Written by Sanna Tomterling on CafeMom’s blog, The Stir
Art Basel can get pretty crowded at certain times of the week, and it sure doesn’t take long to realize that half the attendees aren’t there for the art. Yes, we’re talking about the parties!
The event arrives annually at the same time every year. So it’s not like you can save the art for your gallery crawl in December.
What can you expect to find at Art Basel parties? Basically everyone in the world: A-list celebrities, fashion designers, art curators, art dealers, rock stars, movie stars, athletes and anyone else with cash on hand.
And although those long lists of people give a sense of the enormity of the event, we can assure you that whatever party you’re going to in Miami isn’t the only one! There are several festive events taking place throughout the week, and in one spot at least you’ll encounter rap superstar Cardi B.
Friday evening, Cardi will open a Cirque Du Soleil-style production of the Cirque Du Soleil spectacle “Dralion” at a palatial mansion on South Beach. It’s expected to draw a large crowd of elite movers and shakers, and perhaps even other musical guests.
Which means she has to stay cool, cool, cool in the face of all the glitter and alcohol. How does a fresh-faced rapper party like a star in the depths of art, culture and the city of Miami? We found the tips of a pro in her experience with Art Basel parties!
This isn’t your mom’s parties: Conceivably you could find yourself face-to-face with a Kim Kardashian in an Art Basel party. But don’t get freaked out! There is definitely fun to be had in “Dralion,” as well as food, drink and entertainment that wouldn’t fit on a regular night out. And contrary to what you may have heard, you can still get papped outside that event, too! If you don’t get these “important” celebrities to participate, one of their crew could!
Don’t act like a celebrity: Don’t wear your most expensive outfit, nor will it impress anyone. And if your outfit is acceptable, don’t worry about wearing your best accessory. That’s for another night, when the celebs are there. You’d better arrive in style, and stay in style!
You don’t have to dine: Some of the hottest parties all center around celebrity cuisine. However, don’t get the wrong idea. If you and your cohort really have to make a social hub of the party, eat beforehand. And don’t get dished out food at the bottom of the stairs at the event’s entrance. The guests will be busy making it into their cars by then.
There is a big entrance: A lot of public events have an “official” entrance. In other words, a white, truck-like vehicle will drive you up and drop you off. Yes, it is considered good form to take that entrance because you’re totally legitimizing it as a cultural event worthy of an entry pass — even if a huge black car that no one knows how to get to is as close as you’re gonna get.
You can’t go back home: Seriously, no matter where you go in Art Basel, you will be asked about where you went to school. So, naturally, people are more than willing to ask you the same question at a party. Pause to relax and remember that the person who asked you about college does not, in fact, understand the institution you went to.
Don’t judge the promoter: If you want to have a great time, your best bet is to make sure you find a party promoter who is real, honest and cool. Good organizers do not mislead you by talking about parties that are so far off that they don’t have any. Likewise, party promoters are not lying when they tell you that something is a “solo” event and not “part.” Also, think seriously before writing reviews of the parties you attend or just contribute in any way, because you are not a party judge.
CULTURE CRIME ™ AND © 2018 SCREENSHOT, LLC