Photographs of Live Mural Match Up at Spectrum Miami Art Show on 12/4/14

Life Is Art and Yo Miami Live Mural Match Up at Spectrum Miami Art Show on Thursday, December 4, 2014.  The participating artists match ups: TeePop and Jay Bellicchi (aka REMOTE), Ruben Ubiera and Eleazar Delgado, Monique Lassooij and Daniel Fila (aka Krave).   Music Curated by: DJ Hank Justice.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Pictures of Casa Elyx Art Basel Party

The newly opened Miami Beach EDITION hotel by Ian Schrager is your sequel to the Delano Miami Beach. It’s no wonder why Viet N’Guyen chose this location for a private pop-up club to showcase Absolut Elyx.

Casa Elyx, a pop-up party in the penthouse of The EDITION, featured cocktails by John Lermayer that were served in a heavy copper pineapple, a swimming pool, ocean views, live music and a hidden speakeasy.

Jonas Tahlin, Chief Executive Officer for Absolut Elyx was present to greet guests and answer questions about the luxury vodka. The Miami Beach EDITION Hotel will surely be the new hangout for South Florida travelers and Casa Elyx did an amazing job hosting vacationers and locals by providing an relaxing escape from the Art Basel frenzy.

Pictures of the VH1 Scope Party

VH1 + SCOPE collaborated for the third time this year to once again present its fused platform of art and music. The VIP only private event featured live performances by platinum, award-winning, Danish singer-songwriter NABIHA and American hip-hop recording artist and producer, Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean.

Guests also experienced an immersive art installation by the artist and calligrapher, Aerosyn-Lex Mestrovic. Mestrovic exhibited his hand-painted art work onto hundreds of feet of Japanese synthetic paper, which positioned the installation as the longest continuous painting shown at this year’s Art Basel event.

Photographs Courtesy of Hedonist Shedonist

 

 

 

 

Photographs of Art Basel Week Monday 12/1/14

Art Basel Week on Monday, December 1, 2014. Spent most of the day setting up our Life Is Art booth at Spectrum Miami. Started at Ping Pong kickoff at the Alfrd I. Dupont Building with very interesting cutting edge work. Popped right across the street to the White Building for Michele Fontaniere Pop Up Gallery honoring the Foundation Of The Americas 21st Anniversary Celebration. Next stop was the Design District for Miami Magazine Celebrate Art Week Miami with LEBO. Stopped in for the Spinello opening of The Magic of Kris Knight. Next on the list was something completely different with the Pop-Up Street Art Exhibition to Celebrate Miami Marine Stadium, an international gathering of some of the most amazing street artists. Lastly, we finally made it to the private exhibition opening of ARTECHO. TECHO is a fabulous, youth-led non-profit that fights homelessness and poverty in Latin America.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs from Care Resource 30th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee VIP White Party at Perez Art Museum Miami on 11/29/14

Care Resource 30th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee VIP White Party at Perez Art Museum Miami on Saturday, November 29, 2014.

Care Resource Mission:  “Through education, prevention, research, care and treatment and support services, Care Resource improves upon the health and overall quality of life of our diverse South Florida communities in need.”
{Please feel free to download and share.}

Love & Wine, a Rooftop Wine & Spirits, Gastronomic Affair

Saturday night, my wife and I attended Love & Wine, a Rooftop Wine & Spirits, Gastronomic Affair on the roof of The Collection Building in Coral Gables. The event paired awesome local chefs and restaurants with some premium wines and spirits. Live music, cigars, awesome cars, models and a beautiful view also made for a nice night. Not even the mega wind could put a damper on the fun.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

 

 

Photographs of Key Biscayne Wine and Food Fest by Mr Q 305

The Rotary Club of Key Biscayne Foundation hosted the 10th Annual Rotary Club Key Biscayne Wine and Food Fest.
The primary beneficiaries included the ARC of South Florida and the Fundacion Manos del Sur. Founded in 1953 by a group of concerned parents, the ARC, South Florida serves the over 60,000 Miami-Dade County citizens with  developmental disabilities. Fundacion Manos del Sur is a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to underprivileged children in Latin America in the areas of education, health and nutrition.
This year’s event was again themed after “New World vs. Old World. Wines from some of the top wine producing regions in the world competed to earn coveted awards for “Best Varietal”, “Best in Show-White Wine” and “Best in Show-Red Wine”. Please scroll to the last image to see the winner’s board. 

Guess also savored delicacies prepared by 14 participating restaurants from the Key Biscayne and general Miami area.
In collaboration with the ARC of South Florida a silent auction took place during the tasting. Auction lots consisted of more than 100 items, which included travel, restaurant, sports memorabilia and other goods and services, with an estimated market value of more than $40,000.

 

Photographs of The Miami Foundation Give Miami Day on 11/20/14

The Miami Foundation Give Miami Day event at the Marlin Park on Thursday, November 20, 2104.

“Give Miami Day is an initiative of The Miami Foundation that furthers our mission of increasing local philanthropy and providing community engagement opportunities for every Miamian.  Established in 1967, The Miami Foundation has helped hundreds of people create powerful legacies by establishing custom, charitable Funds.  We inform our grantmaking using the civic issues and solutions explored the Our Miami Report.  To learn more about the various ways we can assist you, your family or your business with philanthropic giving and advancing civic change, visit miamifoundation.org and ourmiami.org.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of SMCSF – 2nd Bi-Annual Speed Marketing Roundtables at R House on 11/19/14

SMCSF – 2nd Bi-Annual Speed Marketing Roundtables at R House on Thursday, November 19, 2014.

This  event combines the executive roundtable with speed networking for a dynamic and fast-paced conversation. Each roundtable discussion was lead by the following:

Visual Communication: David Verjano
Social Media Content: Christine de la Huerta
LinkedIn: Andrea Catsicas
Data-Driven Social Media Strategies: Nate C. Mendenhall
Advocacy & Social Media: Gabriela Guzman
Kick Start Your Freelancing: James Echols and Karl Nybergh
Boost Your Events: Aubrey Swanson
Social Media Crisis Management: Jonathan Brownfield
Hispanic Marketing: Adriana Serna
Mission-Based / Cause Marketing: Alexandra Figueredo

Each roundtable rotated every 20 minutes, giving you the opportunity to participate in 4 topics of your choice throughout the meetup.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Pictures of Hardwell Concert in Miami

Photo credit: Pedro Alvarez of Hedonist Shedonist

The most popular DJ in the world tore up the stage in Miami in front of thousands of screaming and fawning fans.  Hardwell has been the world’s #1 DJ according to DJ Magazine‘s Top 100 DJs poll in both 2014 and 2013 and he proved it on stage. He was at Bayfront Park for his I am Hardwell Tour and put on a phenomenal show with enchanting and hypnotic lights and a sound system that blew people away. Beautiful people in amazing costumes were on full display dancing all night.Enjoy the pictures of the Hardwell concert and the attendees below.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Photographs of Bird Road Art Walk on 11/15/14

Bird Road Art Walk on Saturday, November 15, 2014.  What a great wonderful art walk, this art walk is mostly artist studios, so you get to meet the artist, ask them questions and get to see the space where they create their art.   Click here for a list of the participating Bird Road Art District Studios and see you all next month

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Mad Hatter Arts Festival 2014 at The Barnacle Historic State Park on 11/15/14

Mad Hatter Arts Festival 2014 at The Barnacle Historic State Park on Saturday, November 15, 2014.

Art Show: The Mad Hatter Arts Festival is a fun, zany art and music festival, held each autumn in the historic village of Coconut Grove, located on lovely Biscayne Bay. “The Grove” has a deep Bohemian history of quirky artists and musicians. In fact, the name of the festival draws its inspiration from a popular 1970s song Coconut Grove written by John Sebastian of the internationally famous group, the Lovin’ Spoonful.

The two-day event celebrates its tenth year on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16, with artists exhibiting on the grounds of The Barnacle Historic State Park and on the sidewalks along Main Highway. Other components of the Festival can be seen around the Grove. Bring your friends, bring your family, and join the fun “…in Coconut Grove.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Art of Transformation VIP Reception at Opa-Locka Art and Recreation Center on 11/14/14

Art of Transformation VIP Reception at Opa-Locka Art and Recreation Center on Friday, November 14, 2014.
THE ART OF TRANSFORMATION SERIES: “ Powered by the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation (OLCDC), The Art of Transformation is an annual celebration of the rebirth of Opa-locka, Fla., Originally an inaugural, single evening in 2011 and the 2nd Annual in 2012 to honor Opa-locka’s historic past, celebrate its present, and envision its bright future, the Art of Transformation has “transformed” itself and evolved into one month of exciting multi-disciplinary artistic events around Miami-Dade County. Curated by Tumelo Mosaka, the 2014 series highlights how art is capable of encouraging urban and civic renewal.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Grovetoberfest 2014 Photographs and Recap

The epic Grovetoberfest, the “most scenic beer festival in the world”, returned for the fourth time to Coconut Grove and served over 300 great beers from across the world.  Over 7,000 beer enthusiasts showed up to pound some brewskis, eat some food, dance, smile and laugh. Grovetoberfest is all about the craft beer and has a strong focus on the local craft beer scene. Some of Miami’s top chefs like Chef Todd Haven and Chef Giorgio Rapacavoli rocked the Kitchen Lab, where they demonstrated gourmet cooking with craft beer. Beer Tasting 101 was hosted by FIU’s Beer Academy and taught newbies the basics of craft beer tasting. People were also dancing to the live music all day long. Grovetoberfest is always a blast and if you missed it we feel sorry for you. Fear not though, because Sprung Beer Festival  is right around the corner in March!

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Seed Wine and Food Festival Photographs and Recap

Miami pushed aside its addiction to Cuban food to exuberantly welcome the first annual Seed Food & Wine Festival.  It was a five day Vegan immersion focusing on healthy and delicious plant-based foods. The festival itself was held for one day in a giant tent, normally reserved for Art Basel shows. The tent was packed with vendors and attendees. The fest was glorious with scrumptious food, sweets, ice cream, juices, sauces, books, education, celebrities and beautiful people. The energy at the event was so amazing and we were thrilled to be a part of it. We can not wait for the second annual Seed Fest.

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

Photographs of Tiger Direct Tech Bash 2014 at Marlins Park on 11/7/14

Tiger Direct Tech Bash 2014 at Marlins Park on Friday, November 7, 2014.

“The TigerDirect Tech Bash aims to reach a young professional consumer and business executive audience. This end-user facing, pre-holiday showcase will include the top premier brands in the consumer electronics industry, local tech start-ups, and the Miami business community.”

HISTORY

“In November 2012, the inaugural Tech Bash was held to celebrate the launch of Windows 8 and the new OEM computer lines with an interactive, food and drink fueled party with over 4,000 attendees.

In May 2013, a “Tech Summit” was held in conjunction with a traditional training symposium, showcasing 50 vendors in a tradeshow format with over 1,500 business and consumer attendees. Light fare and cocktails plus various activities in tow.

Our customers desire for more tech events in South Florida, combined with the ever-changing face of consumer electronics, we determined that a combination of the two would provide a great customer experience. Our vendors showcasing the latest in technology, interactive displays, an integration of music & art, as well as other emerging technologies.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of 5k PARK Fest at North Miami Beach Shore Bandshell on 11/2/14

5k PARK Fest at North Miami Beach Shore Bandshell on Sunday, November 2, 2014.

The award-winning 5k PARK Fest is a revolutionary large scale event that serves as a vehicle for people of all ages and capabilities to raise awareness and FUNdraise for their favorite non-profit organization, school, civic and/or faith-based organization.

The purpose of the event is simply to inspire people to PARK (Perform Acts of Random Kindness) for whatever cause moves them.

5k PARK Fest donates HALF of every PARKticipant’s $40 Registration fee directly to that individual’s cause of choice so funds add up quick for your favorite cause!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Leave A Legacy 2014-1015 Kickoff Reception at Northern Trust on 11/3/14

Celebrate the Season of Thanks and Giving with Leave A Legacy 2014-2015 Kickoff Reception at Northern Trust on Monday, November 3, 2014.

“LEAVE A LEGACY® started as an initiative of the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning of Miami-Dade County in 1997. There are LEAVE A LEGACY® Chapters in over 150 cities. The Partnership for Philanthropic Planning of Miami-Dade County, is a nonprofit organization comprised of planned giving officers, other nonprofit development officers, and other professional advisors such as attorneys, CPAs, CLUs, CFPs, trust officers and other professionals involved in estate and financial planning, who share the goal of promoting philanthropy in Miami-Dade County.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Nightmare on the Beach 2014: Alien Invasion on 10/31/14

The Little Lighthouse Foundation for its 5th annual Halloween fundraiser a Nightmare on the Beach: Alien Invasion at  Lummus Park at 9th Street on Friday, October 31, 2014. What a wonderful event on the  sands of South Beach with amazing food from Miami’s top restaurants and caterers, and live entertainment and a premium open bar,

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of #VOTE305: Officially Nonpartisan at The Stage Miami on 10/29/14

#VOTE305: Officially Nonpartisan at The Stage Miami on Wednesday, October 29, 2014.   #Vote305 is a civic initiative for voters to become better educated about candidates and the issues in the final week before the November 4th election.

#Vote305 will provide a nonpartisan platform for candidates running for office to *briefly* share about their candidacy with a diverse stakeholder group of voters. Ballot item representatives will also be given equal time to present affirmative and opposing positions on state and county ballot issues, from medical marijuana legalization to allowing libraries in parks. Stay tuned for more info on confirmed candidates and representatives!

Host Committee: Aileen Alon, Alexandra Manrique, Alex Dominguez, Binsen Gonzalez, Caryn Lavernia, David Moscoso, Dwight Bullard, Luis Gazitua, Marlon Hil, Nelson Diaz, Saif Ishoof, Vance Aloupis

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Swamptoberfest and People’s Choice Award on 10/22/14

Swamptoberfest and People’s Choice Award at Swampspace Gallery on Wednesday, October 22, 2014.

The director of Swampspace, Oliver Sanchez announced the nomination of the gallery by the Knight Foundation to their People’s Choice Award, South Florida. The announcement is a welcomed recognition for the maverick artist run project space located in the Miami Design District for nearly a decade.

Swampspace was founded on the premise that promoting artistic values increases civility among diverse groups that make up our greater community. It presents monthly exhibitions ranging from visual arts and sculpture to theatrical performance and musical interludes. With nearly fifty exhibitions and critical acclaim, Swampspace is now recognized to be a place both sophisticated enough for arbiters of taste and unvarnished enough for the iconoclast.

The People’s Choice Award highlights small arts groups making a difference in South Florida. It’s part of the Knight Arts Challenge, a community-wide contest funding the best ideas for the arts. Winners of both the challenge and People’s Choice will be announced in December.

As a way to shine the spotlight on smaller groups, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is asking the public to vote by text for their favorite of the six nominees to determine the People’s Choice winner. To vote, the public can text the nominees individual code to 22333 in the U.S. or 747-444-3548 toll-free, through 11:59 p.m. Monday Nov. 17. The effort is part of the Knight Arts Challenge, which funds projects that bring South Florida together through the arts.

The Knight Arts Challenge is a South Florida-based initiative to draw the best and most innovative ideas out of local organizations and individuals seeking to transform the community through the arts. If you have a great idea in the arts, let us know. Take part in a community rising to new levels of artistic achievement and global recognition. In the last six years, 193 ideas were funded. Is this your year?

