI  
Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 6:30 p.m. –  9:30 p.m.
The Haitian Heritage Museum Exhibition Series, opens up cross border dialogues through vibrant artistic expressions from the Diaspora. Featured works frame the conversation on the role that Black Contemporary Artists play in propelling culture that shapes our communities and impacts society. Learn more here.

RED BULL SOUND SELECTS
Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 10:00 p.m. – until
Come out to Red Bull Sound Selects – A monthly showcase curated by local tastemakers and featuring the best in emerging music… This Miami Art Week Red Bull Sound Select Miami features performances by A.CHAL,Twelve’Len and Nick León. Learn more here.


Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

***RISE BY WE MIAMI  
Wednesday, December 6- December 8, 2017, 10:00 a.m. –  4:00 p.m.
Rise By We and Miami’s top studios bring you a Social Fitness and Wellness experience that combine rejuvenation with exhilaration. Whether you’re looking for a morning sweat session, a mindful moment in the shade, a healthy bite from Jugo Fresh or mini mani by Vanity Projects, your mind, body and spirit will thank you. Learn more here.

 FAKE FUFILLMENT CENTER  
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
NY-based artist Shawn Kolodny debuts his site specific installation "Fake Fulfillment Center" on Wednesday, December 6 through Sunday, December 10. Visitors to this "dark twist of a playground" will enter the work through a "pharmacy," don a lab coat and proceed through several multi-sensory rooms. Only 20 people at a time will be admitted from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Learn more here.

OM THIS WAY
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
In celebration of Art Basel Miami, Equinox is offering a Hip Hop Yoga class at Mana Wynwood to benefit The Felix Organization and The Irie Foundation, enriching the lives of children in need. Following the event is a performance by Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and Donald Webber Jr. of Broadway’s Hamilton. Top fundraisers will receive a limited-edition yoga mat exclusively designed by the legendary Bushwick Collective. Learn more here.

***NOW OR NEVERLAND: ODE TO HIP HOP
Wednesday, December 6 - 10, 2017, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Now or Neverland: Ode to Hip Hop showcases 15 visual artist at the Now or Neverland: Ode to Hip Hop at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, transforming theater lobby & 2nd Floor MUCE lounge into a visual honoring of Hip Hop; the global influence of the last two generations. Art goers can also enjoy an offering local art house films presented by South Florida Webfest. Learn more here.

SOUL BASEL
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Join Soul Basel Miami as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater! Rickey Smiley, the weekend emcee, will help you party for an unforgettable Funk, Art & Soul 4-day celebration. Ticket includes entry into Black Archives Honors Award event with the S0S Band performing live in concert plus entry into the opening of the Funky Turns 40 exhibit, complimentary valet, open bar with pass hors d'oeuvres, eating stations, cigar lounge, and much, much. Learn more here.

ART BEAT MIAMI PREVIEW PARTY  
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Little Haiti Optimist Foundation and Northeast Second Avenue Partnership (NE2P) invites you to participate in the 4th annual ART BEAT MIAMI at the Caribbean Marketplace at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex. The ART BEAT MIAMI Opening Reception/Preview Party celebrates a one of a kind experience of visual art, music and food inspired by the people and culture of the Caribbean. Live Performance by Mikaben & hosted by Mac D of Harmonik. Learn more here.

***ART BASEL: JAPANESE WHISKY/MUSIC/VU   
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.

Please join us Wed Dec 6 as we celebrate Art Basel with Japanese whisky, great music and a visit from Vu Hoang. Vu is a true visionary in audio and has the rare talent of combining the art of audio engineering with a great ear for music. The results are evident - he designs and builds some of the best audio systems you will ever experience. We will be unveiling some of Vu’s recent work, including massive Deja Vu Audio horn speakers and an ultra-rare Western Electric 13A Mono System. Learn more here.

***RAW POP UP   
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.

Young Artist Initiative (YAI) Presents RAW, a 3-floor immersive pop up at the Historic Post Office Building in Downtown Miami. RAW is a disruptive local presence during Art Basel empowering emerging artists during the most important week for the arts in Miami. Learn more here.

Photo by PopPhotography

***SILENT ADDY +KOLA CHAMPAGNE PRESENTS BASHMENT TV   
Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 10:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Silent Addy & Kola Champagne presents Bashment TV - Art Basel Edition. Music by: Jillionaire + Walshy Fire from Major Lazer, Ape Drums, Jubilee, Reid Waters, Eccentrix Sound and Disco Neil. Hosted by: Karizma Dancers. Learn more here.


