Miami Art Week was brimming with captivating exhibitions and effervescent gatherings, attended by some of the most groundbreaking cultural leaders of our time. Here, one such visionary, the masterful artist Derek Fordjour, shares his treasured moments in The Magic City. Fordjour, whose dazzling work resides in the collections of The Studio Museum of Harlem, Guggenheim Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, SFMOMA, Brooklyn Museum, The Whitney Museum, and LACMA, imparts to Whitewall the galas, shows, and conversations that stole his heart.
Best Surprises
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Began the week at a wonderful gala for YoungArts as a guest of Sarah Arison. My seat mate was Thomas Lax from MOMA. Fun evening!
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Young Arts Gala with Clarissa Post and Andrea Crane.
Best Shows
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Attended a private tour of Jose Parlá’s solo show at PAMM.
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Loved this gigantic Hurvin Anderson work at PAMM….epic, cinematic!
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Took in Calida Rawles’s exquisite show at PAMM.
Best Vibes
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Had a fun conversation at the 12on12 Highsnobiety pop up with the legendary producer Timbaland, moderated by Essence Harden.
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Attended a talk at The Edition Hotel hosted by Work of Art Holdings presenting a new initiative bridging women’s sports and art called Art Agenda. The panel was moderated by Carrie Champion and featured artists Mickalene Thomas, Kennedy Yanko and WNBA star Napheesa Collier.
Best Moments
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Attended a VIP Brunch at Casa Tua for the Serpentine Americas Foundation. Here CEO Bettina Korek and Artistic Director Hans Ulrich Obrist make remarks.
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
A stand out public installation at NADA from an artist named Claire Torina represented by Sheet Cake Gallery, a first time exhibitor at the fair.
Best Discoveries
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Artist Yashua Klos exhibited a stunning work at Sikkema Jenkins booth at Art Basel Miami.
Courtesy of Derek Fordjour.
Galleries Nicola Vassell showcased a handsome Alteronce Gumby at the ABMB fair.