Voting for People’s Choice Begins October 20th Ends Nov 17.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The Pink Corset Project at Rik Rak Salon Boutique and Bar on 10/22/14

The Pink Corset Project at Rik Rak Salon Boutique and Bar on Wednesday, October 22, 2014.  The Pink Corset Project in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.   The corset is made of 100% recycled materials & symbolizes “protection” for women, designed by Luis Valenzuela. This “Art to Wear” piece will go around the globe in an effort to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer.  Funds raised from the raffle will go to Badges of Courage, a local nonprofit organization, was founded to provide assistance to low income women who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer and those who are in treatment.

Special guests:
Luis Valenzuela, designer and founder of The Pink Corset Project
Marysol Patton
Alexia Echevarria
Norma Quintero
Zurami Pascual

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miamiartzine 9th Anniversary Celebration on 10/27/14

Miamiartzine 9th Anniversary Celebration at Miami Beach Botanical Gardens on Monday, October 27, 2014.  This years Miamiartzine.com honored a member of its arts community for their work and dedication to the arts. This year’s honorees are Merle Weiss, arts advocate, and ArtCenter/South Florida, Miami arts pioneer for 30 years.

Live music by Cachi and His Salsa Jazz Ensemble, provided by KCC Productions, A live dance performance by Brigette Cormier Dance Company. Featuring art installations by Miami based artist Sid Daniels and Palm Beach artist Naomi Cordero. Hosted hors d’oeuvres by the Crepe Marker and libations by Desperados Tequila Barrel lager.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Badges of Courage Dessert Reception & Silent Auction at MANO Fine Art Project Space on 10/23/14

Badges of Courage Dessert Reception & Silent Auction at MANO Fine Art Project Space on Thursday, October 23, 2014.  Badges of Courage Foundation presented a delicious and decadent dessert reception and silent ART auction to benefit breast cancer patients. We enjoy a wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres and sample signature desserts from some of Miami’s top confectioneries while bidding on unique Badges of Courage™ created by top Miami artists.

Invited Artists: Aquarela Sabol, Luis Berros, Toa Castellanos, Silvina Castillo, Ileana Collazo, Diana Contreras, Pablo Contrisciani, Debra Cortese, Atena de Jong, Karen Deilke, Eleazar Delgado, EFFIS, ERMAN, Vicente Fabre, Oswald Franco, Sheri A Friedman, Marcy Grosso, Mila Tapperi Hajjar, Jane Harris, Ernesto Kunde, Monique Lassooij, Maura Leonardo, MANO, Tony Mendoza, Odilia Mezquia, Aurora Molina, Mary Pickwell, Lori Pratico, Derek Wilson, Macarena Zilveti.

Desserts by: Bunnie Cakes, Feverish Pops, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Liberty Caffe and Misha’s Cupcakes, Daddy Brew and El Carajo provided the wine. Door prizes courtesy of Azul & Company and The Yellow Canopy.

Badges of Courage Mission: “Badges of Courage Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded to provide assistance to low income women who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer and those who are in treatment. Often, these women cannot work during their lengthy treatment and without the possibility of income, cannot afford their basic living expenses. Our goal is to give women tranquility and hope when faced with this disease.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Pause for A Cause: Party with a Purpose at Kukaramakara on 10/16/14

Pause for A Cause: Party with a Purpose at Kukaramakara on Thursday, October 16, 2014.

Pause for a Cause and “Party with a Purpose” is an annual event where local young professionals raise a glass and unite to raise money for 16 important causes in our community, 10% of every drink went directly to your favorite nonprofits! All proceeds will be split among the participating organizations including:

Coral Gables Museum Young Associates, Hands on Miami, Bakehouse Art Complex, YMCA, Miami Children’s Museum, HistoryMiami, The Sails Institute, Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, Woody Foundation, Casa Valentina, Monica Bruguera Foundation, Everglades Foundation, City Year Miami, Rebuilding Together Miami-Dade, Switchboard Miami, and NextGen of Chapman Partnership

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The Fountainhead Studios Open Studio Night on 10/18/14

The Fountainhead Studios Open Studio Night on Saturday, October 18, 2014.  What an amazing space, had a wonderful time.

 The Fountainhead Studios – “In 2008 we started with about 10,000 sq. ft. but we have expanded twice now and have over 25,000 sq. ft of studios.  We have over 35 artists creating at The Fountainhead Studios.   The studios range in size from 350-500+ sq. ft.  The studios are located at 7339 NW Miami Ct.  All studios share a well lit gated parking with secure automatic entry and are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Rent begins as low as $350 and includes all utilities.   While we’ve had few artists move, leases are month to month providing maximum flexibility to artists.  Additional Benefits:  Each artist has their own page on the studio’s website displaying images, artist’s statement, contact information (if desired) and links to artist’s and gallery website(s). We host a number of studio tours for collectors, curators and gallery owners, as well as, two open studio events per year.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of MIFFecito at The Tower Theater on 10/16/14

MIFFecito opening night at The Tower Theater on Thursday, October 16, 2014.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

PRESS RELEASE
It’s A Wrap! Miami International Film Festival’s MIFFecito, A Program Of Miami Dade College’s MDCulture,
Ends With Sold Out Screenings, Incredible Performances and Pomp

4-Day Mini Festival Run Gave Miami A Taste Of MiamiFF 2015’s Caliber Of Incredible International Programming

Opening Night Began With Director Ernesto Daranas’ Smash Hit BEHAVIOR (CONDUCTA), Continued In Spectacular Fashion at Neo-Cuban Hotspot Ball & Chain

Master Class Discussions On The Art Of Film Curation, Plus Impact of Film On Anti-Bullying Efforts, Got Audiences Thinking

MIAMI, FL – Local film lovers packed Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater this past weekend for the joyous new MIFFecito, the mid-season cinematic appetizer to 2015’s 32nd Miami International Film Festival’s (MiamiFF’s) main course taking place March 6-15, 2015. Festival organizers proclaimed the 4-day special prelude event to be successful beyond their expectations, with nonstop sold-out film screenings, exuberant visiting artists, and snazzy après-screening soirees. All MIFFecito screenings at the Tower Theater were generously presented by Viendomovies.

A jubilant MiamiFF Executive Director Jaie Laplante said, “Judging by the smile count, this autumnal run of MIFFecito was a programming initiative that truly paid off. It affirmed that the opportunity to deeply immerse one’s self in a rich, meaningful selection of superb new international cinema that is as yet undistributed in this country is profoundly desired. We’re thrilled and filled with anticipation for March!”

MIFFecito opened on Thursday, October 16th with Ernesto Daranas, the director of the sold out Opening Night film Behavior (Conducta), actor Hector Noas and the film’s art director Erick Grass, arriving for the film’s much anticipated red carpet premiere. Audiences had the pleasure of indulging in Latin treats from Tinta y Café’s pop-up café decorated with Las Tias furnishings in place just for MIFFecito. An electric question and answer session with the artists concluded the emotional Florida premiere of Behavior, and the festivities continued across the street at just-opened Ball & Chain, Little Havana’s retro, neo-Cuban hotspot which hosted MIFFecito’s Opening Night Party. Guests celebrated the electric night of live afro-Cuban sounds, gourmet Cuban tapas, and flowing libations from sponsors Bombay Sapphire and Stella Artois.

Friday night, MIFFecito kicked into full premiere gear, showcasing international hits by directors including Paco León with the North American premiere of Carmina and Amen (Spain),Matías Rojas Valencia withRoot (Chile),and director Sydney Sibilia’s I Can Quit Whenever I Want (Italy).Each filled-to-capacity premiere screened to laughing or deeply moved audiences.

Saturday afternoon, the festival changed gears to present an outstanding educational opportunity for the special master class The Art of Curation, presented by MiamiFF’s programming guru Thom Powers. Powers walked fascinated attendees through a process of engagement with audiences that goes far beyond simply choosing which movies to show. An intense discussion of connecting documentary cinema (Powers’ specialty) and audiences was opened up with the entire audience participating, with special discussion of Laura Poitras’ upcoming Citizenfour film used as a prime case study.

Saturday night, the evening crowds continued and the glamour unleashed, with cameras flashing as Mariana Chenillo, the director of Paradise (Mexico), and Roberto Sanchez, the lead actor of Lake Los Angeles (USA), appeared for the Florida premieres of their respective films. Also premiering that evening was Vara: A Blessing, directed by Bhutanese lama Khyentse Norbu, where guests were pleasantly surprised with an enchanting Bollywood dance team performance by Belly Motions.

Sunday afternoon, Moisés Kaufman, the celebrated director of The Laramie Project, was in attendance along with special guest moderator Dennis Scholl, Vice President of Arts for The Knight Foundation, for a very special retrospective screening of Kaufman’s groundbreaking film. Afterwards, an impassioned conversation ensued regarding the positive impact the film (and the original theater production) have had over the years since its 2002 debut. Kaufman took the opportunity to announce that, 23 years after forming his internationally celebrated Tectonic Theater Project in New York City, he will be forming a new Miami-based theater company with partners Gary Ressler and Michel Hausmann, in 2015.

The festival closed Sunday night with the East Coast U.S. premiere screening of director Emilio Martínez-Lázaro’s massive smash Spanish Affair (Ocho apellidos vascos), the all-time highest-grossing domestic film at the Spanish box office. Spanish Affair screened three times throughout MIFFecito, and every screening was sold out.

For MiamiFF membership opportunities or more information, please visit www.miamifilmfestival.com or call 305-237-FILM(3456). The Festival is the only major film festival event housed within a college or university.

Photographs of Miami Foundation Our Miami Official Report Release at Bakehouse Art Complex on 10/15/14

The Miami Foundation Our Miami Official Report Release at Bakehouse Art Complex on Wednesday, October 15, 2014.

“The Our Miami Report is a snapshot of our city’s quality of life indicators. It combines secondary research in eight issue areas key to Miami’s vitality, showing our greatest challenges and opportunities. The Miami Foundation, along with experts and advisors, compiles the report every two years to serve as a data-focused picture of Miami’s quality of life, a roadmap to drive community impact initiatives, and ultimately, a collective vision for our future.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami Mixer at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 10/16/14

Miami Mixer Out of the Blue at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Thursday, October 16, 2014.

Featured Artists:

Leticia Banegas – Lives in Honduras, Miami DEBUT
Gianna DiBartolomeo – Accomplished painter, Miami
Hilma Koelman Art – Dutch artist residing in Miami
Patricia Basiliades Lovay – Argentinan, living in Miami
Vinicio Ramirez – Everglades Photographer, Miami DEBUT
Eladio Ramos Pintor Colombiano – Lives in Columbia
Josephine Reyes – Film & Photography, Miami
Shirah Stern – Photography, Miami
Ralph Ventura – Miami-based Cuban American photographer

Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 24: The Affordable Care Act and The Arts Year 2 on 10/14/14

Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 24: The Affordable Care Act and The Arts Year 2 at the Artisan Lounge on Tuesday, October 14, 2014.  Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered The Affordable Care Act and The Arts.

Thank you to our Panelists:
Mary Siaz, Insuring Sources, Inc.
Maura Shiffman, Health Council of South Florida
Geronimo Schmidt, Friends With Benefits.

Thank you to our Sponsors:
Health Council of South Florida
Arts & Business Council
Snacks courtesy of KIND Snacks
Coffee tastings by Mad Chiller
About Mary Saiz , Insuring Sources, Inc.
Mary has over 25 years of senior management experience in health insurance and managed care organizations. She has worked for local and national carriers throughout her career and has been at the fore front of the Healthcare Industry and its’ evolution. Her responsibilities and knowledge have been in the areas of operations, product development, compliance, sales and marketing. She has held positions that ranged from Director of Claims to the V.P. of Commercial Marketing & Medicaid Business Development for Medica Health Plans of Florida, Inc. She is currently the President and CEO of Insuring Sources, Inc. a Healthcare Marketing and Consulting Firm in Miami, Fl

About Maura Shiffman, Health Council of South Florida
Maura Shiffman is a Community Health Specialist for the Health Council of South Florida. She received her Master’s degree in Public Health, with a concentration in Policy and Administration from Florida State University and is currently focused on the Health Council’s Affordable Care Act implementation efforts in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. She continues to work with community partners to enhance the overall health and quality of life for the residents of District 11.

About Geronimo Schmidt, Friends With Benefits Insurance & Financial Services
My goal is to provide families and business owners with assistance in building their financial freedom. I have the skills, knowledge and experience required to help meet my client’s established goals. My personal goal is to become a lifetime resource for each and every client.

About Artisan Lounge
The Artisan Lounge was established in 2011 by Christ Fellowship Miami, as a studio space for local artists with 26 naturally lit studio spaces, three exhibiting galleries and two artist lounges that promote a collaborative and creative environment unlike any other Art Studio Space in the city. Open Studio Nights, Gallery Exhibitions, Artist Talks and Workshops throughout the year bring a unique mix of artists and art lovers alike. The Artisan Lounge provides opportunities for residents, artists and visitors, to create, build and strengthen relationships with the Miami Art community.

About the Art/Work Connections Program
The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more.

About Life Is Art, Inc.
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photograph of III Points Festival at Soho Studios on 10/10/14

III Points Festival at Soho Studios on Friday, October 10, 2014.

About III Points Festival: “III Points is a three-day celebration of music, art and technology making its home in the inspiring, up-and-coming cultural mecca of the Wynwood arts district in Miami, Florida. Dedicated to bringing fans, artists and companies together, III Points represents a space where the convergence of great minds and innovators from each of these creative worlds can manifest their vision in new and playful ways. The festival is spread across more than 35 venues, fully integrating within the Wynwood community, each featuring unique and interactive events that incorporate music with technology, art with technology, music with art, or a mix of all three. III Points launched its inaugural experience in 2013, successfully igniting the Wynwood neighborhood with an influx of activations, lectures, exhibitions and concerts garnering local and national attention. With Wynwood always at its center, it brought more than 4,500 attendees to the area, opening eyes, minds and hearts to an ever-evolving cultural frontier. Building off the success of the first year, III Points will expand on the 2013 program with additional stages, more activations, and many more surprises in 2014!”

Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Busk Or Bust at MCAD on 10/10/14

Busk Or Bust at Miami Center for Architecture and Design on Friday, October 10, 2014.

 

Buskerfest Miami hosted a community forum to discuss a proposed model ordinance that distinguishes street performance from panhandling as a legal, protected act. Join us and other Downtown Miami stakeholders at the Miami Center for Architecture and Design with light snacks, drinks, live performance and a conversation about fostering a culture of street performance in Miami’s developing urban core.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Bakehouse Art Complex 2nd Friday Artwalk on 10/10/14

Bakehouse Art Complex 2nd Friday Artwalk on Friday, October 10, 2014.

Bakehouse Art Complex Mission: Enable and encourage artistic creativity through diversity and collaboration

  • By providing affordable studio spaces for juried emerging and mid-career artists
  • Providing exhibition opportunities, educational and artist advancement programming, and common workshop spaces
  • Serve as a cultural hub providing a venue for performance and critical thought in Miami’s historic art deco bakery

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Craft Spirit Festival at The Cruz Building on 10/9/14

Craft Spirit Festival at The Cruz Building on Thursday, October 9, 2014.

