5 Black Visual Artists You Can’t Miss at Art Basel Miami Beach 2024
Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 is turning up the heat as it celebrates five incredible years of Meridians—a special section that gives massive, mind-blowing works the space they deserve. Curated by the visionary Yasmil Raymond, this year’s lineup brings together a dynamic mix of artists from around the globe.
Whether you’re attending or keeping up online, we gathered a list of five Black artists bringing magic to this year’s fair. From Slawn’s bold and thought-provoking pieces to Calida Rawles's stunning, ethereal works, this crew is set to steal the spotlight.
Calida Rawles
Los Angeles-based artist Calida Rawles is renowned for her hyperrealistic paintings depicting Black individuals in water. Inspired by her own experiences with swimming, which she embraced as an adult, Rawles uses these water-themed works to delve into themes of racial identity and healing.
In her exhibition at the Pérez Art Museum Miami, “Away with the Tides,” Rawles explores Black life in the historic Overtown community in Miami--a city that has been deeply affected by gentrification and systemic racism.
Yinka Ilori
Yinka Ilori is a British-Nigerian multidisciplinary artist known for his vibrant and dynamic work that blends traditional Nigerian design with contemporary art.
Drawing inspiration from his heritage, Ilori creates immersive installations, furniture, and public art that explore themes of joy, community, and cultural identity. Ilori’s work will be featured in the SCOPE Art Show from December 3–8, 2024.
Egypt Hagan
Egypt Hagan is a visionary visual artist known for her captivating exploration of identity, culture, and emotion through bold, dynamic works. Her art often blends vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and surrealist elements to create pieces that challenge perceptions. Hagan’s work will be among several artists shown at the 2024 opening reception for Art of Black Miami on December 3.
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Stefan Smith
Stefan Smith’s work bridges contemporary design and storytelling. Known for his vibrant use of color and bold geometric forms, Smith draws inspiration from urban landscapes and personal narratives.
His work will also be shown at the opening reception for Art of Black Miami.
Slawn
London-based visual artist Slawn blends elements of his Yoruba heritage with contemporary youth culture in his work. He’s best known for his graffiti-inspired style, using bold, vibrant imagery to explore themes of identity, race, and societal expectations.
In his upcoming exhibition, Slawn is expected to present ten large-scale paintings influenced by his Yoruba heritage, a highlight being Mr Green Man (2024), an anthropomorphic cactus depicted as one of Slawn’s frowning caricatures.
