Miami in December. The air, thick with the scent of niche fragrances and sumptuous food, vibrated with a palpable energy. Art Basel, the annual mecca for art enthusiasts, collectors, and creators, had once again transformed the city into a sprawling playground of creative expression. But this year, a celebration of Black artistry drew me into its captivating embrace.
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My journey began at Technique Records, a haven for vinyl aficionados nestled in the heart of the city. The event, Horizon, curated by the visionary minds of Suzi Analogue and Never Normal Records, Paperwater, and Public Energy, and powered by the innovative force of OkayFuture Labs, promised a sonic exploration unlike any other. As the DJs, masters of their craft, took to the turntables, the room became a symphony of genres and generations. One standout selector was DJ Nico. As a child of the millennium, class of ’06, the familiar anthems of my youth—”Knuck If You Buck” and “Rock Her Hips”—wove their way into the mix. The infectious energy reminiscent of Baltimore club music, with its rapid-fire breaks and pulsating basslines, took hold, compelling me to move to its irresistible rhythm. It was a powerful reminder of music’s ability to transcend boundaries.
Leaving Technique Records, I felt a pang of hunger. A quick detour for a satisfying meal provided the necessary fuel for the artistic adventures that lay ahead.
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With renewed energy, I ventured towards Wynwood, the colorful district renowned for its murals and street art. As I made way through the bustling streets with I Love Us co-founder, Dewey, a familiar face emerged—Tarriona “Tank” Ball. She is the captivating lead vocalist of Tank and the Bangas. Her presence exuded an aura of creative brilliance (which is what stopped me in my tracks before ever realizing who it was). Tank, a Grammy-nominated poet and spoken word artist, has captivated audiences with her raw vulnerability and powerful storytelling. Her band’s unique fusion of soul, funk, and spoken word poetry has garnered critical acclaim. We exchanged a brief greeting, her warm smile radiating genuine connection, and I continued on my way, feeling the serendipitous magic of Basel unfolding before me.
My next destination was the Don’t Touch My Hair exhibit by Ayana Morris, an exploration of Black hair and its profound significance in shaping identity and self-expression. Housed within two repurposed shipping containers and a courtyard transformed into a vibrant hair salon, the exhibit was an immersive experience that celebrated the beauty, versatility, and cultural richness of Black hair. A striking mural of a Black woman, her hair flowing like a majestic crown, greeted visitors at the entrance, setting the tone for the powerful narratives within. The space was adorned with colorful combs, brushes, and curlers, each tool a symbol of the intricate artistry and self-care rituals associated with Black hair. The exhibit served as an artful reminder of the historical and societal weight that Black hair carries, and its power as a symbol of identity and pride.
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Seeking a momentary respite from the artistic immersion, I sought refuge at the Miami Mojito Company, a beloved local spot where Celia Cruz blasted from the speakers.
Dante’s HiFi, a dimly lit listening bar exuding an intimate ambiance, beckoned me with its promise of creative encounters. Stepping inside, I was immediately drawn to the sounds of Rich Medina, who was celebrating his 55th birthday. Jarobi White, a founding member of the legendary hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest was part of the courtyard’s lineup, but found his way inside. After a quick hello, he trekked back outside to the sea of people in the venue’s courtyard.
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A momentary detour to the restroom led to another serendipitous encounter. I crossed paths with Aja Graydon-Dantzler, one half of the soulful duo Kindred the Family Soul. The quintessential neo-soul act, has resonated deeply with listeners for decades. Aja’s presence exuded warmth and authenticity. She spoke of the love and support she and her husband had received in Miami.
Returning to the courtyard, I encountered another icon of hip-hop—Spinderella, the famed DJ who defied expectations and shattered glass ceilings in the male-dominated world of music. As a member of the Grammy-winning group Salt-N-Pepa, she helped pave the way for women in the industry, her influence inspiring generations of female artists. Our shared bond as sorors of Sigma Gamma Rho deepened our connection, our greeting filled with warmth and sisterly affection. Her presence at Dante’s, felt like a convergence of Black music royalty.
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The energy of Dante’s, fueled by the rhythms and the presence of musical icons, left me craving a late-night indulgence. A juicy burger hit the spot, providing the perfect sustenance for another round of dancing under the Miami night sky.
As the night began to wind down for us, I stumbled upon an activation sponsored by Bacardi and Diggin’ in the Crates. Inspired by Hype Williams’ visually stunning film Belly, I joined others in posing for a series of portraits, captured by Adedayo Kosoko. Melanin looks really great under blue lights.
The visibility and influence of Black artists at Art Basel filled me with a sense of pride and hope. It was a much-needed reminder that our stories matter, our voices deserve to be amplified, and our creativity has the power to transform the world. This Basel, I found myself immersed in Black art and unapologetic self-expression. It was an experience that resonated deep within my soul, leaving me inspired, energized, and eager to continue the journey of celebrating and amplifying Black voices in the arts.
While the presence of Black artists at Basel was undeniable, we want to ensure that this is not a fleeting trend but a lasting shift towards a more inclusive and equitable art world. We will continue to advocate for opportunities that allow Black artists to thrive and to reshape the narrative of art history.
I Love Us is already dreaming of 2025. We envision creating our own immersive experience where Black creatives and art enthusiasts can connect, collaborate, and pool the power of our collective expression. Imagine a space where music, visual art, and thought-provoking dialogue converge, where emerging voices share the stage, and where innovation can ignite. Stay tuned for 2025, where I Love Us will continue the celebration of Black artistry in bold and unforgettable ways.
Cover photo: Art Basel 2024 Recap: Celebrating Black Art and Culture / Credit: Dante’s HiFi
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