Miami Art Collective Urges Boycott of Art Basel 2026

**Title: Miami Beach Protest: Art Basel Faces Criticism Over Ties to Controversial Investments**

On December 6, in front of the Miami Beach Convention Center, a coalition of artists and activists protested against Art Basel, criticizing its connections to Israeli weapon manufacturing and highlighting environmental concerns. Led by a Miami-based group, Artists 4 Artists (A4A), the demonstrators also pushed for a boycott of the fair in 2026 due to its alleged negative impact on the local arts community and ecosystem.

The protest emphasized UBS’s investments in Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense company, and the significant investment of Miami-Dade County in Israeli bonds. Many activists, including members of Jewish Voice for Peace, voiced concerns over the compounding effects of such alliances on global and local scales. Despite police presence, including a sniper, the protest was peaceful, with participants distributing artistic materials by Palestinian creators.

Key voices, like Elias Rischmawi and misael soto, highlighted the protest’s intersectional nature, drawing connections between local struggles and international conflicts. They urged for Art Basel to realign its priorities towards more inclusive and community-focused practices.

Simultaneously, the protest reflected broader societal concerns, encompassing themes of late-stage capitalism and the commodification of art and culture. As Miami continues to serve as a cultural hub, activists call for an artistic vision that empowers creators rather than sidelining their communities.