Founded in 2008 by 47-year-old Kourosh Nouri and 32-year-old Nadine Knotzer—both half-Iranian, half-Austrian—Carbon 12 was the first contemporary art gallery to open in Dubai with an international program. In a country where art was limited until recently, the pioneering gallery filled a gap in the market by representing diverse (established and up-and-coming artists) like André Butzer, Michael Sailstorfer, Gil Heitor Cortesão and Sara Rahbar, to name a few. 10 years later, Dubai’s art scene is in full swing and has solidified its place on the international map. “We’ve really impacted how things have evolved here, says Nouri before adding, “it feels amazing to see the art community reaching maturity”.
Next week Carbon 12 will be the only regional gallery to show in Miami at the New Art Dealers Alliance fair (a non-profit collective dedicated to showcasing new voices in contemporary art), where they’ll be exhibiting work by Bernhard Buhmann, Amir Khojasteh, Sara Rahbar, Anahita Razmi, Philip Mueller and Monika Grabuschnigg.
As regulars at Art Basel Miami Beach, we caught up with Carbon 12’s founders and asked them to give us the lowdown on where to hang, eat, drink, shop and check out art (outside the fair).
Best sandwich spot
Versailles
The Cuban Sandwich is a must.
Best lunch spot
Blue Ribbon
Literally the best sushi.
Best place for dinner
Puerta Sagua
You’ll be sure to find the entire art world dining here all week.
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Mr. Chow
Late dinner at Mr. Chow is always a good idea.
Best spot for drinks
Edition Hotel
We love the new Edition Hotel for cocktails.
Best place to party
Eden Roc
Be sure to always find a cool party happening there.
Best manicure / nail art spot
Vanity Projects
This is where all the art world girls go and get their nails done after having booked appointments months in advance. Last year, I (Nadine) literally got artwork by Buhmann and Sayal Benett on my nails.
Best galleries outside of the fair
ICA
Super excited to be there for the opening of Judy Chicago’s show.
The Bass
A must see is the Paola Pivi show curated by the amazing Justine Ludwig
Nina Johnsson Gallery
Our favourite gallery in Miami.
Best places to shop
Kith
Fairs and museums involve a lot of walking so get your fresh new sneakers at Kith.
The ultimate spa
The Standard Spa Hotel
This is where you have to unwind and indulge yourself with spa treatments and a delicious key lime pie.
