Tagged: Miami Beach

The UNTITLED art fair is the new kid on the Basel block. It's the event’s first year.

The fair itself has a distinctly South Florida feel to it. The large, airy white tent has soft, filtered lighting and looks out over the ocean. Adding to the Miami vibe are the girls wandering around promoting various kinds of alcohol by handing out freebies.

Among them were the Hendricks gin girls, Jacqueline Sanabia and Kezia Linden, who, I thought, were wearing some pretty snazzy little hats.

There is a lot to do in Miami during Art Basel so you may not want another item added to your list of “must sees.” Nevertheless, consider including this fair: Aqua Art Miami at the Aqua Hotel on Collins and 15th  Street in Miami Beach. 

The fair has a laid-back vibe, lots of art and a good-sized crowd that feels happening without being claustrophobic.

Often “Art Basel” is used as shorthand for the many arts events that coincide with the Art Basel fair itself, which takes place inside the Miami Beach Convention Center. 

But throughout Miami, galleries and artists are exhibiting their work so there really is something for everyone this week.  Below is a small sampling for various persuasions. 

You hate contemporary art: Endless Renaissance at the Bass Museum.  

David's Café in Miami Beach is a popular campaign stop for politicians. Now, it's become a site for protest.

A group of former workers claims they are owed about $70,000 in unpaid wages from a satellite location that closed in July.

Carlos Perez was among the protestors outside the main restaurant on Collins Avenue in South Beach Tuesday. He claimed its owners offered to pay a fraction of his original wages.

South Florida beaches are characteristically void of big, west coast waves. Visitors and residents alike can be seen swimming in the calm water, and sipping mojitos on the shore for relaxation.

Miami-Dade prosecutors say Gus Lopez knew what others were bidding for city contracts in Miami Beach and he sold the information to help competitors submit lower and winning bids.

A former city procurement director, Lopez and business partner Pierre Landrin Jr., are accused of racketeering and unlawful compensation. Lopez' lawyer insists the charges are politically motivated.

During presidential debate nights, people in Miami may not congregate around giant screens at restaurants and bars, Super Bowl-style, as they do in Washington, D.C.

However, there are some places in Miami where you can watch the debates, whether you prefer watching the event with a group, want a steady flow of cocktails, or just wish to escape your abuelo's or your sister's running commentary at home (list of watch parties and restaurants/bars follows).