“Craft Spirit Festival GRAND TASTING is the best exposition of Craft, Small Batch, Artisanal and Boutique Spirits & Cocktails in MIAMI! Attendees taste unlimited samples of fine spirits and cocktails from renowned craft distillers and discuss their artisan whiskeys, brandies, vodkas, gins, liqueurs and more.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Art Deco Museum VIP Reception on 10/9/14

Art Deco Museum VIP Reception on Thursday, October 9, 2014.

“Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) is proud to present Miami Beach’s Art Deco Museum.  The Museum allows tourists and local to better understand the architectural heritage and community culture of Miami Beach. MDPL designed the museum to be educational and informational, while reflecting the fun and glamour of Miami Beach.”

“A visit to the museum will teach about the three major historic design styles in Miami Beach.  These styles are Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco and Miami Modern (MiMo).  Scale models of select buildings allow you to have a closer look at the elements of these structures. You will also learn about the development of the City Miami Beach. The Miami Beach Visual Memoirs project has recorded the personal stories of people who have been a part of Miami Beach’s story. MDPL’s history is also on display so that guests can learn more about preservation. The museum includes a resource center, a children’s area, rotating exhibits and much more!”

Miami Design Preservation League mission Statement: Miami Design Preservation League is a non-profit organization devoted to preserving, protecting, and promoting the cultural, social, economic, environmental and architectural integrity of the Miami Beach Architectural Historic District. Originally organized by Barbara Capitman and friends in 1976, it is the oldest Art Deco Society in the World. 

MDPL provides cultural and educational programs to Dade County residents, surrounding counties, citizens of Florida and to national and international visitors and tourists. Our programs are developed for the general public and have special appeal to those interested in art, design, architecture, history, preservation, urban and community planning and development.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of AFP Miami Member Mixer at Scotty’s Landing on 10/8/14

Association of Fundraising Professionals Miami Member Mixer at Scotty’s Landing on Wednesday, October 8, 2014.  AFP Miami and the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce joined together for an wonderful evening of cocktails and conversation overlooking beautiful Biscayne Bay.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of AFP Miami Member Mixer at Scotty's Landing on 10/8/14

Association of Fundraising Professionals Miami Member Mixer at Scotty’s Landing on Wednesday, October 8, 2014.  AFP Miami and the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce joined together for an wonderful evening of cocktails and conversation overlooking beautiful Biscayne Bay.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Young Patronesses of the Opera celebrated their 59th Annual Gala Cocktail Reception at The Betsy Hotel By Betty Alvarez

The Betsy Hotel, La Fenice Prosecco, Leatrice Damus, Maria-Rosa Lopez-Munoz & Barbara Reese hosted a Swanky evening of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the downstairs B-bar of the The Betsy on South Beach on October 5th, to celebrate the wonderful benefactors snd underwriters of the upcoming 59th Annual Young Patronesses of the Opera Gala “Hat Spats & Pearls… A Toast to the Roaring 20’s.” Guests received a favor of Satin Glow Gold dust by Prestige Cosmetics to carry the sparkle of the evening with them.

The annual YPO Gala – now in its 59th year – is considered among Miami’s oldest and most prestigious black tie affairs. This elegant soiree, organized by Lisa Wheeler, President of YPO and Gala Chairs Laurel Auerbacher, Amal Kabbani, Patty Scerpella, Lori Thomas and Lise-Marie Wertanzl, will feature a silent auction, live entertainment, dancing, and a three-course meal to raise funds for YPO’s music education programs.

The Gatsby-style party will evoke the excitement of the era and many spirited YPO members and guests will forego traditional ball gowns and black-tie for imaginative designs which reflect the era of flappers, starlets, gangsters and aristocrats. During a cocktail hour guests will enjoy an inspired silent auction, followed by dinner, dancing to the 8-piece band, Manhattan Music, and entertainment by the internationally-acclaimed singers Poperazzi.

Founded almost 60 years ago in 1955, YPO is a volunteer group of 100 dedicated women who advocate for music and opera education to children in South Florida. Proceeds raised at Hat Spats and Pearls will be used to fund 100% of YPO’s music and opera educational programs. Every year, YPO presents a workshop for more than 500 Girl Scouts, and a professional development Teacher Workshop on opera in the classroom for Miami-Dade and Broward County teachers. YPO also brings professional children’s opera performances to more than 30,000 elementary students annually. This year, YPO will expand its musical outreach program to children who are hospitalized. In addition, YPO also presents a national voice competition for aspiring young opera singers. This year it is slated for April 16-18 at the colony Theatre on Miami Beach.

For Tickets, sponsorship and underwriting information for Hats Spats and Pearls, please contact Lisa Wheeler at President@ypo-miami.org or at 305-794-1761.

Photography by Betty Alvarez

 

Photography by Betty Alvarez

Digest Miami Launches Bureau of Spirits at A.I.R. Miami Beach

80A2EDC430485609B60432F22C1E843C

Digest Miami continues its commitment to culinary exploration with these intimate and unique experiences and launched of Bureau of Spirits,  a series of rotating craft spirits and culinary events bringing together local and national small batch distilleries, craft breweries and South Florida’s best local chefs. Each Bureau of Spirits event features a meet and greet with master distillers and brewers, unique cocktails and tastings, chefs’ selected pairings and an intimate opportunity to learn about the people and processes that make up the craft movement.

Bureau of Spirits launch party took place Thursday, September 25th at the A.I.R. (Artists in Residence) on Miami Beach. This initial event highlighted three Florida distilleries including Wicked Dolphin, Miami Club Rum and Alchemist Distilleries with a complimentary tasting and cocktail selection. Kris Wessel of Oolite created a delectable menu of passed hors d’oeuvres to complement the evening. All of the refreshments will be made with local produce from our friend and expert forager, Nick Bernal of Seasons Farm Fresh, a group of foragers that provide sustainably grown and harvested produce from Florida’s local farms.

The Bureau of Spirits launch also celebrated the official kickoff of the 2nd Annual CRAFT: Spirits & Beer to be held in January 2015.

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

Photographs of Coconut Grove Art Walk on 10/4/14

Coconut Grove Art Walk on Saturday, October 4, 2014.  Coconut Grove Art Walk is the first Saturdasy of every month, had such a great time.  Our first stop was Blu Moon Studio of Art featuring William Champ Butler an amazing artist.  Then we walked around listening to all the wonderful live music on the street and ended up at the Coconut Grove Art Festival Gallery featuring Carlos Llerena Aguirre such beautiful art.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of 4th Annual Celebrate Orgullo Festival at North Beach on 10/4/14

4th Annual Celebrate Orgullo Festival at North Beach on Saturday, October 4, 2014. Celebrate Orgullo Festival is the  only Hispanic LGBT Pride Festival.  Had such a wonderful!!!!!

Unity Coalition|Coalición Unida is a Florida 501(c)3 non-profit whose focus is the Leadership, Protection & Promotion of Latino|Hispanic LGBTQ rights (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning) – The only organization of its kind in So. Fla. since 2002.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami Broward Carnival 2014 Kick-Off Party at The Pèrez Art Museum Miami on 10/2/14

Miami Broward Carnival Teams Up With The Pèrez Art Museum Miami To Kick-Off Miami Broward Carnival 2014 on Thursday, October 2. 2014.  Miami Broward Parade of Bands and Concert – 30 Years of Miami Carnival Celebration at Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo Center on Sunday, October 12, 11am-11pm- Parade Kicks off at 12 noon.

Advance General Admission Tickets: $27
Advance on-line VIP tickets: $100
Website & Tickets
Parking: Free

“The Miami-Broward One Carnival Host Committee is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing a safe, family festival in South Florida and outlying areas, fostering community pride and civic involvement, and providing critical opportunities to the Caribbean people in South Florida to share the Caribbean culture, promote cultural exchange and build economic cooperation in the multi-ethnic and multi-cultural environment of South Florida.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami Broward Carnival 2014 Kick-Off Party at The Pèrez Art Museum Miami on 10/2/14

Miami Broward Carnival Teams Up With The Pèrez Art Museum Miami To Kick-Off Miami Broward Carnival 2014 on Thursday, October 2. 2014.  Miami Broward Parade of Bands and Concert – 30 Years of Miami Carnival Celebration at Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo Center on Sunday, October 12, 11am-11pm- Parade Kicks off at 12 noon.

Advance General Admission Tickets: $27
Advance on-line VIP tickets: $100
Website & Tickets
Parking: Free

“The Miami-Broward One Carnival Host Committee is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing a safe, family festival in South Florida and outlying areas, fostering community pride and civic involvement, and providing critical opportunities to the Caribbean people in South Florida to share the Caribbean culture, promote cultural exchange and build economic cooperation in the multi-ethnic and multi-cultural environment of South Florida.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of PhilanthroFest Cocktails and Causes at Blackbird Ordinary on 10/2/14

PhilanthroFest Cocktails and Causes at Blackbird Ordinary on Thursday, October 2, 2014.

PhilanthroFest mission: ” PhilanthroFest is a volunteer based organization that connects people, passion and philanthropy in South Florida. The PhilanthroFest team celebrates the South Florida arts community, philanthropic organizations and community resources in a yearly, large scale community event.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Terror in the Jungle at Jungle Island on 10/2/14

Florida Event Productions and Jungle Island present Terror in the Jungle at Jungle Island on Thursday, October 2, 2014.  Will run from Thurs.-Sun. and one Wed. from Oct. 2, 2014 – Nov. 1, 2014 from 7:30 pm till Midnight.

“Terror in the Jungle is by Brandon Von Kittendorf, the creator of Festival of Souls (Demon Mansion), voted Florida’s Scariest Haunted House by Hauntworld.com.This Halloween super production will feature a chilling 40 x 22-foot Toxic Zombie Jungle Entrance that will lead guests through 5 acres of bloodcurdling Jungle trails to reach a terrifying 10,000 square-foot Ancient Ruins Pyramid Haunted House and a VIP Zombie Lounge sponsored by E11EVEN MIAMI. The jungle will be filled with booby traps, scary creatures, demons and military HAZMAT containment units while guests are chased by blood-thirsty mutated creatures and Indian zombies.”

$45 to $55 – General Admission (Depending on Night)

$20 – $30 Fast Pass – Peak & Non Peak Nights
(Includes Entrance & The Ruins Pyramid)

$5 – Child Care
Group Rates & Party Packages AvailableCall (855) 666-7685

Hours of Operation: 7:30 to Midnight or until the last victim is served.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Northwestern High School Pavac Bulls Eye Art Gallery Grand Opening on 10/1/14

Northwestern High School Pavac Bulls Eye Art Gallery Grand Opening on Wednesday, October 1, 2014.

“This is a unique art space – shared student and community gest artist… Great Vibe … Good Energy … Special place with a purpose… Guest Artists: Edouadr Duvall Carrie, Eleazar Delgado, Baye, Luis Valle, Monique lassooij , Robert McKnight, Jude Papaloko and Anthony Lumpkin. “

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of House of Horror Amusement Park at Miami International Mall on 9/25/14

House of Horror Amusement Park at Miami International Mall on Thursday, September 25, 2014.

“House of Horror Amusement Park, now in its 5th year, returns bigger and better. With over 10 new terrifying rooms in South Florida’s largest Haunted House, all-new “Malice In Wonderland” 3D Experience, the return of Hulk Hogan’s Microchip Championship Wrestling), a unique experience with midget athletes in wrestling matches and, for the first time in South Florida, escape artist Michael Griffin from “America’s Got Talent live onstage. All this, plus over 20 dazzling amusement rides, carnival games, live concerts, food and more. Kiddie rides for smaller children.”

Cost: $25 for adults and $15 for children (ages 6 and under).
Monday – Thursday: 6PM to 11PM
Friday & Saturday: 5PM to Midnight
Sunday: 5PM to 11PM
*Subject to weather and change. Haunted house hours vary from park hours.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Viernes Culturales on 9/26/14

Viernes Culturales on Friday, September 26, 2014.  Our first stop of the evening was at Galeria Adelmo (located at 1165 SW 6th Street) an amazing gallery which had an opening reception featuring Cuban Artists Antonio del Moral and Angel Larrua.  Mr. Del Moral will exhibit earlier watercolors and Giclees.  Then made our way over to 8th Street and had a wonderful time and to top the night off the best roasted pork sandwich from Puerco Asado.

Viernes Culturales/Cultural Fridays, Inc. is a nonprofit organization which coordinates the popular Viernes Culturales/Cultural Fridays art, music and culture festival. Our events are held on the last Friday of every month in the heart of Little Havana, on Calle Ocho between 13th and 17th Avenues, from 7-11 pm.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami Urban Music and Film Festival on 9/27/14

Miami Urban Music and Film Festival at Miami Dade College – Wolfson Campus on Saturday, September 27, 2014.

“The mission of the Urban Music & Film Festival is to foster the development and engagement of music, entertainment & film talent in Florida, and those that support the industry through musical expression and cinematic story-telling via the visual, and dramatic arts.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The Global Party Miami at Shelborne Wyndham Grand on 9/27/14

The Global Party Miami at Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach benefiting UCP Baby House Project on Saturday, September 27, 2014.
The Global Charity Trust’s philanthropic mission is to support hundreds of worldwide charitable causes with both financial aid and increased global awareness, focusing on health, education, the environment, children, the arts and animal welfare. It’s charitable goals are achieved through two initiatives: The Global Party and THE MOVEMENT. Both of these international campaigns work hand-in-hand with the luxury industry to support philanthropy in upto 360 cities worldwide. The Global Charity Trust is governed by CAF (Charities Aid Foundation, registered charity number 268369).”

UCP Baby House Project Company Overview: “The Baby House Project is a volunteer effort of members of the Miami Architecture, Interior Design & Medical community to build a home for young adults with Cerebral Palsy and other disabilities. This home will serve as a template for future homes that our team will build throughout the United States for many people with different disabilities.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Pomona College celebrated Partnership with Posse Foundation By Betty Alvarez

Pomona College, a nationally renowned liberal arts college celebrated its expanded partnership with The Posse Foundation to provide 10 full-tuition scholarships to Miami-area high school seniors who are interested in STEM studies and careers. A cocktail reception was held at Tuyo restaurant located on the Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus which was attended by educational leaders in Miami Dade County.

“We are happy to be partnering with The Posse Foundation in Miami for the first time. We know this is going to be a successful program for the students selected. This model provides not only placing them in supportive, multicultural teams, but also offers them small class sizes and easy access to faculty, which results in more opportunities for research and mentorship,” said David Oxtoby, president of Pomona College.

Pomona College began its partnership with the Posse Foundation in 2004 and has graduated five groups of Posse students with a nearly 100 percent four-year graduation rate. Deborah Bial, president of Posse Foundation stated, “The Posse Foundation appreciates Pomona College and their commitment to diversity in education they are true institutional heroes. Collectively, they send a clear message giving these young men and women the opportunity to become well educated leaders of tomorrow.

ABOUT POMONA COLLEGE
Pomona College, founded in 1887, is known for its distinctive liberal arts education, small classes, close relationships between students and faculty, and opportunities for research and involvement on campus and in the community. It is the founding college of The Claremont Colleges.

ABOUT THE POSSE FOUNDATION
Founded in 1989, Posse identifies public high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential who may be overlooked by traditional college selection processes. Posse extends to these students the opportunity to pursue personal and academic excellence by placing them in supportive, multicultural teams—Posses—of 10 students.

Photographs of Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 18 Pop-Up Social at Cocktail Collection on 9/23/14

Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art #16 Pop-Up Social at Cocktail Collection, upstairs at Tobacco Road on Tuesday, September 23, 2014.