Thursday, December 7th, 2017

RUBELL FAMILY COLLECTION OPENING RECEPTION
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Join the Rubell Family as the host an opening reception for the exhibitions ‘Still Human’ and ‘Stranger in Paradise’. ‘Still Human’ comprises twenty-nine artists working across a range of mediums addressing notions of artificial intelligence, bioethics, desire, and virtual existence. Learn more here.

THE HUNGRY BLACK MAN CULINARY WEEK
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 1:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
The Hungry Black Man Culinary Week and Conference (HBMCWC) – South Florida Edition, is a four-day event to educate, explore, and celebrate the minority food and drink entrepreneurial space through highlighting inspiring keynotes from industry leaders, engaging workshops, panel discussions, competitions, and culinary happenings. Learn more here.

***WEWORK SECURITY BUILDING: UNLOCK THE VAULT
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Come out to WeWork Security Building to celebrate their fourth Miami location, and Miami Art Week - with a night of drinks, bites and tunes from some of Miami's favorites. Come "unlock the vault" and check out their new downtown digs. Learn more here.

***NO COMMISSION X SWIZZ BEATZ
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
The Dean Collection and BACARDÍ are pleased to present No Commision Miami: A three-day exhibition curated by Grammy award winning producer Swizz Beatz. Experience the work of critically acclaimed Artists, live music performances & BACARDÍ cocktails in celebration of creative expression.  Learn more here.  

WYNWOOD NIGHTS ART BASEL EDITION
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Come out and experience the Art Basel Edition of Wynwood Nights featuring; live paintings, art expositions and live performances. Vibes curated by DJ Bre and The Whiskey Chick. Everyone free all night with an RSVP. Learn more here.

***PAMM PRESENTS
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) celebrates Miami Art Week with its signature Thursday night event. DJ Maseo of De La Soul will headline a one-night-only performance, featuring live music, libations, and more. The evening will also feature a performance by Afrobeats musician Young Paris, music by heavy band Holly Hunt, and spoken word by poet Aja Monet. Learn more here.

WAYUP X SHABAAAAA
Thursday, December 7, 2017, 10:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
WAYUP⚡STAYUP meets Shabbaaaaa from LA this Art Basel for a special bashment party collaboration. Authentic island vibes overload at 1306 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33136. Learn more here.


friday, December 8th, 2017

CREATIVE MORNINGS W/ LIA FIGUEREDO
Friday, December 8, 2017, 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Creative Mornings is back with its first Friday conversations, featuring Lia Figueredo, CMO of DEFY and Founder of Milk Media Co. She’s an incredibly talented mind in all things creative so make sure not to miss it! Learn more here.

BASEL HOUSE MURAL FESTIVAL 
Friday, December 8 - 10, 2017, 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Come out to Wynwood's first Basel House, Mural Festival! There will be 40+ mural projects by top street artists and art organizations from across the globe painting large murals across six city blocks in Miami’s Wynwood Art District. This Mural Festival will offer live painting, unique art installations, live music, late-night DJs, mural tours, workshops, food trucks and more! Learn more here.

***LET THERE BE REGGAE ART EXHIBITION  
Friday, December 8, 2017, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Island Syndicate invites you to an exclusive evening of entertainment and information during the Let There Be Reggae art exhibit at Miami Art Week. Enjoy live musical performances, meet the artists, and mingle with South Florida professionals. Musical Guests include; Freddie McGregor + Tony Matterhorn + IIconz. Learn more here.

FEMPOWER EROTISMO
Friday, December 8, 2017, 6:00 p.m. – until
This Basel (F)empower's Erotismo is a place where femmes disrupt an antiquated heteronormative patriarchal power order and claim their autonomous nature. Like erotic energy, it is a safe space that is playful, climactic, and over all: consensually powerful. Featuring art by femmes for femmes and celebrating sex positivity. Learn more here. 

YARDXBASEL
Friday, December 8, 2017, 6:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
YardXBasel is the premiere Noirbnb event, created to showcase the work of Caribbean, African, and African-American artists during Miami’s Art Basel festivities. This will be an evening to celebrate our creativity, contributions, and culture in all of it’s beauty and diversity. Get ready for great art, great food, great music, and an all-around great time. Learn More here.

