Miami VIPs intent on partying like it’s Art Basel, without Art Basel

November 30, 2020

Art Basel may be officially canceled because of the coronavirus, but the 1-percenters are determined to have their annual Miami bacchanal regardless, Page Six is told — despite the fears of the locals.

Even though organizers of the famed December art festival have pulled the plug, there’s still a swirl of happenings around town, including sister event Design Miami.

Fresh from her $100 million-plus divorce, socialite Libbie Mugrabi seems to be taking the opportunity to supplant Aby Rosen — whose annual bash was once the glitziest — as the reigning head hedonist of the art world. She plans to throw a dinner “with only A-listers and artists” at the Faena Hotel, telling the New York Times, “It’ll be like 50 people max” and that everybody will be tested for COVID-19. “They can wear a mask if somebody wants,” she said. “I won’t wear one, but other people can.”

On Sunday, Alan Faena hosted a preview at his swanky hotel for an installation entitled “Dreaming With Lions.” A rep told us it was socially distanced, outdoors and masks were required. “There were remarks by Alan and refreshments served, but not a party following.”

Other events on the social calendar include David Einhorn’s $750 charity dinner at David Grutman’s Papi Steak, and Nicky Jam’s concert at Bardot in Wynwood for 50 people, who will be COVID tested on-site. Hotels are packed, we hear, and one resident told us: “It’s like people in Florida don’t believe COVID exists. It’s the craziest thing.”

Another Miami source told us, “All that people want is to feel that Miami is safe and that this is being taken seriously.” Design Miami’s Craig Robins told the Times, “I understand some are saying, ‘Oh my God, this will be a disaster to do this kind of thing.’ It’s the opposite. It’s not about a bunch of people flying in from around the world. It’s about a bunch of people spending the season in South Florida and doing things that they feel are within boundaries that are responsible.”

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