Art Basel Unofficially Kicks Off With Design Miami/

Since Art Basel doesn’t technically begin until tomorrow night, all eyes are on that big white tent across the street from the convention center known as Design Miami/. And while tonight’s VIP vernissage marks the opening of the fair, many have been celebrating since the weekend.

On Sunday, Cultured Magazine threw an intimate dinner for Design Miami’s new Director, Marianne Goebl, at the home of photographer Greg Lotus. Hosted by Cultured‘s Editor, Sarah Harrelson, the evening was shared with a group of collectors, dealers, and designers—including Zaha Hadid, Michelle and Jason Rubell, Didier and Clemence Krzentowski, Rafael de Cárdenas, and Iran Issa-Khan—many of whom are included in the magazine’s new issue. Harrelson, who gave a gracious toast before guests tucked into their poached pears and profiteroles, noted that her magazine is co-hosting one more dinner after the vernissage with R20th Century and Gallery Seomi, where she’ll happily spend the night not worrying about where she has to be next.

Last night, Silvia Fendi hosted a Design Miami/ welcome cocktail at the W Hotel. Fendi, a longtime supporter (and sponsor) of the fair, welcomed design world luminaries Ron Arad, Stephen Burks, Patrick Seguin, and Design Miami/ founder Craig Robins.

This afternoon’s Design Miami/ Collector’s Preview added plenty more star wattage to the mix: Pharrell Williams, Tobias Meyer, Simon de Pury, Benedikt Taschen, and Brett Ratner were among the throngs of collectors anxious to get a first look at the pieces on view. And judging by the many smiling faces from within the booths, the buying frenzy has officially begun.

Photo: Getty Images