assume vivid astro focus: XI

Step into a vibrant world of collaboration and creativity with assume vivid astro focus: XI, on view at The Bass from November 13, 2024, through the 2024/2025 season. This immersive installation by São Paulo-based art collective assume vivid astro focus (avaf) combines drawing, sculpture, video, performance and large-scale installations to challenge artistic conventions and celebrate inclusivity.

Originally debuted in Miami during the 2004 Art Basel at the de la Cruz Collection, XI returns to mark its 20th anniversary, reimagined with new elements that honor Miami’s dynamic cultural landscape. The centerpiece is a newly commissioned mural paying tribute to local drag performers, reflecting avaf’s commitment to community-building and inclusivity. The installation also features Butch Queen Realness with a Twist in Pastel Colors, a nearly seven-hour video program blending works by pop-culture icons, underground artists and historical figures.

With its roots in social spaces like discos and dance parties, XI invites visitors to engage with an evolving environment where art, performance, and participation converge. This iteration of XI celebrates its gift to The Bass by Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz, solidifying its legacy as a transformative moment in Miami’s contemporary art history. Curated by Claudia Mattos, the exhibition underscores avaf’s open-ended and collaborative approach, offering a timely reflection on difference and inclusivity in today’s world.