Featured Artists: Edilberto Aponte, Marcelo Salup and David Martins

Auditory Art by -UOM_

Featured Charities: OC IT! Detect Ovarian Cancer in Time

Cocktail Collection’ September Artist: Aaron Arroyave

Music by DJ Hank Justice

About the River Of Art Program:

The River Of Art is a monthly business networker and art showcase combined. We provide more than just a platform for professionals to get together, discuss business strategies and make connections, we create synergies to help promote business by including an amazing art show of local talent!

About Life Is Art

Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 no Add Median-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Internations Networker at The National Hotel on 9/18/14

InterNations Miami Networker at The National Hotel on  Thursday, September 18, 2014.

InterNations Mission: “I nterNations is the first international online community for people who live and work abroad. As a network based on trust, we enable our members to interact with other global minds in a similar situation, with comparable interests and needs. InterNation users can keep in touch with friends and business contacts; they can exchange reliable information on expat-specific topics, both on a global and a local level.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of MDAD Press Conference and Dwntwn Art Days Kick Off Event at McCormick Place on 9/19/14

MDAD Press Conference and Dwntwn Art Days Kick Off Event at McCormick Place on Friday, September 19, 2014.

MDAD Mission: “To create one voice for all Art, History, and Cultural organizations and to establish First Friday Arts Night for the benefit of all in the District.  The Miami Downtown Arts District’s vision is two-fold: To showcase Downtown Miami as a destination where the community can become familiar with local artists, smaller galleries and venues, and the businesses that exhibit and support the arts; and to extend its support of the greater whole and efforts by the larger cultural institutions, art fairs, and the Miami Downtown Development Authority to establish Downtown Miami as an internationally-recognized cultural epicenter.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Constitution Day Miami 2014 at Freedom Tower on 9/17/14

Third annual Constitution Day Miami 2014 at Freedom Tower on Wednesday, September 17, 2014.  Constitution Day is a federal observance recognizing our country’s citizens as well as the day that the U.S. Constitutional Convention signed the Constitution in 1787. The observance also honors the rights and liberties granted and protected by the Constitution.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Dwntwn Art Days on 9/20/14

Dwntwn Art Days on Saturday, September 20, 2014.

About Dwntwn Art Days: “2014 marks the third annual Art Days weekend. In this app you will find an Art Days event calendar that features over 170 free events (unless otherwise noted) packed into three fun-filled days. Art Days is a collaboration between the Miami Downtown Development Authority (Miami DDA) and the cultural spaces and artists residing in Downtown Miami. Together, we have ensured that there is something for everyone, including exhibitions, artist projects, walking tours, bike tours, art parties and family programming across a multitude of cultural venues throughout Downtown Miami. Not only this, in 2014 the Miami DDA launched a micro-grant program to support projects created uniquely for Art Days. As a result, Art Days features a wide selection of temporal art projects that explore a variety of creative fields including performance, art, music, dance, art education and more.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 23: Financial Planning for Artists with Zak Mann on 9/16/14

Life Is Art  presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 23: Financial Planning for Artists with Zak Mann at Bakehouse Art Complex on Tuesday, September 16, 2014.  Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered Financial Planning for Artists.

About Zak Mann:
Zak Mann is a financial representative at National Planning Corporation. With over ten years of experience in the industry, Zak’s practice focuses on income and asset protection for physicians, young professionals and multigenerational businesses. He lectures to resident programs throughout South Florida on the importance of early planning. In 2013 Zak was the top agent for his agency in Disability Insurance premiums.
Born and raised here in Miami, Zak is very involved in the community and is the current president of the Coral Gables Museum’s Young Associates, on the board of Mt Sinai Hospital’s foundation, a Miami Children’s Hospital Young Ambassador, and a founding executive committee member of the American Heart association Pulse. In his free time Zak enjoys fishing, competitive BBQing, and is a published photographer.

About Bakehouse Art Complex:
Since its inception, the Bakehouse Art Complex (BAC) has served as a creative incubator for more than a thousand emerging and mid-career artists. The Bakehouse offers more than just studio space. This dynamic artistic community is home to dozens of artists working side-by-side in every media imaginable in an environment where they share in each other’s creative processes and inspire, encourage and motivate one another.
The Bakehouse is also the perfect place to enjoy contemporary art in the making year-round, featuring 65 working artist studios, two galleries with monthly exhibition openings, classes, and working facilities, such as a fully functional print room, dark room, a woodworking area, welding room and ceramic kilns for artist use. Thanks to the generous support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, BAC will create a ceramics studio and South Florida’s first community-accessible fine arts metal casting foundry in 2015. These areas provide Resident and Associate artists with in-house facilities to develop or to experiment and integrate new media into their work.
Open free 7 days per week, the Bakehouse offers patrons a rare glimpse into the creative experience and an opportunity to interact directly with a diverse and talented community of over 60 contemporary artists. With monthly exhibition openings, cultural and community events, classes for adults and children, and a soon-to-be-launched monthly Green and Art market, the BAC is not only a creative center, but also a vibrant community hub serving its artists, patrons, art buyers, and the South Florida community.

About the Art/Work Connections Program
The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more.

About Life Is Art, Inc.
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Next month Art/Work Connections on Affordable Care and The Arts Year 2  will be held on October 14th at The Artisan Lounge so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Opening Reception at The Bakehouse Art Complex on 9/12/14

Sway Away and Convoluted Shape by Jamilah Sabur Opening Reception  at The Bakehouse Art Complex on Friday, September 12, 2014.

Sway Away exhibition is in the Audrey Love Gallery from September 10 – September 28.  “This show will feature two- and three- dimensional artworks representing the artists’ interpretation and capture of movement. Kinetic and site specific projects will be the focus creating a direct dialogue between science, physics and the arts.”

Convoluted Shape by Jamilah Sabur is in the Swenson Gallery from September 10 – October 18. “This exhibition studies the interdisciplinary uses of the body as a vehicle for expression. Jamilah Sabur opens the exhibition on September 12th with a multi-channel video installation and performance encompassing the interplay of inwardness and the secondariness of the audience through movement, concealment, obstacles and physical limitations as well as spontaneous and imperfect, sometimes comic, unrehearsed movements. The results illustrate the perverse rule the artist seems to have discovered: the less she can see, the more we, an audience, look.”

The Bakehouse Art Complex Mission:
 “Enable and encourage artistic creativity through diversity and collaboration.  By providing affordable studio spaces for juried emerging and mid-career artists
 Providing exhibition opportunities, educational and artist advancement programming, and common workshop spaces. Serve as a cultural hub providing a venue for performance and critical thought in Miami’s historic art deco bakery”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

 

Photographs of Orchestra Miami’s Pre-Season FriendRaiser at Eleazer Delgado Studio on 9/11/14

Orchestra Miami’s Pre-Season FriendRaiser at Eleazer Delgado Studio on Thursday, September 11, 2014.  We enjoyed an evening of art, friendship and music by Orchestra Miami musicians!

About Orchestra Miami: ” Orchestra Miami exists to create community through music, bringing high quality symphonic music to all people in South Florida. We seek to make concert-going convenient and affordable, and to provide our audience with performances that contain innovative programming, educational excellence with a clear focus on celebrating Miami’s diverse cultural heritage.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at Havana 1957 on 9/10/14

Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at Havana 1957 on Wednesday, September 10, 2014.  A welcome complimentary drink courtesy of Ron Barcelo.  The Chambers of Bolivia, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chili,  Doral, Downtown Miami & Brick, Ecuador,  Junior Chamber International, Haiti, Honduras, Medley, Mercosur, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater and Brickell Rotary Club celebrating yet another successful MultiChamber of Commerce event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of A Swing Thing at The TSL Lounge on 9/5/14

Swing Thing” at The TSL Lounge on Friday, September 5, 2104.  Outlit Avenue and Justin Hamel launch party and fundraiser to benefit “A Swing Thing,” its first interactive community project.  Artists hand painted swings that will then be installed throughout Miami. We enjoyed live painting and music all for a great cause.

Outlit Avenue Mission:  “We believe that everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, should have access to physical, creative and social outlets that will help them live a more happy, healthy and productive life.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Batch Gastropub: New Fall Menu Excites by Betty Alvarez

The first time I’ve been to Batch Gastropub was to celebrate my friend’s birthday party. When I first went in, I was amazed about how casual but comfortable the restaurant is. It’s a gastropub where the menu was approachable and there was an expansive drink list. We celebrated during their happy hour and the placed got packed as soon as I got there. My girlfriends and I indulged in their wonderful happy hour menu and their regular menu. A memorable time for all!

This time around, I got the opportunity to preview their Autumn menu which I was excited to taste. I could not wait for the delectable surprises that this place that had brought my tastebuds into action.

First of all, I was greeted with a cornucopia of cocktail samplings. The one that stood out is the Green Pepper Mojito as I thought it was going to be super sweet but to my surprise it wasn’t. I could taste the green pepper flavor in my mouth but it was not overwhelming to sour my taste of the food that I was about to sample.

Batch gave us two types of menus to choose from for our tasting one that had the house made meatballs or the General Tso’s Cauliflower dish as the starter.

We began with a snack: Salmon Crudo comprised with the House Cured Faroe Island Salmon on top of Florida peaches with Truffled vinaigrette and maldon salt. This small snack was a different experience as I never tasted a salmon on top of a slice of peach before. The salmon taste came to my tastebuds first and then complimented it with the sweet peach infusing both into a nice sweet and delectable light bite.

Then came the starters, the house made meatballs of duck, short rib and pork belly on a sweet potato puree and Serrano ham gave me great delight. The meatballs were warm, soft to chew and the sweet potato puree gave it a good additive to my palate.

The next starter was the Tuna Poke-Peanut Butter “Crumble”, wonton, scallion, and crispy ginger. Although I did not taste the peanut butter but the scallion and the crispy ginger is what stood out of my mind. It was delicious.

For the veggies part, a Batch Kale Salad was served. Now I never had Kale in my life so I was delighted and nervous at the same time in trying this salad comprised of raw kale, hearts of palm, peanuts, strawberry vinaigrette, and parmesan. To my surprise, I loved it. The kale was not overpowering and the vinaigrette made everything come together. Definitely will have to try that salad again next time I go to Batch Gastropub.

Now the main course: The Drunken Short Rib which is a whiskey braised short rib with Vanilla and Sour Mash, Creamy polenta and Cinammon roasted carrots on the side. The meat was so tender that it was falling out of the bone. I could taste the whisky a bit but my memory was the warm, soft, juicy meat that these ribs had. Other than the cinnamon that covered the carrots it was also mixed with a coffee flavored sauce which had a distinctive taste.

The sweets that culminated our experience is the Carnival Donuts-fried dough, powdered sugar, with a warm chocolate ganache and Kahlua syrup. Now these round donuts were the best and my favorite was dumping it in the Kahlua syrup rather than the chocolate ganache. It was so taste was so much richer to my palate.
A very sweet experience to end this preview tasting.

All in all, I can’t wait for this autumn menu to be announced to the general public as Batch Gastropub wants to exemplify the farm to table concept as it is healthier option for everyone but with full of taste. Kudos to Batch Gastropub!

Photographs of MiamiMixer Invitational at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 8/28/14

MiamiMixer Invitational at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Thursday, August 28, 2014.   This is a monthly group show hosted at Eleazar Delgado Studio in Downtown Miami.

Artist Lineup for this month was  Jason Aponte, Claudia Calle, Stefanie Caro, Ian Fichman, Jacqueline Gopie and Yosniel Zambrano.

 

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of the Summer Art Series by Miami’s Independent Thinkers at The James Royal Palm on 8/20/14

Miami’s Independent Thinkers presents Summer Art Series  featuring local artist Ted VanCleave and Dan Schneiger at The James Royal Palm on  on Wednesday, August 20, 2014. We enjoyed amazing complimentary bites and cocktails fromFlorida Cookery.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 17 Pop-Up Social at Tongue & Cheek on 8/19/14

Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art #16 Pop-Up Social at Tongue & Cheek on Tuesday, July 22, 2014.

Featured Artists: Monique Lassooij, Judith Mistor, Alejandro Cuadra and Prince Aderele.

Featured Charities: Indie Film Club and Whereby.US

About the River Of Art Program:

The River Of Art is a monthly business networker and art showcase combined. We provide more than just a platform for professionals to get together, discuss business strategies and make connections, we create synergies to help promote business by including an amazing art show of local talent!

About Life Is Art
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is September 23rd at Cocktail Collection at Tobacco Road so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Conscious Acts of Kindness Pub Crawl on 8/10/14

Conscious Acts of Kindness Pub Crawl on Sunday, August 10, 2014.  This pub crawl benefited The Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Conscious Acts of Kindness mission of our 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is to empower and inspire people and their communities. Through our Conscious Acts of Kindness we spotlight global issues, raise awareness and unify the voices of our planet. Our mission is made possible by those who follow our Conscious Acts of Kindness and pay it forward. Your support allows us to perform Conscious Acts of Kindness all over the world and continue to inspire the movement.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of The Motivational Edge Student Showcase at The Stage on 8/8/14

The Motivational Edge Student Showcase at The Stage on Friday, August 8, 2014.

The Motivational Edge Mission Statement:  “The Motivational Edge is a 501(c)(3) organization that utilizes culturally relevant arts as a motivational platform to inspire youth towards academic achievement, increased self-confidence and the building of essential life skills.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Freebee Launch and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Brickell on 8/1/14

Freebee Launch and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Brickell on Friday, August 1, 2014.

“Freebee is an alternative transportation service and marketing platform that currently services Miami Beach, Downtown Miami and the Brickell area with a fleet of 20 fully customized, 100% electric vehicles. Freebee vehicles individually host marketing campaigns for a variety of clients, which include both national brands and local companies.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of JusticeHack at LAB Miami on 8/1/14

JusticeHack at LAB Miami on Friday, August 1, 2014.

Building a Miami Where All People Can Thrive:  On August 1-2, 2014, the Community Justice Project (CJP) of Florida Legal Services, together with the Bertha Justice Institute of the Center for Constitutional Rights and the Bertha Foundation, sponsored a creative workshop to bring together Miamians with a range of skills and backgrounds to work together on specific issues facing low-income renters, youth of color, taxi drivers and plant nursery workers in Miami.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 22: Contract Negotiation for Artists with RKE Law Group on 8/12/14

Life Is Art  presents Art/Work Connections Seminar 22: Contract Negotiation for Artists with RKE Law Group at Kroma Gallery on Tuesday, August 12, 2014.  Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered  Understanding Grants for Artist.

About RKE Law Group
RKE Law Group, an all woman law firm serving South Florida, helps entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives safeguard their businesses and ideas using cutting edge legal strategies that will minimize risk, guard cash flow, and protect their intellectual property. RKE was founded by attorneys, Monica Reyes, Alexandra Kontos, and Lisa Ehrenreich.

About Kroma
A new collective art space located on Grand Avenue in the heart of Coconut Grove consisting of 18 artists studios and a communal gallery space. KROMA’s mission is to serve as an affordable, contemporary space for artists, whose creative output will contribute to connecting the spirits of Coconut Grove’s rich past, present and future.

About the Art/Work Connections Program
The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more.

About Life Is Art, Inc.
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Next month Art/Work Connections on  Financial Planning for Artists with Zak Mann is September 16 at Bakehouse Art Complex so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at Yage Bay Club on 8/6/14

Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at Yage Bay Club on Wednesday, August 6, 2014.  A welcome complimentary drink courtesy of Ron Barcelo.  The Chambers of Bolivia, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chili,  Doral, Downtown Miami & Brick, Ecuador,  Junior Chamber International, Haiti, Honduras, Medley, Mercosur, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater and Brickell Rotary Club celebrating yet another successful MultiChamber of Commerce event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of the 2nd Miami New Times Iron Fork Miami Spice Grand Tasting on 7/31/14

The Second Miami New Times Iron Fork Miami Spice Grand Tasting at Hyatt Regency Miami on Thursday, July 31, 2014.  I had so much fun, I think this years was my favorite, great food and an awesome space.  Miami New Times Once Again Joins Miami Spice as the Official Kickoff Host for the Dining Season.

About Miami Spice: The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau organizes Miami Spice, a mouthwatering restaurant promotion that showcases the best of Miami cuisine. During August and September, restaurants offer three-course meals featuring signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs. It’s a tropical fusion of ingredients that makes Miami an epicurean paradise.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photos of the Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

The 22nd Annual International Mango Festival was a succulent celebration this year. The mangos of Colombia were honored and the abundant harvest could be tasted all over the park.  The festival transpired over two days and included an exquisite mango inspired brunch, yoga, children activities, lectures, cooking demonstrations, beer and wine tasting among many more events. The Edward mango, one of Miami’s sweetest and sexiest was voted as the fan favorite in the Mango Tasting Room. At the Mango Auction, Thailand’s Nam Doc Mai, one of Asia’s most sought after mangos, fetched the highest bid. In addition to the mangos, it was serene to wander through the rainforest and experience the Butterfly Conservatory. We will definitely be back next year for the 23rd installment.

Photographs of Pechakucha at Bakehouse Art Complex on 7/24/14

Pechakucha Miami at Bakehouse Art Complex on Thursday July 24, 2014.

What is PechaKucha 20×20? – PechaKucha 20×20 is a simple presentation format where you show 20 images, each for 20 seconds. The images advance automatically and you talk along to the images.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Sunset Rendez Vous at W Hotel South Beach on 7/19/14

Sunset Rendez Vous at W Hotel South Beach on Saturday, July 19, 2014.  The Annual Fashion Week Celebration was back in Miami.
Sunset Rende Vvous was sponsored by Whispering Angel Rose & Perrier, the Beauty Lounge by Inglot & Anarkali. Fashion shows featured Mova/Holt/Venao/GBC plus the art show with Anastasia The Great & Perego , music by DJ Jay Sample and produced by Ricardo Ralph Lopez.

Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of Overtown Music and Art Festival on 7/19/14

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon  of Overtown Music and Art Festival on Saturday, July 19, 2014. This was the 4th annual Overtown Music and Arts Festival (formerly named Overtown Rhythm and Arts Festival), took place in the heart of the Overtown Business District. The event started at 11am and was free and open to the public. This year had a star-studded line up of musical artists which was headlined by Grammy-nominated Raheem Devaughn. Entertainment also included live performances by Keke Wyatt, Case, Jaguar Wright, Teedra Moses, Deep Fried Funk Band, and Larry Dogg.

To see more of  Anthony Jordon‘s  work go to his flickr page or his facebook page.

Photographs of Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 16 Pop-Up Social at LeKoKe Wine & Bites on 7/22/14

Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art #16 Pop-Up Social at LeKoKe Wine & Bites on Tuesday, July 22, 2014.

Featured Artists:  Ileana Collazo, Aquarela Sabol and Chy Tea Shoulin

Featured Charities:  PARK Project and Heroines Choir

Music by DJ Hank Justice

About the River Of Art Program:
The River Of Art is a monthly business networker and art showcase combined. We provide more than just a platform for professionals to get together, discuss business strategies and make connections, we create synergies to help promote business by including an amazing art show of local talent!

About Life Is Art
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is August 19nd at Tongue and Cheek so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Planet Kitchen Food and Wellness Tour

Planet Kitchen celebrated its maiden voyage of its Planet Kitchen Healthy Organic Food, Drink and Wellness Tour, highlighting a growing trend towards healthy and sustainable living in South Florida. It also showcased local farms, markets, restaurants and businesses who make real food and drinks to heal us naturally from the inside out. 

Planet-Kitchen-138

We started our tour at Trio Studio, located in between Wynwood & the Design District (Midtown) in Miami. There we had a wonderful grounding meditation to start our journey followed by  an awesome demonstration of Budokon Yoga, AcroYoga, and Aerial Yoga.   Tour participants had an opportunity to get in on the action and try out AcroYoga for themselves.  It was really beautiful to participate and watch.

Planet-Kitchen-96

Afterwards, the folks at Sambazon shared a refreshing fruit, mint and frozen acai concoction called an “acai bowl.”  This superfood charged treat is also non-GMO, Fair Trade and b-certified. We enjoyed it so much, we purchased a bottle that same week.  I’m sure it will be a permanent part of our refrigerator as we support conscious companies and healthy nutrition.  Continue reading “Planet Kitchen Food and Wellness Tour”

Photographs of Miami Mixer: FREEDOM at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 7/18/14

Miami Mixer: FREEDOM at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Friday, July 18, 2014.   This is a monthly group show which happens on the 3rd Friday of every month & hosted at Eleazar Delgado Studio in Downtown Miami.

Artist Lineup for this month was  Erik Ace SobeArtist, Al Blanco, Marco Caridad, AK cespedes photography, Jonathan Cole, Diana Pantoja, Eladio Ramos and Anita Wexler Artist .

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Bird Road Art Walk on 7/19/14

Bird Road Art Walk on Saturday, July 19, 2014.  What a great wonderful art walk, this art walk is mostly artist studios, so you get to meet the artist, ask them questions and get to see the space where they create their art.   Click here for a list of the participating Bird Road Art District Studios and see you all next month

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Florida Supercon at Miami Beach Convention Center on 7/3/14 – 7/6/14

Florida Supercon at Miami Beach Convention Center on July 3rd – July 6th, 2014.  Florida Supercon is the largest comic con and geek event in South Florida features hundreds of comic book, film, television, cosplay, entertainment, and anime guests.  Such an awesome event and I love everything about it.

If you did not make it out this year you miss an awesome time so keep a look out for the dates for next year.

You can check out their new event Magic City Comic Con being held January 16-18, 2015 at the Miami Airport Convention Center.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections #21 Understanding Grants for Artist with Joshua Kingston at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 7/15/14

Life Is Art  presents Art/Work Connections #21: Understanding Grants for Artist with Joshua Kingston at Eleazar Delgado Studio Tuesday, July 15, 2014. Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered  Understanding Grants for Artist.

About Joshua Kingston:
Joshua Kingston was raised in a military family, moving often and quickly learned to adapt and connect with people. He studied Theater, Music and Literature in college and has worked as a Vet Tech and a Software Developer before settling in to his true calling, writing. Always feeling the need to have more knowledge, he went back to school to obtain a Masters in Theology.

Today, he writes helps artists verbalize their art into statements and galleries develop catalog material while his passion is the challenge of grant writing for both individual artists, projects, and small/mid-sized Arts organizations.

About Eleazar Delgado Studio:
Originally conceived at our home, Eleazar Delgado Studio has always been the artist’s creative space. The idea grew into a gathering place for our friends, mostly artists in their own rights, to showcase their current work and preview concepts. We made it official in 2010 when we opened a public space in Wynwood. Today in addition to being Eleazar’s personal art studio, we host local talents and leaders who need a professional environment to showcase, educate, and enrich the community at large.

About the Art/Work Connections Program
The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more.

About Life Is Art, Inc.
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Next month Art/Work Connections on Contract Negotiation with RKE Law Group is August 12 at Kroma so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Tech Cocktail’s Miami Startup Mixology Book Launch Celebration at The Stage on 7/9/14

Tech Cocktail’s Miami Startup Mixology Book Launch Celebration at The Stage on Wednesday, July 9, 2014. We enjoyed a special Tech Cocktail Sessions event with the book launch of Startup Mixology, by Tech Cocktail’s Founder and CEO, Frank Gruber.  

{Please feel free to download and share.}





    

Photographs of Multichamber of Commerce World Cup Match Business Card Exchange on 7/9/14

Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce World Cup Match Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, July 9, 2014.  A welcome complimentary drink courtesy of Ron Barcelo.  The Chambers of Bolivia, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chili,  Doral, Downtown Miami & Brick, Ecuador,  Junior Chamber International, Haiti, Honduras, Medley, Mercosur, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater and Brickell Rotary Club celebrating yet another successful MultiChamber of Commerce event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of AFP Miami Wynwood Art Crawl at The Bakehouse Art Complex on 7/10/14

Association of Fundraising Professionals Miami Wynwood Art Crawl at The Bakehouse Art Complex on Thursday, July 10, 2014.  We enjoyed a wonderful evening of arts and networking featuring DJ Hank Justice, wine provided by Decopas, and catering from Premier Beverage Catering Services.  

 Association of Fundraising Professionals Miami Chapter Diversity Statement: Diversity in fundraising – Diversity is the seeking and achieving of a broad representation of experiences, perspectives, opinions and cultures. Inclusiveness is an essential source of vitality and strength for the effective pursuit of an organization’s mission.

  
Mission: To ensure that our AFP chapter reflects, represents and responds to the cultural diversity of the Miami-Dade community.
 
Vision: We envision a community of fundraising professionals where a commitment to diversity,
inclusiveness and justice transcends our differences.
 
Values: We believe that diversity, inclusiveness and understanding increase productivity, enrich problem-solving, and heighten creativity.
{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of THE INDIGENOUS Fashion, Food, Art, Music, CULTURE on 6/28/14

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon  of THE INDIGENOUS Fashion, Food, Art, Music, CULTURE at Hamilton On The Bay on Saturday, June 28, 2014.  An evening of embracing and unifying culture and diversity; An expressive celebration of the worlds hidden and most ancient roots, cultures, and languages. Go Green Fashionista will be sharing the wisdom of aboriginal people and tribes; highlighting art, music, food and fashion. The mission was for guests to be inspired while receiving knowledge of The Indigenous.

 

To see more of  Anthony Jordon‘s  work go to his flickr page or his facebook page.

Photographs of Miami’s Independent Thinkers Summer Art Series at The James Royal Palm on 7/1/14

Miami’s Independent Thinkers presents Summer Art Series  featuring local artist Ernesto Kunde at The James Royal Palm on  on Tuesday, July 1, 2014. We enjoyed amazing complimentary bites and cocktails from Florida Cookery.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Social Media Day Miami 2014 at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts on 6/29/14

Social Media Day Miami 2014 at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, June 29, 2014.  What a wonderful turn out. This years Social Media Day had many of Miami’s top social media influencers together to produce a one day conference. This was the 5th anniversary since Mashable started the event to recognize social media in all its forms. Miami has been building a strong social media community and it was great to see so many come together during this event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of the Miami Marine Stadium on 6/28/14

On Saturday, June 28, we were allowed to visit the Miami Marine Stadium as part of the Day of Art and Action hosted by Gloria Estefan. Did you know there is a campaign on to save and restore the stadium? Below are some hi-resolution photos of the stadium and the art there.

marinstadium062814-001

marinstadium062814-002

marinstadium062814-003

marinstadium062814-004

marinstadium062814-005

marinstadium062814-006

marinstadium062814-007

marinstadium062814-008

marinstadium062814-009

marinstadium062814-010

marinstadium062814-011

marinstadium062814-012

marinstadium062814-013

marinstadium062814-015

marinstadium062814-016

marinstadium062814-017

marinstadium062814-018

marinstadium062814-019

marinstadium062814-020

marinstadium062814-021

marinstadium062814-022

marinstadium062814-023

marinstadium062814-024

marinstadium062814-025

marinstadium062814-026

marinstadium062814-028

marinstadium062814-029

marinstadium062814-030

marinstadium062814-031

marinstadium062814-032

marinstadium062814-033

marinstadium062814-034

marinstadium062814-035

marinstadium062814-036

marinstadium062814-037

marinstadium062814-038

marinstadium062814-039

marinstadium062814-040

marinstadium062814-042

marinstadium062814-043

marinstadium062814-044

marinstadium062814-045

marinstadium062814-046

marinstadium062814-047

marinstadium062814-048

marinstadium062814-050

marinstadium062814-051

marinstadium062814-052

marinstadium062814-053

marinstadium062814-054

marinstadium062814-055

marinstadium062814-056

marinstadium062814-057

marinstadium062814-058

marinstadium062814-059

marinstadium062814-060

marinstadium062814-061

marinstadium062814-062

marinstadium062814-063

marinstadium062814-064

marinstadium062814-065

marinstadium062814-066

marinstadium062814-068

marinstadium062814-069

marinstadium062814-070

marinstadium062814-071

marinstadium062814-072

marinstadium062814-073

marinstadium062814-074

marinstadium062814-075

marinstadium062814-077

marinstadium062814-078

marinstadium062814-079

marinstadium062814-080

marinstadium062814-081

marinstadium062814-082

marinstadium062814-083

marinstadium062814-084

marinstadium062814-085

marinstadium062814-086

marinstadium062814-087

marinstadium062814-088

marinstadium062814-089

marinstadium062814-090

marinstadium062814-091

marinstadium062814-092

marinstadium062814-093

marinstadium062814-094

marinstadium062814-095

marinstadium062814-096

marinstadium062814-097

marinstadium062814-098

marinstadium062814-099

marinstadium062814-100

marinstadium062814-101

marinstadium062814-102

marinstadium062814-103

marinstadium062814-104

marinstadium062814-105

marinstadium062814-106

marinstadium062814-107

marinstadium062814-108

marinstadium062814-109

marinstadium062814-110

marinstadium062814-111

marinstadium062814-112

marinstadium062814-113

marinstadium062814-114

marinstadium062814-115

marinstadium062814-116

marinstadium062814-117

marinstadium062814-118

marinstadium062814-119

marinstadium062814-120

marinstadium062814-121

marinstadium062814-122

marinstadium062814-123

marinstadium062814-124

marinstadium062814-125

marinstadium062814-126

PRESS RELEASE
On Saturday, June 28, international superstar and leading Miami businesswoman Gloria Estefan will kick off a daylong celebration at Miami Marine Stadium. Estefan, a Trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation who was named the “Voice of Miami Marine Stadium” in May 2013, will be joined by representatives from the National Trust and Friends of Miami Marine Stadium to unveil several recent, high profile accomplishments in the campaign to restore the iconic stadium, including an announcement by Estefan herself.

A series of events will take place throughout the day following a 10:00 a.m. press conference, including:

The ART History Mural Project, for which nine world-renowned contemporary street artists will be at the stadium to create large-scale, site-specific murals. The project, curated by stencil artist and muralist Logan Hicks, features a roster of local and international street artists including Luis Berros, Doze Green, Elbow Toe, Evoca1, Ian Kuali’I, Joe Iurato, RISK, and Rone. Although closed to the general public, these incredible murals will be presented through extensive documentation, as well as an archival print release at www.arthistory2014.com. Proceeds from the sale of the prints will directly support the stadium’s restoration.

An exclusive Instagram contest hosted by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Space for this exclusive contest is limited to only 30 registrants, who will be selected by the National Trust based on their enthusiasm for taking photos of all the things that make Miami special—including its historic icons like Miami Marine Stadium. Contest winners will get to meet Gloria Estefan, interact with the nine artists of the ART History Mural Project, and explore the stadium with its architect, Hilario Candela. Visit www.savingplaces.org/marinestadium to register. The deadline to enter is Monday, June 23, at 5:00 p.m. EST.

The June 28 event comes at an important time for the stadium. In July of 2013, Miami’s City Commissioners voted 4 to 1 to give Friends of Miami Marine Stadium full control over the stadium and the surrounding site so they could develop a plan to renovate and re-open the facility. Per an agreement with the City of Miami, Friends of Miami Marine Stadium has until January 2015 to raise an estimated $30 million to restore the stadium, with $10 million of that either identified or committed.

About the National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded nonprofit organization that works to save America’s historic places. In 2012, the National Trust named Miami Marine Stadium to its growing portfolio of National Treasures – historic buildings, neighborhoods, communities, and landscapes across the country that are threatened and face an uncertain future. For more information, visit www.savingplaces.org.

About the ART History Mural Project
Miami Marine Stadium has unknowingly reinvented itself as an iconic venue for street artists, who have flocked to the site from around the world to paint it. These artists, who saw Miami Marine Stadium as a muse, are responsible for breathing life back into this architectural gem. The ART History Mural Project was created to acknowledge artists’ role in the story of Miami Marine Stadium. Existing murals have already been painted by Axel Void, Hox, Pixel Pancho, Stinkfish, Abstrk, and Tatiana Suarez. Artists will continue to paint over the summer of 2014, with another group of renowned international artists coming together on September 6, 2014. The ART History Mural Project will culminate in a print show at Miami’s Gregg Sheinbaum Gallery in September, and a final art show of original works in December during Art Basel. Support for the project has been provided by Liquitex, 1xRun, Crescent Cardboard, and the National Trust. For more information and to purchase prints benefiting the stadium’s restoration, visit www.arthistory2014.com.

Photographs of Borrowed Sugar Charity Auction at SuViche Wynwood on 6/26/14

Borrowed Sugar Charity Auction at SuViche Wynwood on Thursday, June 26, 2014.   All  proceeds from the auction go tobenefit the homeless shelter, Miami Rescue Mission.

Miami Rescue Mission, Inc. (MRM): MRM is a Florida 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. They provide food, shelter, recovery programs, and transitional housing at our three campuses in Miami, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach. The goal is to reach out to homeless and vulnerable members in our community to transform the lives of homeless men, women and children.

Who is Borrowed Sugar:  “Borrowed Sugar Events was to throw great parties in Miami that benefit our community. Each unique party has it’s own theme to create a memorable experience. We use our expertise to bring people together in an environment that facilitates social interaction. We have three categories of parties: Singles, Networking, and Fundraisers. We specialize in events for charity.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Coral Gables Restaurant Week Blogger’s Crawl by Mr Q 305

Recently, the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables invited Miami food bloggers to participate in a crawl of some of the restaurants participating in the hugely successful Coral Gables Restaurant Week, now in its seventh year.
The evening began with all the bloggers, more than sixteen of us, meeting at Swine Southern Table and Bar. There, we got to sample two of their signature drinks, the Swine Old-Fashioned: Bacon washed old overholt rye, maple syrup, house-made swine bitters and an Old Cuban: Eigth year old Bacardi, mint, lime, Delamotte  Champagne and angostura bitters. During cocktails they brought out the appetizer: Deviled Crab Hush Puppies with pickled celery and smoked trout roe. These Puppies were so full of flavor, I could’ve happily stay there just eating them the whole evening but, the best was yet to come, as an entrée we had the Smoked Brisket Steak covered with a delicious molasses glaze accompanied by stoneground grits, pickled corn and cheddar relish. This brisket was crisp on the outside and so moist on the inside, the meat just melted to the taste. I’ll be dreaming about it until I get back to Swine!
We had to move on…our next stop was Talavera Cocina Mexicana where they extended out the red carpet for us in typical Mexican hospitality fashion.
At Talavera Mexican Cuisine, the welcome cocktail was Pueblito Viejo: Corzo Reposado tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, sugar, crushed mint served over ice. It is refreshingly sweet and goes down so easy!. The menu featured an appetizer consisting of Gordita Conchinita Pibil: (pulled pork) in a corn masa tortilla with a dry rub of chiles and spices. The taste of toasted corn of the tortillas combined with the flavor of the tender piglet was so pleasing to the taste buds, add to that the hint of chiles and you have the perfect appetizer.
Next were Enchilada Suizas: pulled white meat chicken inside a corn tortilla with poblano cream sauce and tomatillo salsa, topped with Oaxaca cheese and baked, served with crema Mexicana and cilantro. Hot, chewy, soft and delcious!
The second entree was Camarones al Ajillo: sautéed shrimp in a garlic sauce with dried guajillo chiles served with rice and watercress. The shrimp were so fresh and they had just the right touch of garlic. The rice complemented the dish so very well.
For dessert it was Crepas de Cajeta: crepes covered in Cajeta served with walnuts and vanilla ice cream. If you haven’t had this dessert I urge to go to Talavera and try it. You’ll thank me later.
The portions at Talavera were very generous and we were beginning to exhibit signs of food exhaustion but we marched on…
The next one up was Divino Ceviche where they welcomed us with a that typical Peruvian drink known as the Pisco Sour: Pisco, lemon juice, sugar and  angostura bitters topped with a frothy egg white meringue sprinkled with cinnamon…ooh so good…! there were Camote (Sweet Potato) Chips ready to be dipped in Aji Amarillo or Salsa de Huacatay accompanied by Canchas (Roasted Corn).
The hot appetizer consisted of Pulpo (Octopus) in Salsa Anticuchera. The octopus was lightly crunchy with a very pleasing smoky flavor.  For entree we were served the Trio de Ceviches consisting of Ceviche Tradicional,  Ceviche Divino (the Chef’s specialty) and Ceviche al Olivo. These Ceviches are made with slices of fresh fish and or whole shrimp marinated lightly in lime juice and seasoned with Peruvian limo chili, fresh cilantro and onion; garnished with sweet potato and choclo (Peruvian giant corn), the Ceviche Divino also has mango and avocado. The ceviche is so good that one of the bloggers proclaimed “the best ceviche she had ever had”, I concur.
For dessert, Mousse de Maracuyá (Passion Fruit) and Mousse de Chirimoya (Custard Apple). These are delicate mousses with a refreshing tropical flavor.
From Divino Ceviche we were on to Tarpon Bend for a glass of prosecco and to sample their Braised Short Rib. These ribs are braised for four hours and they are all flavor.
Finally we ended the crawl at Cibo Wine Bar where they started with a wonderfully soft and fresh Burrata and robust yet light Prosciutto di Parma, followed by Arancini: Rice balls stuffed with ragu and melted mozzarella.
The Grilled Whole Octopus with mixed greens, diced tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice was amazing!
The Pappardelle with slow cooked lamb ragu covered with pecorino shavings was so delicate and yet robust that it didn’t matter how full I was, I still wanted more.
As if all that wasn’t enough they brought out a Black Tiger Shrimp in a wine garlic tomato sauce that was simply out of this world.
After an incredible twelve different courses, three dessert and five different drinks we were all exhausted, happy and ready to go home. It was an incredible experience!
You are still in time to try out the Gables Restaurant Week Menu but you better hurry because it ends June 29th.

Catch up with Mr Q 305 on faceboook   Twitter   Instagram

Here are the images:

Photographs of #S.O.S. Venezuela presented by Arte Venezolano en Miami on 6/24/14

#S.O.S. Venezuela presented by Arte Venezolano en Miami on Tuesday, June 24, 2014.  Arte Venezolano en Miami had a fundraiser for S.O.S. Venezuela with more than 50 artists donated their artistic interpretations created on plates that will be sold and or auctioned. Sales proceeds will benefit the Venezuela Awareness Foundation, a non-for-profit human rights organization based in Miami.

Arte Venezolano en Miami | 7432 SW 42 St | Miami 33155 | 786.338.3957.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Downtown Summer Luau Block Party on 6/20/14

Downtown Summer Luau Block Party on Friday, June 20, 2014.  The Downtown Miami Partnership (DMP) along with Elwoods Gastro Pub and Tokyo Blu together brought you the Downtown Summer Luau. The Luau is to highlight all the restaurants and businesses in the neighborhood surrounding NE 3rd avenue and to provide residents and workers in the area with an opportunity to enjoy Downtown while getting to know the neighborhood.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Chilean Wine Seminar and Tasting Hosted by ProChile in Brickell

ProChile Wine Seminar 19

Yesterday evening, the ProChile Trade Commission in Miami hosted a Chilean Wine Seminar and tasting at the Conrad Hotel in Brickell. Chilean Winemaker Santiago Margozzini from Montgras Estates and Master Sommelier Fred Dexheimer conducted an educational presentation titled Chile: Land of Diversity and a Paradise for Viticulture. My wife and I arrived (on time) to a beautifully presented room set up to accommodate 60 or more guests interested in this stop in ProChile’s Chilean Wine Tour.

Santiago went through a slide presentation that highlighted just how diverse a country Chile really is, from the temperature to the rainfall to the geographic landscape to the soil. All of those factors have an extremely important impact on the country’s 16 wine-growing regions. And though diverse, the climate and isolation of the country is ideal for growing grapes. In addition to gentle winters and moderate summers, the lack of phylloxera, hail and bird attacks also contributes to the success of Chile’s growth in wine making over the past several decades. Twenty years ago, there were seven wine regions; today there are 16. Santiago explained that though it took some convincing, the regions are now classified in three groups based on the characteristics of the wines. That was done so wine makers could easily speak about their wines in such a way that would help promote their vineyards in a meaningful way. Those classifications are Costa, Entre Cordilleras, and Andes.

That’s when we began tasting the eight different wines in front of us, each chosen to represent the different viticulture regions of Chile. Santiago and Fred both led the tasting, speaking about the wineries and characteristics of each wine and how it was made. We started with a Sauvignon Blanc from Siegel made in the coastal area of Leyda. It was explained that the cold temperatures from the Pacific Ocean were key to growing this grape to perfection. Sauvignon Blanc is the #1 exported grape variety from Chile.

 

We were then asked to compare two different coastal Pinot Noirs from Valdivieso and Tabali. While I’m not exactly a wine expert, it was not difficult to see and taste the differences. Fred explained that one of the areas had more variations in temperature and wind than the other. In addition, the soils in the two regions are very different and impart different characteristics to the wines. So same grape but different outcomes.  Pretty cool!

ProChile Wine Seminar 2

Fred continued “geeking out” on soil as we tried a Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Morande, grown in the “alluvial” soil of Maipo, representative of the foothills of the Andes. We were then given a Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec blend from Viu Manent which sparked a little comparison to the Malbecs of Argentina. We were told that some of the best Malbecs in the world come from this Chilean region called the Colchagua Valley. However, these wines are very different than what you would find in neighboring Argentina as the climate and soil and age of their vines are not the same.

Finally we arrived to a wine made by Santiago, MontGras Antu Syrah. “This is the best wine of the night, hahaha,” quipped Santiago. He explained this was grown on a famous hill in the volcanic soil of Colchagua and would be classified as an Entre Cordilleras wine. My wife and I actually agreed that the sweet fruity aroma and delicious flavors made this our favorite of the evening. Also from Colchagua, we tasted a Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend from Montes. Fred said this is a very well-known wine in the United States.

Our final wine of the seminar was another from MontGras, their Reserva Carmenere. We were told that Carmenere grapes are unique to Chile, though originally a French grape variety that was killed by phylloxera. Apparently, Chilean wine makers thought they were making Merlots though it was discovered that in fact it was a Merlot/Carmenere blend. Today, the best Carmenere wines are grown in sandy soil in a warm and sunny climate that allows the grapes to grow to a very ripe stage. This ensures a wine with round tannins and uniquely spicy characteristics. We liked this wine a lot too.

The evening then shifted to a tasting with many Chilean wineries. We tasted some additional wines and learned about some of the goals that each winery was pursuing. For some, it was just to get their name out in front of importers. We ate some cheese and fruits and hors d’oeuvres and mingled. It was an educational evening and fun to learn about one of Chile’s most important products!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

Photographs of Miami Mixer: Art Meets Nature at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 6/20/14

Miami Mixer: Art Meets Nature at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Friday, June 20, 2014.   This is a monthly group show which happens on the 3rd Friday of every month & hosted at Eleazar Delgado Studio in Downtown Miami.

Artist Lineup for this month was Jaime Ferreyros, Kelan Putbrese, Allenn Montilla, Michael Nelson, Tim Roberts, Anthony Jordon, Terry Arroyo Mulrooney, Sheila Fraga, Eladio Ramos, Alejandro Posada, Jake Cordero and Giselle Barroso.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 15 Pop-Up Social at Batch Gastropub on 6/17/14

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon of  Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 15 Pop-Up Social at Batch Gastropub on Tuesday, June 17, 2014.

Featured Artists: Terry Arroyo Mulrooney, Valeria Actis, Mitchell Shulman (MIOWSHU)

Featured Charities: Dream Defenders, Conscious Acts of Kindness

About the River Of Art Program
The River Of Art is a monthly business networker and art showcase combined. We provide more than just a platform for professionals to get together, discuss business strategies and make connections, we create synergies to help promote business by including an amazing art show of local talent!

About Life Is Art
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is July 22nd at Le Koke so save the date!

To see more of  Anthony Jordon‘s  work go to his flickr page or his facebook page.

 

Photograhs of Bird Road Art Walk on 6/21/14

Bird Road Art Walk on Saturday, June 21, 2014.  What a great wonderful art walk, this art walk is mostly artist studios, so you get to meet the artist, ask them questions and get to see the space where they create their art.   Click here for a list of the participating Bird Road Art District Studios and see you all next month

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami New Times Hosts Best Of Miami(R) Release Party at The Rusty Pelican on 6/19/14

Miami New Times Hosts Best Of Miami(R) Release Party at The Rusty Pelican on Thursday, June 19, 2014.  Miami New Times hosted the Best Of Miami® Release Party to celebrate this year’s winners. We all enjoyed wonderful food provided by the Rusty Pelican, and sipped on specially crafted cocktails by Voli Vodka, Purity Vodka, Miami Club Rum, Souverain Wine, Castello di Gabbiano, Veuve de Vernay, Zignum Mezcal, Barbancourt Rhum, Vizcaya Rum, Tanduay Asian Rum, Hierbas Ibicencas, Barton & Guestier, and many more! Played video games provided by 8bitLexicon.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Quest Work Space in Brickell Grand Opening on 6/19/14

Quest Work Space in Brickell Grand Opening on Thursday, June 19, 2104.  Quest has several locations around Miami and offer quite a few options, full time office of all different sizes and virtual offices.

ABOUT Quest Work Space: “We all quest for success, yet every individual is unique. Your workspace needs to support that quest! Your executive office suite needs to support that journey! Our office centers attract likeminded, successful, high energy professionals and virtual workers that connect, work and play together, creating a vibrant and supportive Quest Community.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 15 Pop-Up Social at Batch Gastropub on 6/17/14

Soul Of Miami and Life Is Art present the River Of Art 15 Pop-Up Social at Batch Gastropub on Tuesday, June 17, 2014.

