Pop star Shakira made waves at Art Basel Miami Beach, captivating art enthusiasts with her presence as she perused the various artworks on display. Despite her recent legal troubles, Shakira showcased her love for art by attending the art fair’s VIP preview. The singer’s appearance at the renowned event created a buzz among attendees and paparazzi alike.
Just days before her trial for tax fraud in Barcelona, Shakira managed to strike a last-minute deal that helped her avoid jail time. While maintaining her innocence for the past five years, the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer was able to settle the case, receiving a suspended three-year sentence and a hefty fine of $7.6 million. This breakthrough allowed her to focus on her passion for art and immerse herself in the vibrant atmosphere of Art Basel Miami Beach.
During her visit to Art Basel Miami, Shakira found herself captivated by a 2023 artwork titled “High Priestess” by Mickalene Thomas at the Levy Gorvy Dayan gallery. Deeply engrossed in the piece, she even recorded a video of it for her personal collection. However, to her disappointment, the artwork had already been sold for a steep price of $500,000. Undeterred, a gallerist stepped in and showcased other available works by Thomas, giving Shakira a chance to explore alternative options.
Shakira was not the only celebrity in attendance at Art Basel Miami Beach. Tennis legend Serena Williams and supermodel Cindy Crawford added to the star power of the event, drawing even more attention from the art world. Among the distinguished guests were prominent art collectors Peter Brant, Tico Mugrabi, and Steve Wynn, who tirelessly searched for new pieces to add to their extensive collections. The presence of renowned artists JR, the Haas Brothers, and the art duo FriendsWithYou (Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval IIl) further elevated the artistic atmosphere.
Despite the major art names and impressive celebrity attendees, some noted that this year’s Art Basel Miami Beach felt slightly less crowded compared to previous years. Speculations arose that the economy played a role in the subdued atmosphere, causing fewer visitors to flock to the fair. Nevertheless, the parties surrounding the art fair continued to thrive, allowing attendees to indulge in the glamorous side of the event.
The art extravaganza extended beyond the walls of Art Basel Miami Beach, with numerous parties taking place in different venues across Miami. Jonathan and Lizzie Tisch set the tone by hosting a glamorous bash at the newly opened Rao’s in their Loews Miami Beach hotel, attracting notable figures such as Art Basel CEO Noah Horowitz and Princess Eugenie. Casa Tua, a Miami favorite, also hosted a lively Art Basel celebration to mark the upcoming opening of their New York outpost, with high-profile guests including art dealer Vito Schnabel and billionaire Barry Sternlicht.
Amidst the glitz and glamour, Art Basel Miami Beach continues to serve as a platform for artists and collectors to come together and celebrate the world of contemporary art. With its diverse range of artworks and renowned curators, the event allows attendees to explore different art forms and gain a deeper appreciation for the creative process. Every year, the art fair manages to captivate the attention of individuals from various fields, proving that art has the power to transcend boundaries and unite people from all walks of life.
Shakira’s visit to Art Basel Miami Beach added an extra layer of excitement to the already dynamic atmosphere of the art fair. Her passion for art, coupled with her notable presence, further emphasized the significance of the event in the global art calendar. As the art world continues to evolve, Art Basel Miami Beach remains a beacon of inspiration for both established and emerging artists, fostering creativity and pushing boundaries within the contemporary art scene.