While Art Basel Miami Beach recently transformed the city into a global hub for contemporary art and design in early December, Miami’s top hotels and restaurants have also stepped up as cultural destinations — seamlessly blending art, hospitality, and cuisine. Throughout the holiday season art enthusiasts can explore exhibitions hosted at some of Miami’s most iconic hotels and restaurants. Whether wandering through vibrant hotel lobbies or savoring a meal surrounded by masterpieces, the city offers countless opportunities to engage with art in innovative settings. Here’s a guide to the standout installations and the creative minds behind them.
Seletega by Nicholas Galanin, Faith in an Infinite World by Lyra Drake, and Selections of Florida Wild by Magnus Sodamin at Faena Miami Beach
Seletega presented by Nicholas Galanin, is a powerful commentary on Indigenous identity and cultural preservation. His multi-disciplinary works invite viewers to question colonial narratives through striking installations and sculpture.
Lyra Drake’s Faith in an Infinite World features ethereal mixed-media pieces that play with themes of transformation and resilience, using layers of texture and bold color to evoke emotional introspection.
Magnus Sodamin, a Miami-based artist, introduces Selections of Florida Wild, a series of vibrantly abstract paintings inspired by the lush ecosystems of South Florida. His use of fluorescence and movement creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
Faena’s signature luxury setting—from its gilded lobby to its iconic beachfront—provides the perfect backdrop for this dynamic trio’s works. Guests can explore these installations while savoring contemporary Argentine fare at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann or indulging in an alfresco cocktail at the vibrant Tree of Life bar.
Organic Waves by Mauro Koliva at East Miami
East Miami, a sleek and modern hotel in the heart of Brickell, features Organic Waves by Italian sculptor and installation artist Mauro Koliva. Known for his use of natural and recycled materials, Koliva’s work is a poetic exploration of humanity’s connection to the environment. His fluid forms and immersive installations create a meditative escape amid the city’s hustle.
While at East Miami, visitors can enjoy the panoramic city views at Sugar and the rooftop bar, or sample the innovative Spanish-inspired cuisine at Quinto. The seamless integration of art and design here makes every moment feel curated.
Heliotropic Seekers by Beatriz Chachamovits at Eden Roc Miami Beach
Environmental artist Beatriz Chachamovits brings marine ecosystems to life with Heliotropic Seekers, her latest series hosted at Eden Roc Miami Beach. Known for her intricate drawings and interactive installations, Chachamovits aims to educate and inspire action against ocean degradation. Her works transform the hotel’s airy outdoor spaces into immersive underwater worlds. Pairing art with sustainability, this destination amplifies the importance of ecological awareness.
Eden Roc, celebrated for its classic Miami Modern architecture, also offers culinary delights at Ocean Social, where international cuisine meets oceanfront views. Set within the iconic Eden Roc Miami Beach, Ocean Social offers unparalleled views of sea and sky. The perfect place to enjoy a n upscale dinner, a leisurely lunch by the sea, a sunset aperitivo, or special event.
Jesus Pedraglio at Osaka Nikkei Miami
Renowned Peruvian artist Jesus Pedraglio brings his avant-garde approach to Osaka Nikkei Miami, a vibrant restaurant blending Japanese and Peruvian cuisines. Pedraglio’s exhibition features bold geometric sculptures and paintings that reflect Peru’s rich heritage and contemporary cultural dialogues. The synergy between his art and the restaurant’s inventive dishes, such as tiradito and Wagyu nigiri, creates a multi-sensory experience.
Osaka Nikkei Miami, with its lush interiors and artful presentation, offers a fitting venue for Pedraglio’s works. Art lovers and foodies alike will find themselves immersed in a world where flavor and form collide.
Miami’s hospitality community has redefined the city as a year-round cultural destination. Art enthusiasts and luxury travellers alike can embark on a journey that marries world-class art with luxurious hospitality. Whether wandering through vibrant hotel lobbies or savoring a meal surrounded by masterpieces, the city offers countless opportunities to engage with art in innovative settings.