Featured Artists: Terry Arroyo Mulrooney, Valeria Actis, Mitchell Shulman (MIOWSHU)

Featured Charities: Dream Defenders, Conscious Acts of Kindness

About the River Of Art Program
The River Of Art is a monthly business networker and art showcase combined. We provide more than just a platform for professionals to get together, discuss business strategies and make connections, we create synergies to help promote business by including an amazing art show of local talent!

About Life Is Art
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is July 22nd at Le Koke so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The GALLERY with Bernice Steinbaum benefiting Art Studio Miami at LMNT on 6/14/14

TheGALLERY with Bernice Steinbaum benefiting Art Studio Miami at LMNT on Saturday, June 14, 2014.  Renowned Gallerist and Art Curator, Bernice Steinbaum reveiwed and installed the art presentation which celebrated the works of Art Educators & Teaching Artists. This event brought together a collection of exceptional local Art Studio teaching artists, university arts professors, new student arts educators, along with an entertaining evening of music, spoken word & poetry, cocktails provided by Byejoe.

Art Studio Miami Mission: “Is to EMPOWER YOUNG MINDS by providing Creative-Holistic Art Integration (C.H.A.I) LIFE ARTS PROGRAMS to youth in need. The mission of Art Studio Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization, is to empower young minds by providing a safe location where youth are inspired and guided by artists, teachers, professionals and mentors who support the student’s educational, personal and professional career development through creative-holistic art integration (C.H.A.I.) LIFE ARTS.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Downtown Full Moon Party 3rd Year Anniversary at The Social Lubricant on 6/13/14

Downtown Full Moon Party 3rd Year Anniversary at The Social Lubricant on Friday, June 13, 2014.

The “downtown FULL MOON party” happens every month around the Full Moon Calendar dates (Rain or Shine) at different venues around Downtown Miami and Broward / Palm Beach areas.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections #20 Social Networking with John Mahoney at SeaFair Megayacht on 6/10/14

Life Is Art  presents Art/Work Connections #20: Social Networking with John Mahoney at SeaFair Megayacht Tuesday, June 10, 2014. Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered Creating Real Relationships through Social Media.

About John Mahoney
Socialmedia305: specializing in strategic social relations and consulting, radio interviews and advertising, social media consulting and targeted marketing, hashtag management, keyword tracking, radio interviews and event marketing. John Peter Mahoney, the founder of SocialMedia305, serves as the Twitter voice for more than a few fun brands and individuals using Social Media. Always using proper etiquette, building a targeted fan-base, and marketing their specific needs whether it be sales, publicity, or brand awareness, either way, it is a fierce combination of communication and strategy. Follow John @socialmedia305

About SeaFair MegaYacht
Cruise, shop and dine aboard the uber-luxe 228-foot megayacht, SeaFair, offering the ultimate excursions where sea and sky converge with the glamour of iconic Miami. Enjoy four passenger decks with open-air sky deck dining, an elegant glass-walled club lounge, champagne and caviar bar and three decks of unique shops and galleries offering luxury must-haves including art, fine jewelry, designer trunk shows and more. International cuisine, tapas, fine wines and Champagne combined with live music ranging from jazz to island rhythms tops off this truly unique Miami experience.

About the Art/Work Connections Program
The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more.

About Life Is Art, Inc.
Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Caribbean-American Heritage Month Kick-off at Pérez Art Museum Miami on 6/5/14

Caribbean-American Heritage Month Kick-off at Pérez Art Museum Miami on Thursday, June 5, 2014.  In  honor of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, PAMM teamed up with host Neki Mohan of Channel 10 News, Caribbean-American Heritage Florida, and The Rhythm Foundation. Celebrate Caribbean culture with PAMM’s “Caribbean: Crossroads of the World” exhibition and dance under the stars to a live performance by Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, who presented a preview of their upcoming Colors of the Caribbean Festival performance.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Taste of The Gables on 6/5/14 by Mr Q 305

Taste of the Gables was back in a big way this past Thursday to kick off “Coral Gables Restaurant Week” at the Westin Colonnade. More than 20 Coral Gables Restaurant Week newcomers and veterans (among them previously reviewed in this column: Ikura Sushi Lounge, La Talavera and Divino Ceviche) prepared their best dishes and battled to be voted “Best Taste of the Gables”, the winning vote went to Uvaggio, 70 Miracle Mile. The event was presented by Bacardi USA Inc., there was plenty of food, drinks and activities, absolutely no one left with an empty stomach!

Mr Q 305 on facebookTwitterInstagram

Photograghs of Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at La Gazzeta on 6/4/14

Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce networker at  La Gazzeta on Wednesday, June 4, 2014.  The Chambers of Bolivia, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chili,  Doral, Downtown Miami & Brick, Ecuador,  Junior Chamber International,  Haiti, Honduras, Medley, Mercosur,  Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater and Brickell Rotary Club celebrating yet another successful MultiChamber of Commerce event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of La Tagliatella by Mr Q 305

La Tagiatella…by the time you finish reading the name, as you enter through the glass doors, you have already stepped a few centuries back in time into a beautiful northern Italian castle.
The decor is simply breathtaking. Nothing has been overlooked in La Tagliatella’s rococo inspired interior. There is so much to see here that you could spend several days just discovering new details…
and then…there’s the food…
But before we get to that, keep in mind that La Tagliatella is part of a worldwide chain of more than one hundred and fifty restaurants. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that they must be doing something right…and that…of course…is the food…
The Handcrafted Meatballs, made with their own home-made sausage and beef, seasoned with garlic, oregano, parsley and Parmesan cheese were juicy and cooked to perfection. They came with spicy Napoletano and pesto rosse panna sauce.
The Arancini, which are risotto balls, filled with mozzarella cheese, breaded and deep fried to resemble small oranges (hence the name) were crisp with a light crunchy exterior. They were complemented with a spicy tomato sauce.
Mozzarella Carpaccio, consisted of imported Italian buffalo mozzarella sliced on top of crushed tomato with fresh anchovies, olive paste and fresh basil. Now for those of you who are staunch anti-anchovies militants, I would strongly advise to try this Carpaccio, the buffalo mozzarella’s soft, moist, somewhat granular, semi-elastic texture and its mild yet slightly sour taste combine to give the fresh anchovies a delicate, natural flavor which will take your eating experience into the fifth taste (beyond salty, sweet, sour and bitter), the one called “umami”. Try it, you won’t regret it.
Now, in a place called “the noodle” you know the pasta is going to be outstanding. The Pappardelle with Parmigiano and Truffle which are wide egg noodles, sautéed with truffle sauce, Parmesan cheese, topped with fried egg and black caviar did not dissapoint.
Branzino alla Mugnaia is Mediterranean sea bass, cooked with a lemon butter asparagus sauce. Served with roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus and arugula salad. This sea bass had a perfect flaky, buttery texture and a delicate well seasoned taste.
To finish an incredible meal, the Bocconcino, a fresh cheese cake with custard and the Tre Bombe al Cioccolato, a trio of chocolate and hazelnut semifreddo with chocolate sauce, were the perfect sonata.
La Tagliatella
301 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(786) 464-0516
Mr Q 305 on FacebookTwitterInstagram
Here are the images:

Photographs of A Night at the SeaFair Yacht on 5/30/14

A Night at the SeaFair Yacht on Friday, May 30, 2014.  Work of Art Gallery & Framing  presented a collection of contemporary art.   The collection showcased seven established artists: Armando Colls, Jorge Santos, Elger Aragundi, Jose Agustin, Gonzalez Grillo, Yasser Piña Peña, Arnold Miranda & Miakel Martinez.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Celebrating Lee Brian Schrager’s Fried & True Cook Book at Broken Shaker on 5/30/14

Celebrating Lee Brian Schrager’s Fried & True Cook Book at Broken Shaker on Friday, May 30, 2014. During this happy hour we enjoyed recipes from the Fried & True Cook Book which has more than 50 recipes for American’s best fried chicken and wonderful sides.  The recipes we got to enjoyed were: Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Fried Chicken & Watermelon Salad, Chef Dale Talde’s Kung Pao Chicken Wings, Biscuit Love Truck’s East Nasty Biscuit Sandwich, Loveless Cafe’s Hash Brown Casserole and Mary Mac’s Tea Room Tomato Pie.  All were so delicious and I can’t wait to try some of the recipes myself.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photograph of SOSVenezuela Fundraiser at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 5/29/14

SOSVenezuela Fundraiser at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Thursday, May 29, 2014.    This wonderful event was to raise funds for the Venezuelan Students Legal Aid Fund through Venezuela Awareness Foundation.  Venezuelan students have been protesting for over 100 days, many of them have been detained and released under civil rights limitations.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of For the Love of Art Charity Auction and Honoree Celebration on 5/29/14

For the Love of Art Charity Auction and Honoree Celebration at University of Miami Life Science Technology Park on Thursday, May 29, 2014.  The Education Fund’s annual charity auction, “For the Love of Art,” showcased more than 180 original pieces of artwork created by Miami-Dade County public school students and teachers. This Children’s Trust sponsored event showcases artwork crafted from materials found at The Education Fund’s Ocean Bank Center for Educational Materials, a warehouse with donated supplies where teachers can shop for free.  Also, there was more than 100 luxury items, performances by the New World School of the Arts Jazz Band, an open bar by Bacardi, and a Whole Foods Market epicurean feast and the emcee for the night was CBS4 anchor Irika Sargent.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs by John Christie of River of Art on 5/20/14

Photographs by John Christie of Life Is Art presents River Of Art #14 Showcase and Networker at Porcao Farm to Grill on Tuesday, May 20, 2014.

Featured Artists: Jonathan Brooks, Kelan K. Putbrese and Edwive Seme

Featured Charity:Net Impact and Badges of Courage Foundation

Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is June 17th at Batch Gastropub so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Soul Of Miami presents River Of Art #14 Showcase and Networker at Porcao Farm to Grill on 5/20/14

Life Is Art presents River Of Art #14 Showcase and Networker at Porcao Farm to Grill on Tuesday, May 20, 2014.

Featured Artists: Jonathan Brooks, Kelan K. Putbrese and Edwive Seme

Featured Charity:Net Impact and Badges of Courage Foundation

 Supported by Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – You and I Are Love –  Soul Of Miami

Next month River of Art is June 17th at Batch Gastropub so save the date!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The Pinnacle Collection Fashion Show at The Temple House on 5/17/14

The Pinnacle Collection Fashion Show at The Temple House on Saturday, May 17, 2014.  The Pinnacle Collection featured an beautiful runway showcase presenting Michael Costello’s latest collection and brand new designs.

“Michael Costello, is a self-taught prodigy who has created an empire on making women feel beautiful. Costello joined the cast of Project Runway Season 8 and All Stars Season 1. He was a finalist in both seasons and even made the cover of the NY Times for Mercedes Benz Fashion week. His publications didn’t stop there. He was the only designer from Project Runway to be featured in Time magazine and has been featured in Elle, Marie Claire, Vogue Italy, Instyle and many other fashion magazines. Costello’s extravagant red carpet designs are worn by royalty and celebrities alike including Beyoncé’s Grammy ensemble voted best-dressed by every fashion publication and media outlet. His dresses worn by artists were immediately displayed in the Grammy Museum. MT Costello is the awesome line that Michael has with Stephanie Costello (his cousin). With complementary yet different aesthetics, both lines have set a new standard for fashion. Michael & Stephanie Costello have been dressing celebrities such as Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Jessie J, Shakira, Michelle Williams and many more, with their empire only continuing to grow. The Pinnacle Collection will feature an elaborate pop-up shop and 40 piece runway showcase presenting Michael Costello’s latest collection and brand new designs.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of MiamiMixer at Eleazar Delgado Studio on 5/16/14

MiamiMixer at Eleazar Delgado Studio on Friday, May 16, 2014.  Urban environments are constantly shifting their purpose and focus, sometimes organically and other times by force. What comes to mind when you think of Urban Rebirth? Eight talented artists step up to the plate & make a strong statement on this subject matter.

Artist Lineup:  Joanne Caballero, Wayne Dollemore, Joan Futscher, Jane Harris, Helen Kagan, Tim Roberts, Annie Y. Saldaña and Robin White.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Big Night in Little Haiti at Little Haiti Cultural Center on 5/16/14

Big Night In Little Haiti at Little Haiti Cultural Center on Friday,  Friday, May 16, 2014. May is Haitian Heritage Month, featuring the rasin (roots) group Boukman Eksperyans in concert. The exhibition in the gallery was Haiti by Design, presented with the Haitian Cultural Alliance. Haitian cuisine by Leela’s Lakay and Prestige Beer and Clairin Rum from Haiti at the bar.

Wow what a wonderful evening, the music was amazing and a awesome crowd everyone dancing and have a wonderful time.  Love this event…Big Night In Little Haiti is every third Friday, if you have not been you really should go.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of SMCSF – Speed Marketing Roundtables at R House on 5/15/14

SMCSF – Speed Marketing Roundtables at R House on Thursday, May 15, 2014.   This  event combines the executive roundtable with speed networking for a dynamic and fast-paced conversation. Eachroundtable discussion was lead by the following:

PR/News: Christine de la Huerta & Maite Velez-Couto
Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Michael Schott
Social Media Strategy: Gabriela Guzman & Liza Walton
Content Marketing: Marc R. Enriquez
Paid Media: Nate Mendenhall
Email: Sandi Abbott
Branding/Creative: Mich Elle Dow & Christy Vidal
Event Marketing: JennyLee Molina & Mabel De Beunza
Personal Branding: Nancy Richmond
Blogging: Blanca Stella Mejia

Each roundtable rotated every 20 minutes, giving you the opportunity to participate in 4 topics of your choice throughout the meetup.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce Networker at Sea Level at The Clinton Hotel on 5/7/14

Fabulous Miami Multichamber of Commerce networker at  Sea Level at The Clinton Hotel on Wednesday, May 7, 2014.  The Chambers of Bolivia, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chili,  Doral, Downtown Miami & Brick, Ecuador,  Junior Chamber International,  Haiti, Honduras, Medley, Mercosur,  Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater and Brickell Rotary Club celebrating yet another successful MultiChamber of Commerce event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Luxury Italian Kitchen Brand Veneta Cucine Revealed Newly Renovated Showroom With Chic Relaunch Event

Italian Staple Hosted Unveiling Event of North Miami Showroom

MIAMI – April 29, 2014 – On Thursday, April 24, the internationally-acclaimed luxury Italian kitchen brand Veneta Cucine unveiled its newly renovated showroom with a chic relaunch event. The 2,000-square-foot space was revealed among 300 guests in an evening entailing Italian design and innovation, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.  The much-anticipated event featured a live cooking demonstration by co-host and renowned Chef Philippe Fiore, who has been the private chef of A-list celebrities, such as Julio Iglesias, Chayanne, Mel Gibson and Shakira, to name a few.

“We are elated to show our newly remodeled showroom which has undergone a complete floor-to-ceiling transformation,” says Corrado Bonanno, store and design manager for Veneta Cucine. “Since introducing the brand to the US in 2004, Veneta Cucine continues to flourish thanks to the unflagging support from our consumers.”

Attendees were among the first to view Veneta Cucine’s luxe kitchens showcasing LED-backlit Onyx counter tops by Crystaline Stone and quartz counter tops by Caesarstone. Additional sponsors included Bang & Olufsen, Nespresso, FIAT of North Miami and Italian Prosecco wines by PW Wine Distributors.

Guests received goody bags and had the chance to win gifts by Bang & Olufsen and Nespresso.

