Arts

At a roundtable arts engagement at Locust Projects a few months ago, the conversation inevitably turned to Art Basel and it’s effect on Miami both as a city overall and the development of the arts scene.  The chat touched on the blossoming scene in street-art hub of Wynwood, and of how there is a tangible sense that Miami is starting to matter in the arts world.

It would have been a positive, maybe even an uplifting conversation, if it was not filled with undertones of frustration.

Overtown artists have participated in Art Basel with showings and events in the neighborhood in past years. However, this is the second year that the neighborhood participates on a grander scale.

Lots of us would rather steer clear of construction, but Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is actually embracing it. 

The new runway and terminal expansion project will not only allow for more flights, it also creates more space for art.

So, the Broward County Public Art and Design Committee is looking for an artist, or perhaps artists, in residence.

And the art is supposed to be about the airport construction project itself.

The legendary salsa label hosts a free music and art event at PAX in Little Havana during Art Basel Wednesday, Dec.5 through Saturday, Dec. 8.

You may notice a growing buzz of activity--especially in Midtown, the Design District and Miami Beach--that signals that a week (or more) of art appreciation, parties and sensory overload is almost here. The height of activity is next Wednesday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 9, but gallery openings and other events are already starting.

Below are are seven signs that Art Basel is upon us.

The Miami Herald's  headquarters on Biscayne Bay has been sold to a developer who wants to tear it down. Historic preservationists are working to stop the demolition, saying the hulking, boxy building is a prime example of Miami Modern architecture from the 50's and 60's. NPR interviewed demolition proponents — including  some prominent architects — who say it's a clumsy building with no sense of style and not a "MiMo" design worth saving:

This week, you can find Bigfoot at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens... that is, a large sculpture of a man with unusually large feet.

Idan Zareski's "Bigfoot" will be unveiled on Tuesday at the Gardens. The sculpture, "Bigfoot," has already been featured in other countries all over the world. 

Everyone knows that the some of the busiest shopping days of year are in full force. Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so much of South Florida will spend their next few days buying things.

For those who would prefer doing something other than shopping, fear not! 

Here are some things you can do this weekend:

Two weeks ago, we asked you to co-author a story with Junot Diaz.

Last week, we asked you to remix that story with submissions that may or may not have made the final narrative.

This week, we have a winner.