By KARINE MELISSA

Special to the South Florida Times

Art Basel reigns in Miami as the largest exposition of artistic expression. Its goal is to connect the world’s premier galleries, artists and patrons. The energy is contagious, breathtaking and unifying. Art is a universal language that we all speak; connecting our communities in an indescribable way. It speaks passion, essence, culture and appreciation.

During Basel, artists and patrons flood the streets of Miami to bring out their inner magnificence through eclectic visual creativity. Through the beauty of it all, philanthropy comes alive in the hearts of people. Many events connect with various causes to bring life to our community.

On opening night (December 1), I had the pleasure of attending two incredible events. My first stop was to see the exclusive pop-up experience introducing the “Mad Rich Collection” by Fly Supply Clothing Co.

The event took place at Suite 718 Sneaker Boutique with walls filled with artistic canvases and dope apparel like only Fly Supply can create.

The collection consists of urban clichés and tag lines that empower modern-day, young black males to work hard and dream big.

Started in 2011 by Reggie Bourdeau, Garrett Brown, Rick Maxwell, and Kevin “KP” Pamphile, the clothing company has developed a dynamic montage of urban elites in sports and entertainment who wear their edgy and creative graphics. My favorite artistic treasures of the night were: “Keep your eyes on the prize, ON POINT” and “The $ just keeps on calling, MONEY TALKS.”

The event was hosted by 99 Jamz’s very own Supa Cindy and proved a night to remember. After getting a chance to take a picture with all of the founders, it was time to head over to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for the exclusive Diamonds Unleashed Cocktail Party.

The event was titled “Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve.” It was a creative, one-of-a-kind, wearable art exhibition. The Asian décor of the hotel added to the brilliant fusion of fashion, fine art and philanthropy. This upscale social affair was filled with industry professionals from all three sectors.

The installation in the hotel lobby was a very dramatic and bold display of unique materials used to design dresses in various styles. My favorite artistic expression of the night was Fire Diamonds by Amit Greenberg. This dress was amazing! It was fashioned with acrylic paint and acrylic strips cascading down into a bold red. Along with the wearable art on display at the party, they also had a 40 ft. booth display in the main tent at Art Miami.

During all of the excitement, I was able to talk to Jaclynn Brennan, the VP and Creative Director of Diamonds Unleashed by Kara Ross. She is filled with dynamic energy and fabulous personality.

“Diamonds Unleashed by Kara Ross is a social impact brand that inspires women’s self worth and creates educational and microfinance opportunities for women and girls,” Brennan said. “We collaborated with top artists and CFDA jewelry designers this year for Art Miami 2016 and partnered with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. We believe that fashion is art; and the fusion mixed with philanthropy is a powerful message that resonates throughout all cultures and society.”

It was a wonderful end to a beautiful opening night of Art Basel in Miami. When art, fashion and philanthropy come together there will always be an indescribable energy in the community which creates a beautiful balance of passion and appreciation.

To learn more about Fly Supply Co. visit www.flysupplyco.com. To learn more about Diamonds Unleashed by Kara Ross, visit www.kararossny.com.