With so many incredible venues to see art I scheduled the new Rubell Museum for my last day. Noteable is the fact that this is the Rubell’s new 100,000 sqft space to house their private collection. This museum contributes to the rise and serious quality of collectors in Florida and Don and Mera Rubell’s tastes influence international art collecting.

This is apparent in so many of the galleries showing work in Art Basel (Convention Center), Fairs and events throughout South Florida. Last year their smaller also remarkable space exhibited the works of under collected Black artists. With the Rubell’s stamp of approval many venues were heading their advise, showing an international array of African artists.

I was impressed with the fresh approaches to media from these artists with an explosion of paper, paint , fabric and pattern. One artist that captured my eye was Amoako Boafo, a Ghana-born artist who works and lives in Austria. Mariane Ibrahim Gallery in Chicago sold out their booth in Basel. I also noticed the works in Art Miami and I believe Pulse fairs.

The influence of Austrian artist Egon Schiele cannot be denied, particularly in the application of paint which appears to be finger painted. The elongated expressionless portraits leave a feeling of loneilness balanced though with lively, delicate patterns and strong flat color. These are simple yet powerful works!

Loved these!