Sarah Arison Guest Edits Whitewaller Miami 2019

Always at the top of my list are the exhibitions and talks at National YoungArts Foundation. The YoungArts Gallery (2100 Biscayne Boulevard) will be my first stop to see “Within Interdependence,” an exhibition featuring works by 20 artists (all past YoungArts award winners) curated by Deana Haggag of United States Artists. The show uncovers a trend seen in work from artists from across the country grappling with how they connect to the current, rapidly changing ecological, metaphysical, and social world. It features installations, paintings, photography, sculptures, and mixed-media works, and offers an incisive investigation into notions of identity, selfhood, and spatial relationships.

On December 3, I hope you will join me for the inaugural event at the Arts Funders Forum, this year held at New World Center. I’m excited to be included as a speaker on visionary leadership in the world of cultural philanthropy, along with Bridgitt Evans, Deana Haggag, Alberto Ibargüen, Hank Willis Thomas, and Edwin Torres.

It’s always a thrill to see the strong programming presented by Miami arts institutions, and this year is no exception. My must-see list includes Yayoi Kusama’s “All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins” at ICA Miami, Mickalene Thomas’s “Better Nights” at The Bass Museum of Art, and Teresita Fernández’s solo show “Elemental” at Pérez Art Museum Miami. I’m proud to say that Mickalene and Teresita are also YoungArts master teachers, inspiring the next generation of artists.

During the week, I will most certainly head to some of my favorite Miami galleries, including Nina Johnson and Primary Projects. David Castillo will show new works by yet another inspiring artist and YoungArts master teacher: Sanford Biggers.

Art Basel in Miami Beach is at the center of it all, and I am especially looking forward to the booths presented by David Zwirner and Hauser & Wirth. If I manage to fit in some time to enjoy the Miami “winter,” I will explore the Miami Design District, where one can always discover new shops, restaurants, pop-up exhibitions, public art installations, and more. Stop by Vanity Projects to match your manicure to your art.

For relaxation, make time for the beach and have a quiet lunch at Le Sirenuse at the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club.

My last piece of advice for fairgoers never changes: Stay hydrated and rested, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your portable phone charger. Most important, see great art, support artists by buying their work, make new friends along the way, and be sure to say hello if our paths cross during this whirlwind of a week!

—Sarah Arison
President, Arison Arts Foundation
@saraharison