Last night, in time for Art Basel Miami Beach to begin, artist Michael Benisty unveiled his impressive new sculpture, “DIE TO LIVE” at the Delano Hotel (where we hear a secret Salem performance is happening tonight). Known for his portraits, Benisty employs his retouching techniques to create large-scale works. Having grown up working with diamond craftsmanship, it was fate that brought the artist to the attention of Nadia Swarovski, who collaborated with him on this sculpture. The skull is made from mirror-polished stainless steel, adorned with a fleur de lise pattern of blackgold crystals. The piece will be on full display at the Delano through this Sunday, December 4th.

Here’s to the beginning of a weekend of art!

benistyart.com

KEYWORDS: 2011, Art Basel Miami Beach, Basel, Michael Benisty