The Art of Immersion: Cory Paul Martin’s Unforgettable Basel Week
Art Basel Miami is where creativity meets excess, where every moment becomes a canvas for self-expression. This year, few embodied its spirit as seamlessly as Cory Paul Martin. From exclusive rooftop soirées to avant-garde exhibitions, Cory navigated the week with a blend of curiosity and intention, proving that the art of immersion is as much about connection as it is about creativity.
“Basel Was Perfection”
For Cory, Art Basel wasn’t just an event; it was an ecosystem of energy. His schedule read like a who’s who of cultural moments—Bruce Stars’ birthday at the Wall at W, the Balmain event at Mila, and the Soho House tent were just the beginning. Yet, what set Cory apart wasn’t his ability to attend but his capacity to engage.
“Basel was perfection,” he reflects, recounting a week that balanced high-octane events with meaningful interactions. Among the highlights was Jeff Altman’s private house party, a night Cory describes as “on another level.” The music was “insane,” the vibe unmatched—a quintessential Basel experience that fused the pulse of the city with an intimate, electric energy.
Tech Meets Culture at Bit Basel
At Bit Basel, the tech-forward satellite event, Cory found inspiration in Yvette Lopez, a visionary at the intersection of art and innovation. “Her ability to bridge tech and culture stood out,” he says. “She’s leading the future.” It was a moment that encapsulated the spirit of Art Basel 2024—an ever-evolving dialogue between tradition and technology, creativity and commerce.
Where Luxury Meets Edge
Balmain’s members lounge soirée at Mila was another standout, a perfect fusion of haute couture and Miami’s signature grit. “Balmain at Mila was where luxury met Miami edge—fashion, ambiance, and rooftop vibes with Nikita,” Cory says, recalling the seamless blend of sophistication and bold energy that defined the evening.
Art That Speaks
Amidst the glamour, Cory found himself drawn to the raw power of “Entitled,” a collection he explored with Ambra Gutierrez. “It was raw and emotional—art that demanded attention,” he explains. The experience wasn’t just visual; it was visceral, sparking conversations that lingered well beyond the gallery walls.
The Spell of the Infinity Room
Few moments captured the magic of Art Basel like Factory Town’s Infinity Room, an immersive experience of sound and light that felt otherworldly. With a crew that included Hershey, Sophie Schaffer, Krissy Kat, Vicente, and an extraordinary lineup of DJs, Cory describes the night as “pure magic.” The Infinity Room wasn’t just an event; it was a feeling, an ephemeral moment that seemed to exist outside of time.
A Pause for Connection
In a week defined by spectacle, Julia Mina’s birthday celebration offered a rare moment of stillness. “It was a heartfelt pause in a high-energy week,” Cory says, reflecting on the intimacy of the gathering. It was a reminder that even amidst the frenzy of Basel, connection remains at the heart of the experience.
A Vision Rooted in Culture
Cory’s week at Art Basel wasn’t just a reflection of his love for art and culture—it was an extension of his own philosophy. As the driving force behind T.O. Mezcal, a brand dedicated to community and connection, Cory sees parallels between the creativity of the art world and the craftsmanship of mezcal.
“T.O. Mezcal is about more than a drink—it’s about community, culture, and connection,” he says. “I want to take that energy global and keep building moments around it.”
The Future of Art Is Now
For Cory, Art Basel 2024 wasn’t just a celebration of art—it was a glimpse into its future. “This year reflected an art world where fashion, music, and creativity all collide,” he observes, emphasizing the bold, boundary-breaking spirit of the event.
As the week came to a close, Cory’s journey through Basel stood as a testament to the art of immersion. From wild parties to intimate conversations, avant-garde exhibitions to heartfelt moments, Cory’s experience was more than a highlight reel—it was a masterclass in living artfully. For him, Basel wasn’t just about being seen; it was about seeing, feeling, and creating connections that linger long after the last light fades.
