ART & CULTURE 2024 Edition

ARTS CULTURE

The Arts & Culture Insider for Greater Miami & Miami Beach

WELCOME

Greater Miami & Miami Beach is a best-in-class destination for arts and culture that inspires and captivates with its spirited energy and contemporary vision.

Every year in early December, Art Basel Miami Beach draws thousands of artists and collectors. All year long, the destination’s dynamic gallery scene encompasses mainstream, thoughtprovoking and emerging artists. Galleries abound in the Miami Design District, Allapattah, Little Haiti, Downtown Miami and South Beach.

In the Wynwood Arts District, a kaleidoscope of works by groundbreaking artists can be seen throughout the neighborhood and at Wynwood Walls. In Downtown Miami, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is a must-visit for its impressive collection of contemporary art of the Americas.

Miami is also a dynamic performing arts destination. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Miami hosts touring Broadway shows as well as performances by its resident companies: Miami City Ballet, Florida Grand Opera and the New World Symphony. The New World Symphony also performs at the New World Center, its cutting-edge space in South Beach designed by Frank Gehry.

Miami’s science and history museums open up new worlds for exploration. At the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Downtown Miami, you can visit the planetarium and check out the 500,000-gallon aquarium. Visit HistoryMiami to delve into our rich and vibrant past.

Explore Miami’s rich Caribbean and Latin American culture in Little Havana and Little Haiti as well as its fascinating Black history in Historic Overtown and Liberty City.

This publication was produced by:

GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

MiamiandMiamiBeach.com

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS

MiamiDadeArts.org

The Department and its 15-member volunteer advisory board, the Cultural Affairs Council, develop cultural excellence, diversity, access and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting equitable opportunities for artists and cultural organizations and the approximately 2.7 million residents and millions of annual overnight visitors who are their audiences.

ARTS CULTURE

BOARD CHAIR

Julissa Kepner

PRESIDENT & CEO

David Whitaker

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Rolando Aedo, CDME

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & TOURISM

Gisela Marti

DIRECTOR, ARTS & CULTURE

TOURISM / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

John Copeland

DIRECTOR, CONTENT & CREATIVE SERVICES

Janel Blanco

SENIOR EDITORIAL MANAGER, PUBLICATIONS

Robert Franzino

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Tito Monsante

MARKETING COORDINATOR

William Abreu

ABOUT THE FRONT COVER

Set in the heart of Downtown Miami, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is a premier cultural destination that hosts a wide range of musical, theatrical and opera productions. It is also an architectural masterpiece designed by Cesar Pelli.

CONTENTS

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ART AND FASHION MEET IN

TOP ART-CENTRIC HOTELS

BEST PLACES TO FIND MUSIC AMAZING ART GALLERIES

MIAMI ARCHITECTURE: A VIBRANT TAPESTRY OF STYLES AND

IMMERSIVE ART SPACES

GREATER MIAMI & MIAMI BEACH ARTS PASS

Scan the

Art Garage / Miami Design District

ART AND FASHION MEET IN THE MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT

By Angela Caraway-Carlton

It’s a neighborhood unlike any other. The Miami Design District is brimming with public art and lauded museums and galleries. The streets are lined with luxury fashion stores with architecture and design that mimic (and sometimes equal) the art surrounding them.

From a vibrant art scene to high-end shops with an artsy edge, you’ll find it all in this Greater Miami & Miami Beach neighborhood.

DISCOVER A VIBRANT OUTDOOR ART EXPERIENCE

Strolling the Miami Design District is like having access to a free outdoor art museum. Visitors can appreciate an array of public art by local and renowned artists.

PUBLIC SCULPTURES

You can’t miss the large-scale installations, such as the towering “Fly’s Eye Dome” by Buckminster Fuller, which also leads to a parking garage, and the largerthan-life fiberglass bust sculpture of architect “Le Corbusier” by French artist Xavier Veilhan.

Jokester 2 / Paula Crown

INTERACTIVE ART

Shoppers love to stop for photos at interactive pieces like Paula Crown’s “Jokester 2,” a 10-foot crushed red Solo cup sculpture, and Virgil Abloh’s slanted “Dollar A Gallon III” gasoline sign.

Kids can play on the colorful swing installation “Conscious Actions” by Chilean design studio gt2P. Another favorite spot is by the “Netscape” hanging chairs by Konstanin Grcic on the second floor of Palm Court, where visitors can gently swing or relax.

