On Leading Art Basel Miami Beach
Bridget Finn, who became the director of Art Basel Miami Beach in 2023, is bringing a fresh vision to the prestigious art fair, focusing on maintaining its crucial role as a connector of art in the Americas and beyond. Having deep experience in the gallery world, including working with Anton Kern Gallery and later co-founding Reyes Finn in Detroit, Finn understands the needs of gallerists and artists alike. Under her leadership, the fair is expanding its representation of small and midsize galleries, ensuring that those with fewer resources can participate and thrive alongside their larger counterparts.
Art Basel Miami Beach,
which will feature 285 galleries from 38 countries in 2024, continues to be a key event for global art collectors and creators. Finn emphasizes the fair’s role as a geographical connector, reflecting the rich artistic diversity of both North and South America. The introduction of a sliding-scale pricing model for booth spaces is one of several initiatives aimed at making the fair more inclusive and accessible. This move aligns with Finn's goal of refining the fair’s program to create a tailored experience for both first-time visitors and seasoned art lovers.
In addition to her fair responsibilities,
Finn’s work extends to philanthropic efforts, particularly in supporting research for rare neurodevelopmental diseases, following the diagnosis of her daughter with STXBP1. This dedication to problem-solving reflects Finn’s broader approach to leadership, which is rooted in collaboration and a deep understanding of the contemporary art scene. As Art Basel Miami Beach continues to evolve under her direction, it remains a critical gathering point for the art world, blending new talent with established galleries in a celebration of global creativity.