A Personal Journey Through Scope, Aqua, and Art Basel, by Juliana Roslin.

Miami Art Week has been a cornerstone of my December tradition since the early 2000s when I worked with A.B. Levy on Worth Avenue. Over the years, it has evolved into an annual ritual that offers a vibrant glimpse into the art world’s ever-changing landscape. This year, my journey included Scope, Aqua, and Art Basel at the Convention Center—each an exceptional experience that brought something unique to the table. 

Aqua: A Surprise Gem with Pop Art Power 

Aqua was a delightful surprise this year. The fair’s unique format—a renovated boutique hotel where each room served as a private gallery—made for an intimate and authentic experience.

One of the most exciting moments at Aqua was discovering that one of my favorite pop culture artists, Ashley Longshore, had her own dedicated gallery. Seeing her and her team representing her bold and colorful work was such a thrill. Ashley’s fearless, eclectic approach to pop art storytelling continues to inspire me.

Beyond Ashley Longshore, Aqua featured an impressive lineup of global talent, including Diogo Machado, whose vibrant graffiti-inspired works stood out, and Erol Gündüz, whose surreal compositions drew me in. Victoria White showcased stunning multimedia creations, while Cecilia Freire impressed with her intricate textile designs. Dan Life’s playful crystal-encrusted sculptures and Roman Gulman’s provocative mixed-media pieces added even more layers of excitement to the fair.

Scope: A Vibrant and Eclectic Showcase

Scope brought a dynamic energy to Miami Art Week, offering a rich tapestry of global perspectives and experimental artistry. The fair stood out as a celebration of diversity, with strong representation from Caribbean and African artists.

Highlights for me included the thought-provoking textile work of Miro Kang, whose intricate pieces explored themes of identity and culture. Gabriel Dishaw amazed with his upcycled sculptures inspired by pop culture and sustainability. Foster Sakyiamah’s colorful abstract works and Katrine Hildebrandt’s organic, nature-infused pieces were also standouts.

Alanis Forde’s Caribbean-inspired portraits were deeply moving, while Andres Anza’s vibrant storytelling through layers of paint captivated my attention. Lisa Ashinoff’s dreamy landscapes brought a sense of tranquility amidst the eclectic energy of the show.

Scope also featured a refreshing shift in materials and techniques. Textile art and organic materials took center stage, and the craftsmanship was evident throughout, moving beyond traditional mixed-media prints into innovative storytelling.

Art Basel: The Pinnacle of Excellence

Art Basel at the Miami Beach Convention Center remains the crown jewel of Miami Art Week, showcasing the art world’s most distinguished names alongside emerging talent.

This year, a trend toward textile art and organic materials stood out, with Spanish moss and quilting adding narrative depth. These innovations brought a fresh perspective to the convention center’s polished, high-end atmosphere.

Among the standout artists was Paloma Teppa, whose organic installation merged art and nature. Her use of living plants and natural elements created immersive experiences that felt both contemporary and timeless. The dialogue between art, environment, and sustainability in her work was a beautiful addition to the week.

The resale market also featured prominently, with works by Botero, Warhol, Keith Haring and other iconic artists. While these pieces will always hold a place in the art world, I believe platforms like Basel should continue expanding opportunities for emerging artists to share their voices and stories.

A Flourishing Art Scene Across Miami

Miami Art Week is much more than just Art Basel at the Convention Center—it’s a citywide celebration of art and culture that transforms Miami Beach into a global hub for creativity each December. From renowned fairs like Untitled, NADA, and Design Miami, to innovative installations in the Design District, the week offers countless opportunities to explore and engage with art in all its forms.

The city’s energy, diversity, and commitment to showcasing talent make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and pop culture enthusiasts alike. Miami Art Week (learn more at MiamiArtWeek.org) is an extraordinary experience, featuring everything from emerging talent pushing boundaries to iconic masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, add Miami Art Week to your wish list for next December. It’s an event that promises to inspire, surprise, and ignite your passion for art.

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