Unwinding my memory card with fond memories of the late nights in Miami, here’s my first-hand look at the Art Assault group show held during Art Basel Miami (12.2 – 12.5). Art Basel conjures up visions of a myriad of formal art fairs and increasingly top-notch graffiti thanks to Primary Flight. To this growing and dynamic mix, Mai Hiro & Outta My Mind Creations in conjunction with Gibson and Kramer Guitars added a spotlight on the art and culture of customizing with Art Assault which featured custom Kramer Assault 211FR guitars and the Dunny Superband featuring five 20” custom Dunnys. The show was held in Gibson’s sprawling, laid-back, and nicely appointed showroom in Miami’s prestigious Design District.
Art Assault featured custom guitars from Michael Lau, Nakanari, Pete Fowler, Christian Jacobs (Yo Gabba Gabba), 123klan, Matt Waldman (Nooka), Camilla d’Errico, Ashley Wood, Long Vo, Lebo and Oscar-winning actor/artist Jeff Bridge. With d’Errico’s beautiful, flowing design, Nakanari’s cute take on Feudal Japan and Ashley Wood’s bleak futuristic vision, the painted pieces offered a welcome variety of aesthetics. A few of the artists added a 3rd dimension to their guitars including Matthew Waldman and Pete Fowler whose Monsterism guitar was a standout of the show.
Situated within a cool concert-stage style display, the Dunny Superband featured 20” customs from kaNO, Dave ‘Outtamymind’ Quiles, Tracy Tubera, Jure Gavran, and Rotobox Vinyl Anatomica. Keep a look out for info on the upcoming Charity auction for both the guitars and the 20” Dunny customs.
Rounding out the show, Art Assault also featured a display of upcoming art toys including a strong representation of Kuso’s vinyl spring lineup including Jesse Hernandez’s Mictlan, Nakanari’s Lucky Cat Spiki figures, and Toby HK’s Fuluto line. Be sure to check out the official show video from Bluemotion below as well as our full set of photos including a few of the excellent official show shots after the jump.
