Bridget Finn, who became director of Art Basel Miami Beach in July 2023, has organized the 22nd edition of the fair from start to finish for the first time. In an interview days before the VIP opening at the Miami Beach Convention Center, she discussed welcoming 286 galleries, the importance of hospitality, and the fair's role in Miami's art scene. She highlighted 34 new galleries joining this year, notable works by Augusto Machado and Roberto Huarcaya, and the fair's efforts to engage diverse audiences including VIPs, institutions, and the general public.
The interview underscores how Art Basel Miami Beach continues to evolve under new leadership, balancing the needs of galleries and artists with outreach to collectors, museums, and a broader public. Finn's background as a cofounder of Reyes Projects and Cleopatra's space in Brooklyn brings a gallerist's perspective to the fair, emphasizing community and discovery. The fair's unique position as a hub for art, tech, fashion, and music in Miami highlights its cultural significance beyond the traditional art market.