Le Corbusier / Xavier Veilhan

MAGNIFICENT MURALS

Eye-catching murals, many with significant meanings, also cover the walls of the Miami Design District’s buildings. Look out for Brazilian artist Criola’s vibrant mural in Jungle Plaza titled “Interdimensional Portal,” which prominently features four Black women mirroring each other. Other standout murals include John Baldessari’s cinematic mural “Fun (Part 1),” which highlights people enjoying leisure and games around a pool; the black-and-white “Vortex” mural by the 2x4 collective; and Elliot and Erick Jiménez’s “Reclining Mermaid” billboard. Even parking garages are art-centric, like the playful Museum Garage, which is adorned with different facades crafted by global designers and featuring puzzle pieces and dangling cars.

Galleries & Museums

DE LA CRUZ COLLECTION

Some of the best Miami museums are rooted in the Miami Design District. Miami art aficionados Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz house their acclaimed personal contemporary art collection at their private museum, the de la Cruz Collection. It’s free to roam the galleries, and each year they curate a new exhibit.

INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART, MIAMI

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami is also free and showcases contemporary art by local, emerging and under-recognized artists. The ever-evolving rotating exhibitions by renowned artists such as Purvis Young are worth seeing. Step into the Sculpture Garden to encounter contemporary works in a variety of mediums, including stainless steel, aluminum and even found objects.

4 Arts & Culture Insider

Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

HAITIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM

At the Haitian Heritage Museum, Haitian art, culture and heritage are celebrated with exhibits and rich programming, including artwork, music, artifacts and films.

Previous exhibits have spotlighted notable figures in Haitian history and art.

OPERA GALLERY

The Opera Gallery is a permanent gallery that houses a wide range of paintings, sculptures and photography from modern masters and contemporary artists.

Discover pieces by up-and-coming artists as well as globally acclaimed ones. Previous featured artists include Marc Chagall and Fernando Botero.

Haitian Heritage Museum

THE OFFICE

The Office is an experiential gallery where you’ll find fashion and art under one roof. Focused on modern and contemporary art, this gallery strives to make the works of emerging artists accessible to a broader audience.

DAVID CASTILLO GALLERY

The David Castillo Gallery presents contemporary artists centered on historical, cultural and personal investigations. The gallery has featured works in a variety of art fairs, including Art Basel Miami Beach and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Also, watch out for pop-up exhibitions scattered throughout the neighborhood, especially during Art Week in December.

Explore Artistic and Luxurious Design

From Chanel to Gucci and Dior, high-fashion namedropping comes easy in this neighborhood that’s dripping with luxury brands. Many of the Miami Design District’s stores – including Hermès, which features a colorful horseman sculpture perched on its roof, and Louis Vuitton Men’s, with its intricate geometric front –are uniquely designed with over-the-top facades that coordinate with the artistic neighborhood. High-end boutiques, such as Fendi, provide bright and whimsical

backdrops for Instagram-worthy photos. The two-story Alexander McQueen flagship store mirrors a piece of art with its eye-popping staircase, glass cylinders and scarves that are transformed into art on the walls. Check out the dramatic black-and-white backdrop of the whimsical alice + olivia women’s clothing store. Art and fashion also meet at the luxury accessory, leather and furniture store Chrome Hearts, which collaborates with different artists and designers for exclusive collections.

Louis Vuitton Men’s

TOP ARTCENTRIC HOTELS

By Angela Caraway-Carlton

From Art Basel

Miami Beach to artsy neighborhoods like Wynwood and the Miami Design District, Greater Miami & Miami Beach has made a name for itself in the art world.

Hotels are also placing a major focus on the arts. Many of the destination’s hotels have been designed by renowned architects and feature museum-quality works of art. From permanent art installations to rotating exhibits and from on-site art galleries to outstanding music offerings, these top art-centric hotels offer culturally enriching places to stay on vacation.

ARLO WYNWOOD

Arlo Wynwood was the first hotel to open in Wynwood, and like its creative surroundings, art is at the hotel’s heart. Guests are treated to more than 250 pieces of art, including commissioned and original pieces from local and global artists.

Look for murals splashing the exterior, planters and stairwells as well as the elevators, where you’ll find trippy mandala designs by Brooke Einbender that play tricks on your eyes as the elevator doors open and close. The hotel also places art enthusiasts within walking distance of Wynwood’s many murals and art galleries.

