The collector and philanthropist Karla Harwich is based in New York, where she currently serves as the chair of the board of trustees at El Museo del Barrio, but she was born and raised in Miami. She relishes returning to her hometown for Miami Art Week, and visiting her favourite restaurants, hangouts and museums—and, of course, the fairs.
In addition to helping El Museo grow its collection by more than 20 works since joining its board in 2020, her own collection is formidable and includes works by Oscar Muñoz, Zé Carlos Garcia, ektor garcia, Myra Landau, Liliana Porter, Lina Puerta, Daniel Correa Mejía and many others. She recently discussed her most recent purchases and shared her favourite destinations in Miami.
Karla Harwich with one of her most recent acquisitions, Cristina Camacho’s Lo Que se Hereda #7 Photo by Peter Harwich
The Art Newspaper: What was the first work you ever bought?
Karla Harwich: A diorama by Patrick Jacobs and a Louise Nevelson Pace edition.
What was the most recent work you bought?
Nicolas Paris Naturaleza Domestica (butacas) and a Carlos Rojas painting from his El Dorado series, both from ArtBo, and Cristina Camacho’s Lo Que se Hereda #7 from her recent show at Instituto de Vision.
What do you regret not buying when you had the chance?
Anything by Rashid Johnson when it was more affordable, a Wifredo Lam work on paper and a Laura Aguilar photograph—I underbid at auction!
If you could have any work from any museum in the world, what would it be?
Absolutely anything by Ana Mendieta and an Ad Reinhardt black painting.
Karla Harwich with a painting by Vivian Suter Photo by Peter Harwich
Where do you like to eat and drink in Miami?
Joe’s Stone Crab! Also my kids always love ordering in from Pollo Tropical the first night we arrive, it’s a family tradition.
What’s your least favorite thing about art fairs?
It’s hard to see everything.
Where do you go to relax and unwind in Miami?
The beach and anywhere at The Surf Club hotel.
What tip would you give to someone visiting Miami for the first time?
Breathe in the air and go to the beach. Eat seafood and Cuban food and go to the amazing museums and private collections such as Espacio 23.
