What’s the best way to describe Art Basel Miami Beach to an alien who’s landed on our shores? The Los Angeles Times probably sums it up best: “It's a classic art show. It's a funky happening on the beach. It's a hot social scene…” Yes, that captures it in a nutshell.

For four days, this international contemporary art show (and American sister event of Art Basel in Switzerland) takes over the city with a whirlwind of special events and art happenings. Miami Beach plays host to gallery owners, art dealers, museum curators and high-end collectors from around the world.

The main part of the fair takes place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, where international galleries sell a vast array of contemporary art. In addition to the Convention Center show, there is a smorgasbord of special exhibitions, performances, visits to private collections and crossover events from the film, music, fashion, and design arenas that take place throughout the city. This year, the show drew more than 36,000 visitors.

If you plan to visit Miami Beach during Art Basel, plan ahead. Hotels in Miami and Miami Beach are full to bursting – ditto for fashionable clubs and restaurants in the Miami Design District, Wynwood Arts and Entertainment District and South Beach. Next year, Art Basel takes place December 7-10, 2006. So if a winter escape is on your list of must-dos, reserve a hotel room in advance, or pick a weekend before or after the big event.

So, what was cool about this year’s Art Basel?

Well, the MagicCityBlogger sat down and had a chat with George Neary, who is the Associate Vice President for Cultural Tourism at the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. During Art Basel, Mr. Neary holds court at the GMCVB’s information booth, handing out tons of brochures for local cultural groups, as well as maps and other information about the Magic City. Here is his “insider’s look” at the mega-event that is Art Basel.

MagicCityBlogger: So George, are you recovering from all the madness?

GN: Yes. It was quite a weekend. Art Basel had a record-breaking attendance and there were some really amazing exhibits.

MagicCityBlogger: Which ones caught your eye?

GN: The Swarovski Crystal exhibit [at the Paris Theater on Washington Avenue]. There were several objects – including a chandelier – covered with millions of tiny colored pieces of crystal. Blindingly beautiful.

MagicCityBlogger: How was the people-watching?

GN: I was too busy handing out brochures, but I did get to meet Dale Chihuly.

MagicCityBlogger: Oh, yes, the glass artist. What was he like?

GN: Very nice. Very creative.

MagicCityBlogger: What else was notable?

GN: Well, the opening of MOCA at Goldman Warehouse.

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