Basel is back! After a Covid-induced hiatus in 2020, Design Miami/ Basel will open to the public September 21st with a robust international program, including 27 gallery presentations, 14 Curio exhibitions, and a range of experimental and large-scale special installations. For the first time in the show’s 15-year history, works from the showfloor will also be available to view and shop online in real time. The offering will bring together exceptional and bluechip 20th-century French and Italian gems, debuting collections of exquisite art jewelry, never-before-seen contemporary collectible design from some of today’s most cutting-edge studios, and more.

Curated by outgoing Curatorial Director Aric Chen, this year’s Design Miami/ Basel will explore the thematic of Human Nature, examining the evolving relationship between humans and the increasingly constructed natural world—a dynamic that has been brought into stark focus over the past year. The dichotomy between humans and nature, once considered distinct, whether in conflict or harmony, has collapsed. Chen asks us to examine what role design might play in responding to this new reality.

Among other highlights, Superblue and Design Miami/ will present a major experiential installation of Shylights by Dutch studio DRIFT. Taking over the expansive ground-level space, this mesmerizing, upside-down forest of kinetic flowers unfolds and retreats in a fascinating choreography, mirroring the “sleeping” pattern of real flowers and evoking the sense of wonder that comes from being immersed in it.

The hybrid physical-digital format of Design Miami/ Basel will allow collectors and enthusiasts to view and shop works from the show floor directly online as well as engage in digital programming, including virtual tours and talks. According to Jennifer Roberts, Design Miami/ CEO, “We’re so pleased to be coming together again in person, while we also remain committed to bringing the very best parts of the Design Miami/ experience—our fairs, special programming, online shop, and editorial—to a wider audience through our digital platforms. We are particularly delighted to be offering our enhanced online viewing and shopping experience for the Basel edition.” ◆

Design Miami/ Basel is open to the public September 21-26, 2021. Preview day, by invitation only, is September 20th. Tickets are available for purchase here.