FREEHAND NY BASEL TAKEOVER
Friday, December 8, 2017, 6:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Celebrate Art Basel with a sneak peek at Freehand New York! They’ll be featuring a special dinner menu from Happy Cooking‘s upcoming restaurant, Simon & The Whale at 27 Restaurant & Bar and cocktails from Broken Shaker New York. Learn more here.

***NO COMMISSION X SWIZZ BEATZ
Friday, December 8, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
The Dean Collection and BACARDÍ are pleased to present No Commision Miami: A three-day exhibition curated by Grammy award winning producer Swizz Beatz. Experience the work of critically acclaimed Artists, live music performances & BACARDÍ cocktails in celebration of creative expression.  Learn more here.  

BASEL AT THE YARD: AFROBETA & MILLIONYOUNG
Friday, December 8, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Come ready to get down with the legendary Afrobeta, take in the electro-R&B sounds of Millionyoung, and catch DJ Lolo spinning her musical knowledge on the decks. Explore the many delicious food pop-ups at The Wynwood Yard, grab a local drink at the bar, and take in what makes Miami so beautiful. Learn more here.

SHOTS FIRED ll
Friday, December 8, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Shots Fired II is a photography exhibition showcasing the unique perspective of photographers from different backgrounds & locations. Guests can meet/interact with each artist individually, purchase prints, and enjoy some drinks while the DJ's provide an upbeat soundtrack throughout the night. Learn more here.

ART BASEL: SPECIAL SCREENING ABOUT JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT
Friday, December 8, 2017, 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Come out and watch a special documentary showing a glimpse of the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat and the movements that touched and inspired the artist during his period in New York. Following the film will be a panel discussion with director Sara Driver and Film sector curator Marian Masone.
Access: Free public access (limited seating); Colony Theatre. Learn more here.

***YOU HAD TO BE THERE. PRESENTED BY ADIDAS ORIGINALS  
Friday, December 8, 2017, 11:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.
You Had To Be There is a phone-free party presented by Adidas Originals.  In order to maintain this environment, all phones will be placed in pouches upon entering the venue. The event features surprise DJ sets and free custom shirts by artist Tony Peralta. 21+ and Free with RSVP. Learn more here.


Saturday, December 9th, 2017

YOGART BASEL AT THE PAMM
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Take a Breather during Basel at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). Join in for for a unique yoga practice, inhale the beauty of the modern and contemporary museum. Class is led by Miami's own Dawn B with musical performances by Guara Vani and the Mayapuris! Learn more here.

Photo courtesy of Create & Cultivate 

***CREATE & CULTIVATE PRESENTS REAL TALK   
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Join Create & Cultivate as they host two Real talk panels in the new Aerie Store, plus a post-panel Mocktail Hour where you can mix and mingle with your fellow Create & Cultivators. The afternoon will focus on female empowerment, body positivity and wellness, with women who are breaking stereotypes and living their dreams. This event is free & open to the public, though space is limited. Learn more here.

HATCH MIAMI
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The public is invited to holiday edition of Hatch Miami, a free outdoor market committed to showcasing and supporting Miami women who are entrepreneurs, innovators, artists and performers. Learn more here.

***THE FLEA MARKET
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Everyone from South Florida has a memory from the flea market. This Art Basel you’re invited to enjoy a taste of Miami culture and experience all that a flea market has to offer. The event will be hosted by OhRawkC and feature a photo exhibit by; Photo Tea, Kovalski Jacques, Aaron Jackson and Smitty, vendors and live performances. Learn more here.

Photo by PopPhotography

***EVERYDAY PEOPLE: ART BASEL MIAMI EDITION  
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Join The KGN as they host NYC’s dopest day party collective “Everyday People”. Come out to Wynwood’s hottest spot 1800 Lucky as EP and vibe to the musical curation from special surprise guests as VICELAND documents the entire thing! Learn more here.

YOU ARE THE MASTERPIECE   
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
You are the Masterpiece is an interactive full sensory experience featuring an all-femme cast, living mural, dancers, DJ, Drinks, live art, beauty bar, giveaways & more! YOU Are the masterpiece! Learn more here.

