Art Basel Miami 2024 unfolded in early December, bringing the Magic City alive with the vibrant energy of contemporary art. Every year, this renowned event attracts over 200 of the top art galleries across the United States, along with prominent museums showcasing their finest works. Since its inception in 2002, Art Basel Miami has firmly established itself as one of North America’s most prestigious art fairs.
Attendees are treated to an extraordinary display of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photography, featuring over 4,000 artists from around the globe. Notably, Art Basel is held annually in three key locations: Basel (Switzerland), Hong Kong, and Miami, making the Miami edition a must-attend event for art enthusiasts and aficionados worldwide.

“Jamaica on My Mind: Aliveness and Livity” Exhibition
Curated by Phillip Thomas, a professor at the Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston, Jamaica, the “Jamaica on My Mind: Aliveness and Livity” exhibition was a standout feature of this year’s Art Basel Miami. Organised by Ten North Group, the exhibition convened 15 talented artists from Jamaica and the Jamaican diaspora, presenting a deeply reflective exploration of transformation, emancipation, and personal evolution.
The exhibition delved into themes of accomplishment and the individual’s journey to reestablish their presence within the wider world. Set against the backdrop of Ten North Group’s Art of Transformation Campus in Opa-locka, Miami, the exhibition underscored the organisation’s mission to mobilise arts and culture for community empowerment.
Featured artists included Oneika Russell, Katrina Coombs, Omari Ra, Milton George, Sasha-K Nicole, K. Khalifa Ra, Greg Bailey, Bryan McFarlane, Peter Wayne Lewis, Sharon Norwood, Kimani Beckford, Shedine Fletcher, Camille Chedda, David Boxer, Teuesdea Stewart, and Simon Benjamin.
Held at the historic Opa-locka Train Station, the exhibition not only highlighted the history of Jamaican contemporary art but also examined its political, social, and economic dimensions.

Jamaican Cocktail Reception and Artists Panel Discussion
Two remarkable events enriched the “Jamaica on My Mind: Aliveness and Livity” exhibition:
- Jamaican Cocktail Reception: This vibrant gathering offered attendees the chance to meet the featured artists while immersing themselves in Jamaican music and culture. The event included remarks from Oliver Mair, Jamaican Consul General to Miami and the Southern United States. Hosted by Tanto Irie of Reggae Runnins on HOT 105, with music by Jason Panton and Dubwise, the reception was sponsored by Jamaicans.com, Dutch Pot Restaurant, and South Florida Caribbean News.
- Artists Panel Discussion: This engaging session featured artists, critics, and scholars discussing the evolution of Jamaican contemporary art through political, social, and economic lenses.

A Triumph for Jamaican Art
Reflecting on the exhibition, Phillip Thomas expressed his pride in curating an event that authentically represented Jamaica’s rich aesthetic and artistic culture. Art Basel Miami 2024 provided a unique platform to spotlight the creativity and depth of Jamaican contemporary art, leaving an indelible mark on attendees and solidifying its influence in the global art community.