Aaron Levi Garvey is a Jewish-American curator and historian who currently serves as the Director of the Art Museum of West Virginia University. He has also worked as chief curator of the Andy Warhol Museum and the founding chief curator of The Hudson Eye. As a curator, Garvey platforms both emerging and established artists and consistently champions those who are marginalized. To celebrate Miami Art Week and Art Basel, Whitewall asked Garvey where he goes to see art and what Miami’s best-kept secret is.
WHITEWALL: What’s your favorite spot to find inspiration in Miami?
AARON LEVI GARVEY: I love two things—riding really fast across the MacArthur Causeway with all the windows down (when there is no traffic) and the super-early beach sunrises.
WW: What’s the best off-the-beaten-path place to see art?
ALG: Two places, Primary in Little River and KDR305 in Little Havana—two of my all-time favorite spots run by some of my most favorite people.
“Primary in Little River and KDR305 in Little Havana are two of my all-time favorite spots run by some of my most favorite people.”
Aaron Levi Garvey
WW: What’s Miami’s best-kept secret?
ALG: Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop. My art fair fuel order is the pan con bistec especial—a daily special steak sandwich with tomatoes, grilled onions, potato sticks, and cheese, with a side order of sweet plantains. My dessert go-to is colada and with a guava and cheese empanada.
“My art fair fuel order is the pan con bistec especial.”
Aaron Levi Garvey
Miami Insider Aaron Levi Garvey’s List of Favorites:
1. Primary
Courtesy of Primary.
Primary is a context and research-driven curatorial collective with a focus on public arts. Located in Little River, Miami, their private residence explores modern ideas on the subject of live/work, connecting new voices in contemporary art with growing audiences and collections. – Primary
2. KDR305
Courtesy of KDR305.
Founded by Katia David Rosenthal, KDR305 opened its doors in 2021. Katia represents over a decade of experience in curatorial practice and advising. The gallery is committed to exhibiting emerging and recognized artists from Miami’s backyard and abroad. – KDR305
3. Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop
Courtesy of Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop.
Enriqueta’s is an enduring breakfast and lunch spot turning out Cuban fare from a simple eatery and a take-out window. – Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop
