Photo credit Carianne Older @carianneolder. 

Vita Kari is a non-binary artist renowned for their immersive performance work involving illusion, with millions of followers online. A graduate of the MFA program at Otis College of Art and Design, Kari’s art addresses contemporary issues of digital identity and commercialism via works live and on video, showcasing in Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami. 

Vita is a visual artist taking over TikTok’s FYP (over 900 million views), revolutionizing the way we perceive creativity in the digital era. Outside of Art Basel, Kari will also debut a new public performance piece titled “Close the Door.”

This performance builds on their previous work “Trapped in a Can,” which was featured by Artnet last year, extending their critique of accessibility and public space.

In “Close the Door,” Kari tackles the critical issue of inaccessible public restrooms in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. As a visual commentary on the lack of infrastructure, Kari will create dollhouse-sized miniature restrooms inspired by the classic Spanish-tiled public restrooms of 1920s Los Angeles. While these tiny restrooms will be non-functional, they represent a symbolic call to action—highlighting the need for real, accessible public facilities.

The performance will see Kari “trapped” inside a small-scale, dollhouse-like restroom, engaging audiences with participatory and interactive elements. The installation calls attention to the often-overlooked barriers in city planning and infrastructure, pushing viewers to reflect on the daily struggles many people face when denied access to basic needs.

Kari’s solo exhibitions include “Escape to Vitawood” at ULO World, and they have participated in various group exhibitions. Their work has been featured in publications such as Forbes, Artnet, Interview Magazine, Gay Times, and Jezebel. Kari has collaborated with brands like Marc Jacobs, Loewe, Levi’s, Warby Parker, PUMA, Savage x Fenty by Rihanna, Bratz, and Adult Swim. Additionally, they have delivered artist talks, including a recent engagement at UCLA and Conde Nast College of London.