Works by Chinese artist Zhang Yu at Art Basel Miami Beach in Miami, Florida, the United States. Zhang's work shows the conflict between animal and human, which is also a reflection of social relations between people. [Photo/China.org.cn]

New York still reigns as one of the world's premiere art capitals. However, after the 13th Art Basel Miami Beach art fair on Dec. 3-7 and the more than 20 parallel shows such as Art Miami and SCOPE Miami Beach accompanied it, that city clearly is now not only the capital of Art Deco architecture, but also the contemporary art capital of the Americas and beyond.

This year's art fair and its parallel shows and museum exhibitions also saw major participation from more and more Chinese artists, collectors and galleries.

Chinese galleries Beijing Commune and Long March took part in the main show while others presented their artists at parallel shows: Amy Li Gallery made an appearance at Context by Art Miami and Beautiful Asset Art Project Beijing was at SCOPE Miami Beach.

During the art-filled week, Miami-Dade College presented a performance by Chinese choreographer Shen Wei, while the Frost Museum of Florida International University exhibited a collection of photographs by photographer Wang Qingsong.

Marc Spiegler, director of Art Basel, confirmed growing Chinese participation in the event, stating, "The speed at which the collector scene in Asia -- but especially in China -- is developing and impressive."

According to AXA Insurance, works sold at Art Basel Miami Beach alone totaled US$3 billion, up 17% from last year. Luminaries such as Hollywood idol Leonardo DiCaprio and music mogul Sean Combs joined over 70,000 visitors who viewed art at the booths of 267 galleries.