One of the most fun and fascinating aspects of an art fair is the festive, diverse and multiple atmosphere in terms of socio-cultural interaction.
Even more so if we talk about an international event like Art Basel in Miami which, for its 2022 edition to be held the next three days of December, emphasizes its thematic discourse on Latin American art in the world.
This, in addition to being a sign of Hispanic pride and celebration, taking into account the importance for the community in a city like Miami, will also tell us about a much warmer, louder, more colorful and smiling edition.
The fair is, as its name indicates, the field of play and possibilities, of dynamics and festivals in a field that just two decades ago did not allow for the flexibilities of social interaction that we can see today.
However, as it is also a playing field, the art fair attends to the commercial and appreciative aspect of the pieces, bringing together an endless number of areas, scenes and circles with different personalities and objectives.
This is eventually reflected in the type of experience or journey that is made through the spaces, stands, activities and works, but also in the interaction with them, forms and times inside and outside the activities of the program, and even in the way to dress and interact.
Art is the world of the game, but each game has its dynamics.
The one at Art Basel is quite broad and enriching.
ILLYSCHKA (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Especially if you are one of the people who does not know what to wear to the fair or the opening, whether or not to take a selfie next to an installation, or if laughing loudly at something that we "did not understand" or is too bland will be taken badly, this guide is for you.
The expert voices of fashion share with us that, being a far-reaching event, activities and things to see, the clothing imprint must blend comfort with something extravagant, funk, chic and unique.
Forget classic elegance and power cocktail dress.
Fashion trend-focused blog Travel Love Fashion tells us that “there are no rules on what to wear to art fairs, but think New York edgy meets Miami colorful.
With hundreds of galleries exhibiting at Art Basel Miami Beach and satellite fairs, there's a lot of ground to cover.
Art fair looks are where the combination of style and function is most needed.
You want to make sure your outfit and shoes are comfortable so you can go out at night after a full day looking at art, but comfort doesn't have to sacrifice style.
“Bold dresses paired with sneakers or ankle boots are always a hit at art fairs.
Cool fabrics and fun, slouchy fits are great for Miami's humid weather.
Don't forget, though, that fair temperatures stay cool for art, so a light blazer or fun kimono is a must.
Statement jewelry is a great addition to any Art Basel look and can help elevate your outfit if color isn't your thing and you insist on wearing black.
The bag of choice for art fairs is a small to medium size bag, so it can easily fit a bottle of water, art fair program and supplies, and an umbrella for those infamous South Beach downpours." share specialized site.
It is common to confuse design with art and real estate with pieces of art.
It happens to all of us.
Craig Barritt (Getty Images for Qatar Creates)
For its part, the Art Work Archive site reminds us that, although it is very likely that there will be many snacks and good food, it is best not to eat them near the pieces or where there is a constant flow of people.
“People may feel like they are interrupting or not involved in the fair if they are eating.
Even people like Aletta de Wal from Artist Career Training have come up with a whole explanation of how this could affect a sale.
We are not suggesting fasting, just going outside or back for a quick snack during sho."
Under the old adage of “a good impression is never forgotten”, the artist and specialized writer Lori McNee invites us to appear friendly and welcoming to invite exchange, family atmosphere and friendly dynamics.
She “Tries to look friendly and attentive by smiling, arms at your sides, ready to say hello.
Otherwise, they may not feel comfortable in the space”, explains the author.
In addition, and regardless of the fact that for some the selfie with the work is in bad taste or a synonym of anxiety (“not too close, avoid a disaster please”), there is no law that prohibits taking an innocuous and playful photo with or to what caught your attention.
It's valid and you shouldn't feel sorry for it, experts say.
However, as it is an event with pieces that are being valued at a considerable amount of money, and taking into account that this year Art Basel brings together a historic number of 283 galleries from 39 countries, the most prudent thing to do is to take into account and comply with the rules of the event, which among other things highlights:
- Take into account that there is a security inspection.
As a visitor you must comply with the requests and instructions of the on-site security personnel, otherwise they may deny admission or even remove someone from the fair.
- You can only take a small bag with you.
Backpacks, suitcases and strollers of any size are not allowed.
Bags, briefcases and similar items measuring more than 40 x 20 x 40 cm must be registered in the cloakroom.
- Prohibited items.
True, at the fair you will find strange items but that is not why we are allowed to carry something dangerous.
Avoid trouble and check the list of prohibited things: skates, bicycles, scooters, drones, firearms, self defense and/or any sharp items, destructive devices, explosives, aerosols or any other item.
- Photography.
Yes, taking photos is allowed but it also has certain restrictions in Art Basel, since only cameras that do not exceed 16 cm x 12 cm x 8 cm are allowed, an objective (or lens) no more than 80 mm away focal.
Large or medium format cameras and lenses, super-zoom or telephoto lenses, flashes, extendable camera devices such as monopods, tripods, selfie sticks, etc., as well as drones and video recording.
In addition, you can make use of the images in a personal but not professional or commercial way, without disturbing galleries or visitors and taking into account the security of the works.