BASEL AT THE YARD: LOCOS POR HIPPIES
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 5:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Get ready for one of the most epic musical lineups to ever grace the stage featuring tons of collabs and special moments from; Electric Kif, Yellow Shoots of NYC, Miami’s own Magic City Hippies, and Latin Reggae band, Locos Por Juana. Learn more here.

***TXTURE MAGAZINE PRESENTS…ENTWINE W/ SHANI CROWE
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Come out to an interactive gallery exhibition, showcasing the artistry of African hair braiding through imagery & live model activation displays featuring a live braid demo by Shani Crowe. Guest will enjoy gift bags by event sponsors Creme Of Nature, sip signature cocktails by Gold Bar, and enjoy give-a-ways & samples by La Pierre cosmetics and Jane Carter Men. Learn more here.

***NO COMMISSION X SWIZZ BEATZ
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 7:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
The Dean Collection and BACARDÍ are pleased to present No Commision Miami: A three-day exhibition curated by Grammy award winning producer Swizz Beatz. Experience the work of critically acclaimed Artists, live music performances & BACARDÍ cocktails in celebration of creative expression.  Learn more here.  

CARIB FREAKFEST
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
The Champagne Life Productions Presents Carib FREAKfest: Art Basel Miami Edition. End your 2017 off right around positive vibes and basking in the Caribbean ambiance. Live Streaming of the FREAKfest will be provided by Miami’s very own OhRawkC Radio Show!!! Learn more here.

lll Points presents WU-TANG CLAN
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 9:00 p.m. – until
lll Points is bringing Wu-Tang Clan to Miami on December 9th, 2017 as part of their fifth annual Art Basel Concert Series. Learn more here.

YEELEN’s BACK TO BLACK
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 10:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Yeelen Gallery’s annual Art Basel Miami event is back! Back to Black celebrates the creative influence of diversity and is designed as a beacon to light the way for future collaborations and projects amongst cultural tastemakers. Guests will enjoy music by DJ LL Cool Blaze and many more, sip signature cocktails and experience Subtext, a solo exhibition featuring the work of New York City based artist Wyatt Gallery Open Bar included with ticket purchase. Learn more here!

***SENSI MAGAZINE PRESENTS “HIGH SOCIETY-BASEL PARTY FOR THE CANNASOCIALITE”
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 10:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
High Society is an upscale Basel Party for the CannaSocialite! High Society will be a highly curated entertainment experience for the novice and cannoisseur alike. This event is a part of the 3rd Annual ART420 Cannabis Inspired Art Show! *Upscale dress required Learn more here.


Sunday, December 10th, 2017

***ART OF BAE GALLERY
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
You are cordially invited to Art Of Bae’s 3rd Annual Art Basel Exhibition!
Art of Bae is a gallery curated to shine light on modern & contemporary female artists from around the world. AOB features the underground & mainstream demographics for talented artists to expose their conceptual work. Join the collective for great art, music performances, photo booth fun, food and drinks! Learn more here.

THE MELTING POT ll
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Join Unfold Records, a Broward based vinyl and digital record label, for an evening of live performances by some of Florida’s best local talent. Learn more here.

***CHILLIN’ BASEL BLOCK PARTY
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The KGN has teamed up with Wright Image Events to bring you Chillin’ Basel. Come experience all the fun of Chillin’ the party while being immersed in street art in Wynwood’s historic RC Cola Plant. Learn more here.

AFROBASEL MIAMI
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Join Ankara Miami, Inc., African Elite Entertainment, & friends for an Afro-Caribbean celebration of music, fashion, & art! Featuring artists; @dopexgold & @s.o.n.a, and a mini edition of the Ankara Delights: Pop-Up Shop! Learn more here.

***OUR BASEL
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Join Smoke Signals Studio for their 2nd annual Our Basel, an event crafted by the people, for the people. This year’s line-up includes: eryn allen kane, jesse boykins III,  samora pinderhughes, tef poe, SHENZI, sekajipoforthepeople, inikio, arsimmer mccoy, james klynn, nephii love, j. howard & more! Learn more here.

MIAMI VICE EPISODE
Sunday, December 10, 2017, 9:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Come out to the Art Basel Edition of Miami Vice Episode. Featuring music by Eccentrix Sound/Reid Waters/Disco Neil, and Hosted by Silent Addy, Supa Chiney and Realist. Everyone free with an RSVP before 12AM. Learn more here.


Check out my curated list of fairs for a unique Miami Art Week experience Here.