FAENA HOTEL MIAMI BEACH

For a fantasy-driven dive into the arts in Miami Beach, it doesn’t get more epic than Faena Hotel Miami Beach, developed by Argentine real estate developer Alan Faena. The most recognizable artwork on the whimsical property is Damien Hirst’s “Gone But Not Forgotten,” a gilded skeleton of a woolly mammoth majestically displayed in a glass box in the garden.

For more of Hirst’s work, dine at the modern-Asian restaurant Pao by Paul Qui to stare at a towering, golden unicorn sculpture, “Golden Myth,” situated in the middle of the restaurant. Wander into the Living Room lounge to see two grand chandeliers, “Storms,” by Alberto Garutti; they flicker every time lightning strikes a particular area of the Pampas region in Argentina.

For an interactive experience, book an evening at Faena Theater for performances that range from sultry cabaret shows to big-name concerts. The Faena Art Project Room hosts exhibitions throughout the year.

THE BETSY – SOUTH BEACH

For a fantasy-driven dive into the arts in Miami Beach, The Betsy – South Beach, a boutique beachside oasis on Ocean Drive in South Beach, offers a strong calendar of art and cultural events for guests and locals. Cozy up in the lobby for free nightly jazz performances or ask for a tour to learn more about the rotating exhibits of visual arts and photography throughout the hotel, which boasts the Writer’s Room, a working studio space for visiting writers and artists.

The Betsy also has art installed in three of its elevators – one dedicated to literature and two celebrating the photography of Andy Sweet. Peek into the restored alleyway to see “The Betsy Orb,” a large, egg-shaped structure that exquisitely connects two historic properties. And don’t miss “The Betsy Poetry Rail,” an installation of poetry by 13 poets, such as Langston Hughes, Donald Justice and Muhammad Ali, whose words have shaped Miami culture. The Betsy sponsors a city-wide jazz program in April called the Overture to Overtown Jazz Festival and curates a concert series in Lummus Park that’s presented by the Ocean Drive Association.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

The Betsy Orb

SAGAMORE SOUTH BEACH

Known as The Art Hotel, Sagamore South Beach has a long-standing reputation for its dedication to the arts. It’s one of the few hotels in the world with a year-round art program that changes every season.

Past exhibits have included an extensive mix of art, from greats like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein to Miami-based artists. The hotel hosts art talks and offers the unique opportunity to meet artists. All artwork is on view 24/7 and free to the public.

There is a newly renovated sculpture garden that showcased award-winning Australian and British artists Gillie and Marc for its inaugural exhibit. Another new addition is the Sagamore Walls. This mural space gives artists an opportunity to contribute large-scale pieces that debut during Miami Art Week and remain on the wall throughout the year. The Sagamore’s dynamic cultural programming ranges from concerts to lectures.

LOEWS MIAMI BEACH HOTEL

At Loews Miami Beach Hotel, a hotel tower was designed as an homage to Art Deco with a stunning cupola that’s synonymous with South Beach. A $50 million revamp included adding a curated collection of permanent art pieces that ranges from murals to sculptures and even designer headboards in rooms. The works of Sarah Raskey, a Chicago-based visual artist, are woven throughout the hotel. The first thing guests will notice is Raskey’s sparkling art piece behind the reception desk called “Stardust,” comprised of minerals, precious stones, crystals, geodes and more. It’s like a fabulous piece of earthy jewelry on the wall.

You’ll also find Raskey’s work in the artfully designed carpeting in hallways and in murals and on headboards in guest rooms, which are aptly called “Halo.”

For gallery-like collections, head to the second- and thirdfloor meeting spaces for more than 40 pieces of multimedia works showcasing many local artists. If music is your art of choice, spend an evening at Bar Collins, the lobby restaurant and lounge, for live music every weekend. Expect a rotating mix of local musicians and DJs.

THE SETAI MIAMI BEACH

Luxury and art go hand-in-hand at The Setai Miami Beach, a Zen hotel rich in architectural history. This sleek South Beach hotel is housed in a restored 1936 landmark building designed by renowned architect Henry Hohauser. Guests will be wowed by original paintings by Shanghaibased artist Christian de Laubadère, who paints on paper and canvas using lead pencils, smoke and charcoal, as well as printed and embroidered fabric from China and France. Additionally, each room features a piece by de Laubadère. The lobby also features art by Korean artist Lee Jung Woong, who uses Chinese ink and oil paint on Korean paper. The hotel puts an emphasis on the art of music at Jaya restaurant’s elaborate Sunday Jazz Brunch.

Bar Collins / Loews Miami Beach Hotel

The Setai Miami Beach

W SOUTH BEACH

The modern stunner W South Beach is home to more than fine dining and newly renovated guest rooms. The hotel also houses a multimillion-dollar contemporary art collection with pieces by iconic artists like Damien Hirst, Taryn Simon and others. As part of the hotel’s robust programming, guests can enjoy a private tour of the extensive collection with its W Insider, a dedicated concierge available for each guest. W South Beach’s support for the local arts also extends across the street to The Bass, Miami Beach’s contemporary art museum.

Thanks to an exclusive partnership, hotel guests can experience complimentary VIP access to Creativity Center programs for all ages, exhibition openings, guided tours and more.

INTERCONTINENTAL MIAMI

Guests at the InterContinental Miami in Downtown Miami can view impressive works of art from emerging and established artists thanks to its Noche de Arte program, a happy hour event that takes place in the hotel’s lobby every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. The hotel teams with the local nonprofit collaboARTive, which vets each artist for the artist in residency program, which rotates monthly. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau funds the program, providing artists with a small stipend to further support the arts in the destination.

CITIZEN M MIAMI BRICKELL

Newcomer citizenM Miami Brickell hotel has already made a name for itself for its tech-driven guest rooms and plentiful social spaces, filled with contemporary furniture, that are havens for mingling and working. The building’s façade is a showstopper, showcasing a massive mural comprised of five vibrant pieces by Miami artist Jen Stark. The hotel is also dotted with a world-class art collection featuring artists who created works inspired by their love of Miami.

HAMPTON INN & SUITES BY HILTON MIAMI BRICKELL/DOWNTOWN

Also in the heart of Brickell’s Financial District, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Brickell/Downtown will surprise guests with its exquisite collection of original art by 12 different artists and a small art gallery on the ground level. View one of Jeffrey Zachmann’s one-of-a-kind sculptural machines, a towering flower sculpture by Emilio Robba and thought-provoking paintings by Gregory Scott and Deborah Starbuck. Roam the sixth floor to gaze at Art Deco photographs, and make a stop at the elevator landing areas on each floor, where inspiring murals make a statement.

KIMPTON EPIC HOTEL

In Downtown Miami, Kimpton EPIC Hotel not only has a stunning view that many would consider a work of art; it also has a robust art program, EPIC Art. This artist in residency program was created in 2021 to feature local artists and introduce guests to the Miami art scene. Explore the gallery on the 16th floor to see a rotating curation of works by local artists across a wide variety of mediums.

W South Beach

CitizenM Miami Brickell

Kimpton EPIC Hotel

InterContinental Miami

BEST PLACES TO FIND MUSIC

By Matthew Meltzer

Live music is always easy to find in Greater Miami

&

Miami Beach, and you might even hear salsa, reggaeton or bachata when you’re just walking down the street.

Theaters, performance halls and arenas throughout the area host everything from classical music to world-famous pop stars. Miami has a number of organizations devoted to live music, including symphony orchestras and a Grammy-nominated

vocal group. So, if you’re looking to hear some of Miami’s best musicians live, here are the top places to go.

NEW WORLD CENTER

The state-of-the-art New World Center in South Beach isn’t just a place to watch one of the most exciting young symphony orchestras in the world. The concert hall is a leader in innovative new ways to introduce audiences to classical music, including late-night performances with live DJs and frequent parties. On select weekends, the New World Center also hosts WALLCAST® concerts, where the evening’s performance is broadcast on the building’s 7,000-square-foot exterior wall and people watch from picnic blankets in SoundScape Park.

ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Downtown Miami is Miami’s crown jewel for performing arts. In addition to its resident companies, the Arsht Center also hosts touring Broadway shows in the Ziff Ballet Opera House as well as frequent concerts by artists from across the world. The John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall is an acoustic gem where big-name touring acts play in a more intimate space. Live on the Plaza features performances by an all-local lineup of artists, with cabaret-style seating on the outdoor Thomson Plaza for the Arts.

John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall / Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

THE DENNIS C. MOSS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

The Moss Center can’t be beat for an evening of expertly curated concerts and musical performances. Dedicated to multi-disciplinary cultural arts, the center stages everything from opera to film, musicals, bands, dance and stand-up comedy, while also acting as a community gathering place with education and outreach at the core of its mission.

THE MIAMI BEACH BANDSHELL

The Miami Beach Bandshell is an iconic venue that has it all – from its stunning oceanfront location to its vibrant and lively atmosphere. With amazing performances from acts curated by the Rhythm Foundation, the venue features electrifying energy with state-of-the-art sound and lighting installations. It truly is a must-visit destination for music lovers and anyone looking to have an unforgettable experience in Miami Beach.

JAMES L. KNIGHT CENTER

Tucked inside Downtown Miami’s Hyatt Regency Miami, the James L. Knight Center has been hosting live music since 1982. The theater is ideal for smaller acts and niche genre music festivals, from throwback R&B concerts to Caribbean showcases. The Knight Center feels more like a large auditorium than an arena, providing a closer vantage point to catch artists that often play much larger stages.

KASEYA CENTER

Best known as home to the NBA’s Miami HEAT, Downtown Miami’s Kaseya Center also hosts some of the biggest names in popular music when they make their way through town. Everyone from Britney Spears to Bad Bunny has headlined the Kaseya Center stage. And with a location conveniently set a block from the Freedom Tower Metromover station, it’s an easy venue to catch a show without stressing about traffic or parking.

THE FILLMORE MIAMI BEACH AT THE JACKIE GLEASON THEATER

This South Beach icon got its name from its role as the filming locale for “The Jackie Gleason Show, “ which broadcast from the Art Deco gem during its run in the 1960s. Today, The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater is one of the most unique music venues in the nation, a perfectly preserved remnant from Miami Beach’s Rat Pack era that’s hosted awards shows, stand-up comedy festivals and world-famous musicians. You’ll also find the odd electronic music act coming through. Seats can be removed from the theater’s main floor to turn it into a pulsating dance club.

FPL SOLAR AMPHITHEATER

AT BAYFRONT PARK

Set right on Biscayne Bay in Bayfront Park, just south of the Kaseya Center, you’ll find the FPL Solar Amphitheater, one of the most picturesque outdoor music venues in the United States. Artists perform against the backdrop of Downtown Miami’s colorful skyline, while concertgoers look out at the cruise ships at PortMiami and the glistening bay. It’s a popular spot for electronic music acts to play night performances with mesmerizing light shows, hosting groups like Rüfüs du Sol and headliners from the Ultra Music Festival. The amphitheater is also a favorite among touring indie bands who opt for its balmy outdoor environs over smaller indoor clubs.

FROST SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Looking to discover the next generation of great musical talent? Look no further than the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, which has produced music legends including Bruce Hornsby, Ben Folds and Jon Secada. Performances from jazz ensembles, chamber music groups and everything in between are typically held at the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall on the Coral Gables campus and at the school’s gleaming new concert hall at the Knight Center for Music Innovation.

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

The New World Symphony straddles the line between student orchestra and professional company. It’s a group

Live Music Organizations

of highly talented young musicians granted fellowships to hone their craft. The symphony plays at the New World Center in Miami Beach, one of the most technologically advanced concert halls in America, and blends classical style with modern touches, sometimes including singers and DJs in its shows.

FLORIDA GRAND OPERA

Opera lovers need look no further than the Ziff Ballet Opera House stage at the Arsht Center, which Florida Grand Opera calls home from November to April. Highlights have included “I Pagliacci,” the tale of the tragic clown, and “La Boheme,” the opera that inspired “Rent.” The company also does periodic SongFest concerts, bringing classical opera selections to local churches and community centers.

CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA

Miami certainly has its share of seasonal residents, but only one of them is a world-renowned symphony

orchestra. Winter’s most welcomed snowbird is the Cleveland Orchestra, which plays a series of shows at Downtown Miami’s Arsht Center when the weather in Ohio turns cold.

SERAPHIC FIRE

Best known for its rousing Christmas performances, Seraphic Fire has been Miami’s pre-eminent vocal performance group since its founding in 2002. Its awe-inspiring shows range far beyond the holidays, with themed concerts focusing on different composers and styles.

The Grammy-nominated group is almost as lauded for its youth programs as for its performances. It launched the Miami Choral Academy in 2009, which evolved into the Seraphic Fire Youth Initiative in 2016.

ORCHESTRA MIAMI

No musical organization intertwines itself with Greater Miami & Miami Beach and its residents quite like Orchestra Miami. Its signature event is Beethoven on the Beach, a free performance that has proven so popular it now includes shows at Pinecrest Gardens and Gateway Park in Sunny Isles Beach in addition to the original at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Orchestra Miami’s goal of accessibility for everyone leads it all over Miami, offering family-friendly presentations everywhere from Zoo Miami in South Dade to Downtown Miami’s First United Methodist Church.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Miami Symphony Orchestra is the City of Miami’s official professional symphony, playing classical and chamber music for over 35 seasons. Most performances are in the acoustically spectacular Knight Concert Hall at the Adrienne Arsht Center, but you can also find the 90-piece orchestra at Peacock Park in Coconut Grove and Downtown Doral Park and enjoy chamber music shows at its Miami Design District home base.

THE CHOPIN FOUNDATION OF THE UNITED STATES

The Chopin Foundation of the United States was founded in 1977 to help support promising young musical talent through scholarships and public performance opportunities. Every five years it holds the National Chopin Piano Competition, where young pianists compete to advance to the international competition in Warsaw, Poland. The foundation also produces an annual Chopin for All concert series, which showcases promising pianists at venues throughout the area.

DRANOFF 2 PIANO FOUNDATION

The highly respected 2 piano musical form features repertoires ranging from jazz to Latin and classical. Miami’s Dranoff 2 Piano Foundation is one of the world’s largest promoters of 2 piano, bringing the format to Miami-Dade schools through its annual Piano Slam. It also offers a full series of live concerts, such as Opera Meets Jazz, West African Beats and Cuba 2024.

MIAMI

AMAZING ART GALLERIES

By Angela Caraway-Carlton

In addition to the annual Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week, Miami’s art scene is a year-round destination for arts and culture.

While you may know Wynwood as the epicenter of street art and galleries, new areas like Little Haiti continue to emerge while areas such as Downtown Miami and South Beach continue to evolve.

Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking, mainstream or emerging artists, here’s your guide to seven of Miami’s amazing art galleries and venues.

ARTECHOUSE

This is not your typical stand-andstare gallery where you’re warned not to touch any of the art. Here, guests can expect a one-of-a-kind immersive experience where you’re encouraged to touch and interact with the digital art. Expect technology-driven, museumquality pieces by artists who are forerunners of the new age in arts and technology, like award-winning Turkish-born artist Refik Anadol.

736 Collins Ave., Miami Beach

AVANT GALLERY

With locations in Brickell City Centre and Aventura Mall, this gallery is packed with an always-rotating range of contemporary art, such as paintings, photography and playful sculptures by emerging and mid-career artists, along with furniture and accessories.

701 S. Miami Ave., Suite 177C, Level 1, Miami 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Level 1, Aventura

Avant Gallery

FREDRIC SNITZER GALLERY

If you’re into contemporary art, this longtime gallery will not disappoint, especially since it’s curated by a knowledgeable art dealer who’s served on the committee board of Art Basel Miami Beach since its inception. Roam the sprawling indoor exhibition space that’s divided into two galleries along with an outdoor sculpture garden in Downtown Miami’s Arts & Entertainment District.

Guests will discover pretty much every type of media from paintings to sculpture and photography by a diverse range of contemporary artists, with a strong presence of avant-garde Cuban artists. Expect at least eight rotating exhibitions by its artists each year.

1540 NE Miami Court, Miami

LOCUST PROJECTS

Locust Projects is another one of Miami’s art frontrunners, originally hatched in Wynwood by three artists. This alternative art incubator is now located in the Little River area near Little Haiti.

The non-profit offers approachable, yet engaging site-specific exhibitions from local, national and international artists.

One of the most fun events is the annual Smash & Grab fundraiser where everyone who buys a raffle ticket gets to pick and leave with a donated work of art.

297 NE 67th St., Miami

While this art gallery’s roots were in Wynwood (where it was known as Gallery Diet), founder Nina Johnson has now planted her contemporary gem in Little Haiti. Johnson, who is a passionate advocate for culture, meticulously curates exhibitions featuring emerging and dynamic local artists as well as established artists from around the globe.

You’ll discover everything from ambitious photography to design and sculpture work.

6315 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Katie

Locust Projects

Fredric Snitzer Gallery

NINA JOHNSON

OOLITE ARTS

This cultural center and studio space has been on the scene for decades and has been rebranded from ArtCenter/South Florida to its new name, Oolite Arts (named after the coral and seashell bedrock on which Miami stands). The gallery will soon move to new digs in the Little River area. Oolite Arts also opened a satellite space near the upcoming campus, where it’s already immersing itself in the community. For now, the Lincoln Road mainstay offers exhibits that rotate every three months and the space hosts more than a dozen artists in residence. The public can peruse the venue for free, and if their doors are open, chat with the live-in artists about their work.

924 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach / 7297 NW 2nd Ave., Miami

SPINELLO PROJECTS

As one of the destination’s top contemporary art venues, founded by Anthony Spinello in 2005, this often-nomadic gallery has settled into a new location in the Allapattah neighborhood. Spinello has an eye for art, and visitors will always find a hub of local and international talent, with new works by the likes of Eddie Arroyo and Raheleh Filsoofi. The venue’s thought-provoking pieces often address current issues.

2930 NW 7th Ave., Miami

Seven Seas / Agustina Woodgate

AUTHENTICALLY MIAMI.

Photo © Christian Lockerman, The Warhol Creative.

MIAMI ARCHITECTURE: A VIBRANT TAPESTRY OF STYLES AND INFLUENCES

By Cheryl Jacobs, Executive Vice President, Miami Center for Architecture & Design, in partnership with Art Circuits

Miami is a metropolis renowned for its diverse cultural influences, stunning beaches and exciting dining scene.

Yet, beyond its vibrant culture and glamorous reputation lies a rich architectural landscape that reflects the destination’s unique history, climate and multicultural character. Let’s delve into the world of Miami architecture and explore its evolution, key architectural styles and iconic landmarks that define our urban paradise.

ART DECO

Miami Beach, in particular, boasts one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the world. These pastel-hued, streamlined structures, predominantly built in the 1930s and 1940s, exhibit the elegance and optimism of the era.

Ocean Drive, with its neon signs and iconic facades, perfectly captures the essence of our community’s Art Deco District, which, by the way, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

TROPICAL MODERNISM

Miami’s climate has played a significant role in shaping its architectural identity.

Tropical Modernism emerged as a response to the hot, humid weather. Characterized by open floor plans, large windows and natural materials like wood and stone, architects like Alfred Browning Parker and Rufus Nims pioneered this style in the mid-20th century.

MIMO

Short for Miami Modernism architecture, MiMo is a post-war style that blends elements of Modernism with a Miami twist.

Look no further than the Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel to see an excellent example of MiMo’s use of curves, abstract shapes and vivid colors.

One Thousand Museum Building / Zaha Hadid Architects

The Charles Roman Residence / Rufus Nims

CUBAN INFLUENCE

Miami’s Cuban community has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape. The energetic neighborhood of Little Havana, for example, is a mosaic of colorful buildings, painted murals and a lively street culture reminiscent of Old Havana itself.

CONTEMPORARY & HIGH TECH

As Miami has grown into a global business hub, contemporary architecture has taken hold. Downtown Miami’s skyline is punctuated by sleek glass skyscrapers, such as the iconic One Thousand Museum designed by Zaha Hadid, which stands as a symbol of Miami’s aspirations.

ICONIC LANDMARKS

The Freedom Tower: Originally the headquarters of the Miami News & Metropolis, this historic building served as the “Ellis Island of the South.” It was the processing center for Cuban exiles fleeing Fidel Castro’s regime, and today it stands as a symbol of freedom and Cuban heritage. It is now home to Miami Dade College’s Museum of Art and Design. The tower and museum are currently closed as the building undergoes structural renovations.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: This Italian Renaissance-style villa, built in the early 20th century, is surrounded by lush gardens and offers a glimpse into Miami’s past. Vizcaya’s opulence and beauty make it a must visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM):

Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, PAMM is a contemporary architectural gem overlooking Biscayne Bay. Its hanging gardens, concrete structure and impressive use of natural light make it a prime example of modern Miami architecture.

Miami Beach lifeguard tower

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Art Deco architecture

Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami:

Designed by Charles Gwathmey and opened in 1996, MOCA is celebrated for innovative curatorial and research-driven exhibitions that are highlighted by educational programs for all ages. As a home for cultural expressions and exchanges, MOCA prides itself as a center for cross-cultural understanding and inclusion, connecting diverse communities through the arts.

Miami’s architectural diversity is a reflection of its vibrant and multicultural identity.

From the pastel Art Deco beauties of South Beach to Downtown Miami’s sleek contemporary skyscrapers, Miami’s architectural landscape is as diverse as its population. It is a destination where the past, present and future co-exist, creating a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts and a testament to our unique spirit. As Miami continues to evolve, its architecture will undoubtedly continue to tell the captivating story of this incredible destination.

