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McDonald’s, in collaboration with Arte Haus Studios — a creative collective founded by Kendall Hurns dedicated to elevating emerging Black artists— made its mark at Art Basel with Unc’s Arte Haus, a four-day series of immersive events (Dec. 3–6) spotlighting the powerful roles of kinship, creativity, and community in shaping culture.
Through elevated culinary storytelling, art installations, and performances, McDonald’s created a vibrant cultural hub that highlighted the work of local and global artists – including Hebru Brantley, Howard D. Simmons, Ashley Chappell, Calvin Clausell, Shani Crowe, Harold Caudio, Amani Lewis, Cristina Martinez, and Demetrius Williamson – alongside influential creators, restaurateurs, comedians, and musicians. Art featured throughout Unc’s Arte Haus included QR codes that allowed guests to access the collection and support the artists.
Reimagining Black Storytelling at Unc’s Arte Haus
Unc’s Arte Haus reimagines how McDonald’s shows up in artistic and cultural spaces by centering Black creativity and storytelling. Through culinary collaborations, immersive art, community-led conversations, and partnerships with local Black-owned businesses, former Crew members and owner/operators, McDonald’s continues its commitment to amplifying Black voices and fostering spaces where creativity and culture thrive.
A Weekend of Black Culture and Creativity
McDonald’s set the tone for Art Basel with an intimate kickoff at Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s Las’ Lap. Hosted by Ms. Basketball with sounds by DJ Fly Guy, guests enjoyed bold flavor remixes curated by Chef Kwame and experienced a first look at the art and cultural storytelling driving Unc’s Arte Haus. The evening brought together creators, tastemakers, and local Miami leaders to celebrate Black creativity in an elevated, invite-only setting.
Laughter, flavor, and culture came together for a one-of-a-kind dinner experience led by Chef Nancie Greene and Kimmy Kreations, who reimagined McCrispy Strips™ for the night. Guests were entertained by comedians Deon Cole, Comedian CP, and Lance Woods, followed by a live podcast conversation hosted by Kenny Burns and ElevateHers. The energy captured the warmth of family dinners, the humor of “Unc,” and the joy of gathering in community.
The weekend’s main attraction drew hundreds for a vibrant daytime celebration hosted by Loren Lorosa and Dometi Pongo. Guests experienced:
- Immersive environments inspired by “Unc’s Lair” and “Auntie’s She Shed”
- Art installations featuring works by Hebru Brantley, Howard D. Simmons, Ashley Chappell, Calvin Clausell, Shani Crowe, Harold Caudio, Amani Lewis, Cristina Martinez, and Demetrius Williamson
- McDonald’s 1 in 8 art installation featuring Professional BMX athlete and creative director Nigel Sylvester’s life-size nugget bike and Arte Haus Studios founder and Unc’s Arte Haus collaborator Kendall Hurn’s McDonald’s 1 in 8 Varsity Jacket.
- Interactive food stations and remixed menu tastings from Chef Kwame Onwuachi
- A show-stopping performance by Jeezy featuring the FAMU Marching 100
McDonald’s owner/operator Marc O’Ferrell joined the celebration, highlighting McDonald’s longstanding commitment to uplifting communities, Black creativity, and the journeys of the 1 in 8 Americans who start their careers under the Golden Arches — including Chef Kwame and Kendall Hurns, who were part of this weekend’s programming.
To wrap things up, McDonald’s partnered with Nothin’ But Anthems and Charles Beloved Productions to transform Wynwood Marketplace into the ultimate after-hours finale. The crowd enjoyed McDonald’s menu sampling moments and live performances from Yung Joc and Case, closing the weekend with electric energy and cultural resonance reflective of Miami’s nightlife and Basel’s creative pulse.
