It’s officially that time of year! Miami Art Week has arrived and Art Basel celebrates 22 years in the city, promising a fantastic affair. Being in the center of the art world, there’s no doubt that the city has plenty of fun, new art to discover, but it can get a little pricey. That’s why we thought we’d gather up some free stunning art installations, exhibits and events that you simply can’t miss out on.
That being said, here’s a rundown of public art and events that are completely free. Happy Baseling!
1. The Great Elephant Migration
A herd of 100 elephants have taken up residence in South Beach! They’re not exactly real, but this unique installation features the life-sized animals made of lantana camara, an invasive weed that threatens the elephants’ natural habitat. Each one has been created by an Indigenous artisan from Southern India, with the goal of raising awareness and funds for human-wildlife coexistence projects.
When: Now – December 8
Where: 36th & 37th Street, Miami Beach
2. “Lumen” by Daniel Popper
Lumen, a large-scale sculpture by Daniel Popper that is inspired by Wynwood’s vibrant history and creative spirit, has arrived at Society Wynwood! The 30-foot marvel, covered entirely in cracked tile mosaic, can be seen in the 2nd Ave entryway of the apartment community. And as the sun sets, you can witness it come to life with light mapping!
When: Permanent installation now on view
Where: 2431 NW 2nd Ave., Miami, FL 33127
3. “XO World” and “Dream Machine”
Lincoln Road has unveiled two monumental sculptures for Art Week: the 20,000 pound, stainless steel “XO World” by contemporary abstract sculptor and painter Daniel Anderson, as well as 10-by-13-foot butterfly wings titled “Dream Machine” by visual artist Rubem Robierb. Anderson’s installation is inspired by the universal game of jacks, while the life-sized wings represent the materialization of our innermost wishes.
When: Now – 2025
Where: 400 and 900 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
4. “Pearl Jam” by Nicole Nomsa Moyo
Named this year’s Annual Design Commission winner, Nicole Nomsa Moyo is transforming Miami Design District with this vibrant installation. Featuring jewelry-themed sculptures, from giant pearls to a bracelet, and more than a thousand handcrafted earrings by indigenous Ndebele women can be seen throughout the neighborhood.
When: Now – Spring 2025
Where: Miami Design District, Miami, FL 33137
5. “Seletega” by Nicholas Galanin
On the sands of Miami Beach, directly behind Faena Hotel, you’ll come across a massive Spanish galleon rising from the ground by Tlingit/Unangax artist Nicholas Galanin. As part of Faena Art’s programming for Art Week this year, this 40-foot-tall installation calls on viewers to reflect on their responsibilities in shaping the future of the world by symbolizing colonial history and liberation.
When: December 3 – 8
Where: 3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
6. “Sundial Spectrum” by Jen Stark
Throughout Española Way — as part of Elevate Española — you’ll find a burst of vibrant colors and kaleidoscopic works by local artist Jen Stark. This site-specific installation comprises of 13 hanging panels on vinyl laminated polycarbonate along with large-scale murals lined along the walkway. Inspired by geometry and natural forms, the hypnotic patterns will shift throughout the day.
When: Now – February 9, 2025
Where: Española Way (between Washington Avenue and Collins Court), Miami Beach
7. No Vacancy, Miami Beach
![“Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Micro-verse” by [dNASAb] at The Betsy South Beach](https://offloadmedia.feverup.com/secretmiami.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/05151720/unnamed-3.jpg)
From “Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Micro-verse” by [dNASAb] at The Betsy South Beach to “Soft Squeeze” by We Are Nice’n Easy at Esmé, click here to find a list of participating hotels, artists and their exhibitions.
When: Now – December 12
8. HIVE Wynwood
Returning to Wynwood Marketplace, HIVE is a free, action-packed weekend of art, entertainment and food kicking off during Miami Art Week. Spanning for four days, the pop-up will highlight immersive art experiences by artists, culinary delights and daily mixology presentations, as well as live music.
When: December 5 – 8
Where: 2250 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127
9. Cartier: Trinity 100
Another Art Week pop-up that’s completely free to visit is this Miami Design District pop-up that celebrates the 100th anniversary of Cartier’s Trinity collection. Step into five experiential spaces, each offering a different glimpse into the collection’s journey from its creation by Louis Cartier in 1924 to its influence today.
When: December 4 – 8
Where: 23 NE 41st St., Miami, FL 33137
10. IKEA Sleepeasy
In what is probably the dreamiest event happening during Basel, IKEA is debuting the IKEA Sleepeasy in Wynwood. Running for three days, this immersive speakeasy is dedicated to all things sleep — featuring music, treats, interactive displays, a sound bath and all kinds of sleep-tastic fun. It all starts at 11 a.m. each day!
When: December 6 – 8
Where: 391 NW 24th Street Miami, FL 33127
11. “Sabores Sounds” EP Release Party
In collaboration with iconic record label, Terrestrial Funk, Topo Chico will take over Gramps Getaway for an all-night celebration of the release of its “Sabores Sounds” EP, with performances from Coral Morphologic, Psychic Mirrors, Pablo Arrangoiz (DJ El Gusano), DJ Ray and DJ EZ Dee. There will be an open bar, curated Topo Chico cocktails and a limited-edition CD player for the first 150 attendees!
When: Sunday, December 8
Where: 3301 Rickenbacker Cswy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149