The Miami Center for Architecture & Design (MCAD), the place for everyone interested in architecture

and the built environment, along with MCAD’s sister organization, the Miami Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, has a mission to educate the public and enhance appreciation for architecture and design.

To that end, MCAD is welcoming Open House Miami on March 1 & 2, 2024. This architecture festival is part of a network of 60 non-profits around the world, from New York to Seoul, Buenos Aires to Maputo and San Diego to Miami.

Each organization is dedicated to making cities more open, accessible, and equitable. The network now spans 52 festivals, 29 countries and six continents. Miami will be only the fourth city in the U.S. to host Open House.

Visit openhousemia.org for more information.

Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

IMMERSIVE ART SPACES

By Michelle F. Solomon / ArtBurstMiami.com

We’re not just content to see art or listen to music. Here in Greater Miami & Miami Beach we need to be completely immersed, and there are plenty of opportunities to dive right in.

SUPERBLUE

There’s plenty to get surrounded in at Superblue, housed in a 50,000-square-foot industrial building in the Allapattah neighborhood, so plan to spend more than a few hours to take advantage of the entire experience. Visitors can wind their way through a mirrored labyrinth by Es Devlin and the latest interactive work by

artist JR created for Superblue, “The Machine Behind the Art: Inside JR’s Printing Press.” Art collective teamLab’s “Between Life and NonLife” is the biggest piece to explore. It’s a suite of interconnected artworks, including an installation that surrounds visitors in digital water particles. Not included with regular admission, but worth the extra price, is teamLab’s “Massless Clouds

Between Sculpture and Life.” Bubbles pour out of chutes overhead and from pillars perforated with holes to create floating sculptures where visitors use their bodies to break them and then watch the wispy forms come together all over again. It’s your choice if you want to be fully immersed or use one of the ponchos that are provided to keep you dry.

ARTECHOUSE

Artechouse in Miami Beach blends art and technology, hence its name. Unlike at traditional museums, visitors are encouraged to touch and interact with the art. Check out Zach Lieberman’s “Future Sketches/Code Poems,” which explores how technology can transform the human body, voice and gestures. One of the immersive experiences, the “Expression Mirror,” allows you to see your own emotions through those of other people. Exhibitions change and evolve, so it’s best to check the website to see what’s on. Before arriving, download the free ARTECHOUSE XR app to activate hidden, virtual art while at the museum.

PARADOX MUSEUM

Wait a minute. How did they do that? That’s the point of the Paradox Museum, a 90-minute mind boggle of interactive exhibits. Paradox’s first United States location, in the heart of Miami’s art-centric Wynwood neighborhood, aims for an experience that turns everything on its head – sometimes literally, i.e. posing “upside down” on a replica of one of Miami Beach’s famous lifeguard stands. This place is made for Instagrammable moments – multiple versions of yourself seated together on a table full of mirrors, or split in two on the Paradox Sofa. Another fan favorite is the Ames Room – named after ophthalmologist Adelbert Ames Jr., who created the concept – where people appear smaller or larger depending on where they’re standing. There’s no shortage of illusions to try out here, with 70 in all.

There are planetariums, and then there’s the planetarium at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Downtown Miami. That feeling of immersive exhilaration as you weave through a coral reef or a strand of DNA is a combination of high tech and mind trick. The planetarium dome is tilted forward at 23.5 degrees so that its 67-foot span fills your field of vision.

Imagery is coming at you from all sides – above, below and on the peripheral edges – creating a nearly 360-degree view of whatever world you’re in. Also, new at Frost Science is nightLAB, a quarterly event series on some Thursdays exclusively for adults, each with its own theme, activations and a special Frost Planetarium experience.

WALLCAST® AND WINDOWCAST

Immerse yourself in music without even entering the concert hall. The New World Center has its gigantic WALLCAST® and now the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music has Windowcast. The Windowcasts are live concerts shown in high-definition audio and video from a 20x40 foot window on the plaza of the Knight Center for Music Innovation in Coral Gables. At New World Center’s SoundScape Park in Miami Beach,

live symphony performances are broadcast on a 7,000-square-foot projection wall. New World Center also lends its WALLCAST® for other outdoor free events, including the City of Miami Beach’s SoundScape Cinema Series from October through May, showing a selection of movies on the big screen.

ArtBurstMiami.com is a nonprofit media source for the arts featuring fresh and original stories by writers dedicated to theater, dance, visual arts, film, music and more. / Photos courtesy of Artburst.