Art By Tai at Aqua Art Miami - Art Basel week
Wed Dec 6, 3:00 PM - Sun Dec 10, 6:00 PM

Aqua’s unique environment – in a classic South Beach hotel with spacious exhibition rooms that open onto a breezy, intimate courtyard – has become a favorite gathering spot for collectors, curators and art lovers to discover fresh talent and acquire new works while exchanging cultural ideas and forming meaningful connections.

Aqua Art Miami, which will kick off with a VIP Preview on Wednesday, December 6 and be open to the public December 7 - 10, has become the premier destination for prominent collectors and art aficionados to procure works by young, emerging and mid-career artists. Throughout the years, Aqua Art Miami has continued to solidify itself as a completely unique fair, consistently staying true to its signature relaxed yet energetic vibe. The 2017 edition will feature 47 international exhibitors showcasing fresh new works, and set in the intimate exhibition rooms that open into a beautiful courtyard, all found within the classic South Beach hotel.

On exhibit in the Ol’ Blue Gallery room will be a collection of surreal illustrations and mixed-media artworks by internationally renowned artist Tai Taeoalii and will additionally feature a collection of identity-reflective works by Utah-born artist Jared Knight.

Infused with social and political commentary, Tai’s surreal ballpoint pen drawings on Mylar paper, blended with watercolor, color pencil, and charcoal smearing techniques, evoke dream-like visuals and uniquely challenge viewers to consider inner-opinions they were not aware they possessed.
“With the inspiration of music and the nostalgic memories of my turbulent teenage years, I’ve utilized my self-taught techniques, spawn from urban doctrines, in an effort to create art that evokes an honest & hopefully profound emotional experience.” – Tai Taeoalii

Growing up bi-racial in the predominantly white suburbs of Salt Lake City, Utah, Tai fabricated a self- perception of abomination. Tormented with that angst and confusion at such a young age, he was