By: Sarah Morton
Swagger Magazine’s highly anticipated Creators Gala, held on December 5, 2024, during Miami Art Week, was an evening to remember. A celebration of art, luxury, and innovation, the event drew tastemakers, influencers, and notable guests from around the globe to the exclusive 1 Ocean South venue in Miami Beach’s prestigious South Pointe district. Among the night’s many highlights, the work of renowned artist Narine Arakelian stood out, captivating attendees and solidifying her reputation as one of contemporary art’s most innovative voices.
At the heart of the evening was Arakelian’s stunning new exhibit, Metamorphosis of Aphrodite’s Stones, which served as a centerpiece of the gala. She is known for her ability to weave emotion, heritage, and modernity into her creations, so Arakelian once again pushed the boundaries of contemporary art with her latest collection. “I was deeply interested in creating a collaboration between AI and myself as an artist, how AI can see my art as a creator,” Arakelian shared in a recent interview. “I enjoyed working with AI because it was a discovery of my creative potential.” This exploration of technology and artistry resonated deeply with the evening’s audience.
The venue itself provided the perfect setting for Arakelian’s work. Perched high above Miami Beach, the 1 Ocean South rooftop offered sweeping views of the shimmering skyline, creating an ambiance of both serenity and sophistication. As attendees sipped on signature cocktails, such as the “Swagger Margarita” and “Cindy Prado Paloma,” and enjoyed gourmet passed appetizers prepared by top chefs, they were immersed in an environment that reflected the intersection of fine art and high fashion.
Arakelian’s exhibit resonated deeply with the evening’s diverse audience, which included distinguished figures from the arts, entertainment, and sports worlds. “The central thoughts of my recent projects are focused on existential issues—about ‘where to live to, what direction to go,’” she explained. “This is the degree of awareness that helps you to develop your capabilities and creativity and to feel the place in life that you would like to be worthy of and with which you are most comfortable being in society and with yourself alone.”
Actor Jimmy Akingbola, co-host of the gala alongside model and influencer Cindy Prado, praised the artistic brilliance of the evening. “Narine’s art was stunning, and so was the artist,” Akingbola remarked, highlighting the transformative impact of her work on the event’s overall atmosphere. His sentiments echoed the night’s mood, as guests were continually drawn back to Arakelian’s display, which managed to be both visually captivating and emotionally impactful.
As Arakelian’s 2025 calendar fills with upcoming projects, her goals remain to push creative boundaries and foster meaningful connections. “I would love to make another video art and create a more extensive exhibition,” she shared. “Right now, I am very interested in working with outdoor sculpture as a medium in public space, which would be combined in some way with the digital world.”
Beyond the art, the Creators Gala celebrated craftsmanship and innovation across multiple disciplines. Signature cocktails crafted with Authentico Organic Tequila, Hendrick’s Gin, and Sommsation Wines were complemented by Peroni Nastro Azzurro’s premium Italian lager and Freshie Organic Tequila Seltzer, ensuring guests had an elevated beverage experience throughout the night. Music by KUFF, an Ibiza-based DJ known for his electrifying fusion of Afro House and Latin Tech, kept the energy high well into the evening.
Arakelian’s participation in the Creators Gala further underscored Swagger Magazine’s commitment to highlighting bold creators who push boundaries and redefine their fields. Her exhibit was more than just a visual experience; it reflected the gala’s overarching theme of creativity and luxury as transformative forces in today’s culture.
For Narine Arakelian, the gala marked yet another milestone in her artistic journey, reaffirming her status as a visionary whose work transcends traditional boundaries. “At one time, I was inspired by Shakespeare’s work and thought globally about the meaning of life as an artist, creator, and thinker. The phrase ‘to be or not to be’ strongly influenced me,” she reflected. “At some point, I stopped at its initial premise.”
Published by Jeremy S.
