On Night Three of Art Basel, hip-hop mogul and philanthropist Russell Simmons took in the Miami skyline from a balcony of the Mondrian hotel and talked about what has become a personal mission: promoting the arts.

Even as the economy sputters, Simmons trumpeted the power of art.

''Art and culture, it all brings you back to the center. We live in a fearful world and we are often separated from our source of happiness,'' said Simmons, who founded the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation with his two brothers, Danny and Joseph Simmons. ``Art can heal. It is one of the greatest human expressions.''

Launched in 1995, the foundation supports art programs serving urban children, emerging artist of color and under-served artists.

Simmons hosted his annual private dinner for artists, patrons, collectors and others who care about art at the Mondrian. Asian cuisine and champagne were served as guests mingled to a retro soundtrack. The dinner also celebrated the works of New York-based painter Mickalene Thomas, the foundation's 2008 Art Basel featured artist.

''This event is about reminding our supporters to keep art at the forefront. I am still committed to funding art programs, even more so in these tight times,'' Simmons said. ``We need to tell our old donors how important art is, and to bring in new donors. Art is one of the centerpieces of personal expression and we can't forget that.''

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