Can you smell that? It's the scent of European art collectors and New York City hipsters, an aroma so powerful that it lingers in the Miami air for four days each year in December. We call it Art Basel.
While we welcome the international bevy of fine, contemporary art, it's also a time for the Magic City to showcase its own talent. And for one "homegrown" organization, it's achieved through a collaborative multimedia art exhibition in Wynwood.
Miami's Independent Thinkers is dedicated to promoting Miami's "flourishing art community," including painters, musicians, filmmakers, writers, and sculptors. And they're currently holding their Miami's Independent Thinkers Art Basel 2011 Call-to-Artists.
"This will be our third Art Basel satellite fair we've produced that showcases local artists only," says Kerry McLaney, the organization's Director of Operations. "We feel its important for South Florida artists be represented to a global audience."
Between now, and November 20, artists are encouraged to submit original work to www.miamithinkers.com/submissions for approval (please note there is a $20 entry fee). The first batch of artists will receive early notification by November 1, while the final acceptance will follow on November 22.
"Whether you're an established artist or just starting out, submit," McLaney says. "We've worked with over 300 artists at this point in all levels of their careers."
She admits that Miami's on a street art and murals kick, which she thoroughly enjoys, but "would really love to see more new media and performance art" come out of Miami.
"We're really curious to see what type of work is being created and always looking for avant-garde art. This is the time to push the envelope, so to speak."
For more information, visit www.MiamiThinkers.com.
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