The showroom is located at 2020 NE 163 Street, Suite 100 North Miami Beach, FL 33162.

About Veneta Cucine

Designed with contemporary flair, Veneta Cucine accentuates the appeal of any interior with effortless ease. Internationally-recognized, Veneta Cucine has a well-established reputation for its foundation on functionality, ergonomic designs, state-of-the-art technology and luxe appeal. The Italian company is now a leading brand throughout Europe and a staple for global consumers who choose “Made in Italy” brands. Backed up by a highly developed business sense, Veneta Cucine manages an extraordinary wide-ranging production with high quality standards, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology and the most skilled forms of craftsmanship. Reliability and beauty are the values that distinguish a range divided into areas of style that look to the most recent aesthetic forms and evolved functions, while remaining true to the heritage of traditional quality. For more information about Veneta Cucine, please visit www.venetacucineus.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Fonticiella
SpinHouse PR
786.246.2953
Michelle@spinhouse-pr.com

Photographs of Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections #19: Copyright and Art with Ted VanCleave at Blu Moon Studio on 5/13/14

Life Is Art presents Art/Work Connections #18:#19: Copyright and Art with Ted VanCleave at Blu Moon Studio Tuesday, May 13, 2014. Art/Work Connections is a monthly series of seminars presented by Life Is Art featuring business professionals speaking on a variety of topics vital to the success of working artists. This month we covered one of the scariest topics for many artists, copyright.

Ted VanCleave is an artist, writer, entrepreneur and artist rights advocate. His artworks can be found in collections across the US as well as internationally. He is represented by galleries in Switzerland, San Francisco, NYC, Palm Beach & Boca Raton. Ted is also co-founder of ImageRights International. ImageRights International is spearheading the global fight against the infringement of copyrighted visual works for commercial photographers. Through its services, the company vets, identifies and manages infringement claims on behalf of commercial photographers, artists, photo agencies and publishers. As a website creator, Ted’s award-winning website, The Totally Absurd Inventions, has enjoyed more than 60 million readers since it’s launch in August, 1997. www.imagerights.com

Blu Moon Studio is an artspace dedicated to bringing creative expression to the community with classes, workshops, exhibits , and original art. Founded in 2008 by owner and resident artist, Sheri Friedman , Blu Moon is conveniently located in the heart of artistically historic Coconut Grove. If you want to create art, see art, or collect art.. Blu Moon is the place to be.
Blu Moon Studio of Art. www.artclassesinmiami.com

The Art/Work Connections program is a monthly series of business seminars held at galleries and art spaces around South Florida targeted at artists and those working in the arts. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from them. Business professionals are brought in to cover a wide variety of topics including health care, financial planning, contract negotiation, copyright law, portfolio development, social media, marketing and much more. www.awc.lifeisartfest.org

Life Is Art is a Florida-based 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to creating positive change in the community with the arts and culture through events and education. We give South Florida artists and civic leaders the tools to thrive and grow, while enhancing the lives of those living in our area. www.lifeisartfest.org

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Cordoba Medieval Street Fair on 5/4/14

Cordoba Medieval Street Fair in Miami Shores on Sunday, May 4, 2014.  As part of the Opening Weekend festivities of Everybody Drinks the Same Water, Miami Theater Center hosted a family-friendly, four-block-long street fair in Miami Shores. Inspired by medieval Córdoba, the street fair will feature jugglers, flamenco and belly dancers, stilt performers, a contortionist, artists, live drummers and musicians, craftspeople, food trucks, face painting, and a parade that will showcase the cast of Everybody Drinks the Same Water

“EVERYBODY DRINKS THE SAME WATER begins as a Christian King has just taken control of the city of Cordoba, Spain, ending more than 500 years of Islamic rule. Moments after entering the castle, the new ruler drinks a glass of water and becomes violently ill. His family accuses the Muslim community of attempting to assassinate him, but the picture gets murkier with reports of Jews, Muslims, and other Christians getting sick. Evidently, the entire public water supply has been poisoned. Fear, anger, and suspicion infect the town. Frustrated by their elders’ inability to see beyond the finger pointing, three teenagers of different faiths decide to work together to unravel the mystery. Add to the mix inter-religious flirtations with potentially fatal consequences, and you get an engaging look at the past that teaches powerful lessons about the present.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of You And I Are Love Pop Up Art Show At TSL Lounge on 5/3/14

You and I are Love Pop Up Art Show at TSL Lounge on Saturday, May 3, 2014.

Featured Artist:  Sean Was Here, Nate Dee, Ingrid Yuzly Mathurin, Marie Kolbert, Ivan Roque, Mark Spoon Hill, Miss Lushy, Xavier Herran aka Scapetron, Carlos Alejandro, Keyani Watkins, Penny Fedor and HecOne Love.

Live Painting by:Claudia La Bianca, Jake Cordero, Aquarela, Melissa Rios, Chy Tea, Miss Lushy, Scapetron, Marvin Delgado and  Slax.

Artist Installments: Jackie Colome

Performance Arts: Jean Mi with Poncili Creacion Presenting:

“Shadows In The Field Of Dreams : A Shadow Puppet Theatre Performance”

Timothy Damien Foster (Performance Magician)

Featured Music: Master Feathers and META

Featured Visual Arts: [PASD] Sean Was Here

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Friendly Competition for a GOOD cause at Broken Shaker on 5/1/14

Friendly Competition for a GOOD cause at Broken Shaker on Thursday, May 1, 2014.  Friends Fun Wine In A Can™ presented a Mix-ology competition, art and music benefit event.

A Great Cause and a Great Time benefiting Camillus House. ”

Music by Zoel and also an amazing art installation on Style Mafia Collection pieces hosted by Simonett Pereira, and curated by Yess Miakoda and Justin Hamel.

The collection introduces artists: Sabrina Yanguas, Gabriel Gimenez“GG”, Marcos Conde, Ivan Roque, Aquarela Sabol, Yuhmi Collective and Yuzly.

These remarkable works of were auctioned off with the proceeds benefiting Camillus House.  Camillus House mission: “Following the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, the mission of Camillus House is to provide Christian hospitality and respect for life through direct services of food, clothing, shelter, addiction counseling, behavioral health and job training, and health care to the poor and homeless of South Florida. We join in faith to facilitate the unfolding of God’s providential plan in every aspect of our organization. Our readiness to meet the complex needs and concerns of our homeless population identifies us as a mission of hope.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Wynwood Life: Cultural Street Festival on 4/27/14

Wynwood Life: Cultural Street Festival on Sunday, April 27, 2014.  What a great festival so much wonderful art, music and great people.

Location: 6th Ave. between 22nd and 24th streets.

Dates and Times: Friday, April 25th, 2014 5pm – 11pm, Saturday, April 26th, 2014 12pm – 11pm and Sunday, April 27th, 2014 12pm – 11pm.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Organizers of Wynwood Life couldn’t be happier. The street festival that promised to fill the street of Wynwood’s 6th Avenue with art and music lovers drew close to 18,000 people over the course of three days. Wynwood Life street fest over-delivered on what it promised in the areas of art, music, fashion and fun! “Lots of cool people. Lots of great vibe. Art was created, showed and sold. Music was danced to and fashion was strutted. We were proud to have Trek6 involved as our first poster artists. Wynwood Life is here to stay, and we hope to see everyone back next year,” said Tony Albelo, Wynwood Life organizer.

In the spirit of showcasing local talent, the festival featured Miami style bloggers, who turned heads during their own fashion show hosted by Kelly Saks. On Saturday night, the Peroni Art & Fashion Stage featured a bathing suit fashion show hosted by Annie Vazquez. Sunday night’s show was put on by Style Mafia, Jane Rose and Miami fashion blogger Maya King.

People came from all over South Florida to see the 11 live art displays curated by WynwoodMap.com, which featured graffiti artists including Gons One w/ SSK, Luis Berros, Diana Contreras and Luis Valle. What they got was all 11 plus a bonus live art display from DeepInPaint body painter, Shannon De Freitas.

Baloji, the Congolese-Belgium hip hop artists, who performed on Friday night, was a total hit, with thousands of new fans jamming to his contagious rhythm. It was standing room only on Saturday night with Problem Kids rocking the house, and on Sunday, Suénalo brought their fan base with their eclectic hip hop, Spanish infused vibe to the stage.

To close the festival, Wynwood Life had a music and art mashup that featured DJ Mr. Pauer, Miami’s Latin Grammy® nominated artist/producer, on stage while graffiti artist Hec One Love painted in front of the stage to the beat of his music. Hec One Love is well known for collaborating with Trek6 on the mural “Lovism”. Meanwhile over at the Peroni Art & Fashion stage, an impromptu collaborative painting took place between Kazilla and Coinslot, making this festival an eye-catching experience.

Wynwood Life Street Festival took place on 6th Avenue, between 22nd and 24th Streets in Wynwood the weekend of April 25th. For more information, go to www.wynwoodlife.com. To catch the latest news, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WynwoodLife, or follow them on Twitter and Instagram at @WynwoodLife.

Photographs of La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup X on 4/27/14

La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup X on Sunday, April 27, 2014.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

PRESS RELEASE
The 2014 La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup X, the world’s largest and most prestigious Beach Polo competition, culminated on Sunday, April 27th with an exciting men’s final that marked the tournament’s Ten Year Anniversary, a decade of world class cavalry and social fun in the sun.

Thursday, April 24th opened with a series of hard fought matches during the competition’s first day of the La Martina South Beach Women’s Polo Cup VI, as female teams battled it out to claim the prestigious title.

The eight teams of women, consisting of players from all over the world, competed in two divisions of play for the sixth consecutive year with the team from La Martina (Scarlet Davenport, Maggie McNamara and Laura Willson) taking top honors in Division One with a 2-1 win over the Eden Roc/Cheeki team (Kaila Doud, Slaney O’Hanlon and Lynn O’Connor). Doud was named MVP while Laura Willson’s “Little Joe” received Best Playing Pony honors.

FontaineBleau Aviation (Lynda Mariano, Sabina Barnett and Kerstie Allen) won Division Two in convincing fashion, in a 7-1 defeat of the Jet Blue team (Coco Smith, Bobette Martin and Leah Masters). Kerstie Allen scored all seven goals for FontaineBleau Aviation to earn MVP honors in her division, with her horse “Kai” taking Best Playing Pony honors.

The opening match of the tenth annual La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup men’s competition on Friday, April 26th saw a parity in the 2:00pm match with The Raleigh team representing Pakistan beating the La Martina team, representing Argentina, in the final seconds, 11-10. Heightening the excitement on the day, the 3:00pm match up had the Yellow Cab team, representing Russia, defeating the talented Metropolitan by COMO team, representing USA, in a triple overtime shoot out, resulting in a 7-6 score. In the final game of the day, the Merchant Hub team, representing Brazil, saw Luis Escobar scoring nine goals, including a pair of 2-pointers, for a 10-8 victory over the Eden Roc/La Herradura team, representing Mexico.

Some fast paced action on the sands of Miami Beach on Saturday set the scene for Sunday’s finals of the 2015 La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup with the team from The Raleigh Hotel, representing Pakistan (2-0), and the team from Yellow Cab, representing Russia (2-0) making their way to the finals of the competition’s 10 Year Anniversary.

Pakistan (Bash Kazi, Juan Monteverde and Brandon Phillips) opened Saturday’s action with an 8-7 win over a plucky Metropolitan by COMO team, representing USA (Lance Vetter, Guille Usandizaga and John Gobin), winning their second match in two days and securing a place in the finals. In the day’s second game, the team from Yellow Cab, representing Russia (Tyler Garber, Tavi Usandizaga and Sebastian Merlos) spanked the Eden Roc team, representing Mexico 13-8. It was Russia’s second win that paved the way for their appearance in Sunday’s title game.

The La Martina team, representing Argentina (MZ. Kazi, David Tafuri, Carlitas Gracida and Tommy Biddle) upset the team from Merchant Hub, representing Brazil (Tommy Kato, Pelan Escapite and Luis Escobar) run for the title by holding on for a 7-6 win in the final seconds of play.

Fifty-two chukkers of Polo on the beach ended with a flourish on Sunday afternoon as the Yellow Cab team representing Russia (Tyler Garber, Tavi Usandizaga and Sebastian Merlos) scooped an impressive 12-5 win over The Raleigh team representing Pakistan (Bash Kazi, Juan Monteverde and Brandon Phillips) in the final of the 2014 La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup. MVP Sebastian Merlos set the pace for Russia’s Yellow Cab with nine goals, including a two-pointer from one end of the arena, to lead all scoring.

Earlier in the day, the Merchant Hub team, representing Brazil (Tommy Kato, Pelon Escapite and Luis Escobar) won the Carl Fisher International Challenge Cup in an 8-5 win over the La Martina team, representing Argentina (MZ. Kazi, David Tafuri, Carlitos Gracida and Tommy Biddle). Pelon Escapite took MVP honors with teammate Luis Escobar’s “Geevo” being named Best Playing Pony. During the opening match of the day, the Metropolitan by COMO team, representing USA (Lance Vetter, Guille Usandizaga and John Gobin) registered a 9-6 win over the Eden Roc team, representing Mexico (Jason Crowder, Mariano Gracida and Weston Gracida) in the final of the Fleischman Memorial Cup.

“This year’s La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup was a spectacular success,” said Bruce Orosz, president and co-founder of The Polo Life, LLC. “We wanted to make our Ten Year Anniversary extremely special and our largest attendance to-date made the occasion the most memorable celebration and truly shows how the competition has become one of the most popular annual events in South Florida. The Miami Beach Polo World Cup sets the international stage for our first overseas tournament in China this July. We’d like to thank all of our sponsors, patrons and supporters for helping us reach this year’s wonderful milestone.”

Attendees at this year’s La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup experienced the annual series of VIP events that took place each night and in to the early hours. Specialty cocktails courtesy of Perfect Vodka were served as players, patrons and sponsor representatives mingled at the Metropolitan by COMO, Baoli, Adore nightclub and SLS Hotel South Beach, as part of a very active after-hours social schedule. During the day on Saturday, La Martina showcased its latest lines of contemporary styles during an elegantly produced fashion show in the VIP tent. On Sunday, Lou La Vie presented Auto Art Miami, a curated installation of 50 of the world’s most significant automobiles, valued at over $100 million and installed throughout Collins Park for art lovers, enthusiasts and design aficionados to enjoy before, during and after the tournament’s match play.

The traditional post-event awards ceremony was held at the end of each tournament to celebrate the winning teams from both competitions, during which Robert Kiger, owner of Elegante Polo, presented the trophy to the women’s champions and Adrian Simonetti, president of La Martina, did the honors for the men’s.

This year’s La Martina South Beach Women’s Polo Cup VI and La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup X was sponsored by La Martina, Lou La Vie (Auto Art Miami), Mecum Yacht Auctions, Perfect Vodka and A&E, with support from the GMCVB and Miami Beach VCA.

More than 10,000 people attended this year’s La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup over the four days, and the tournament featured the world’s top professional polo players from as far as Russia, Switzerland and Malaysia, as well as the very best from South America.

Each year, the Miami Beach Polo World Cup is produced by the event’s founding organizations, The Polo Life, LLC and ACT Productions, based in Miami Beach, owned by President and CEO, Bruce Orosz. For more information, visit www.miamipolo.com or www.thepololife.com

Photographs of Association of Fundraising Professionals Member Mixer at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar on 4/24/14

Association of Fundraising Professionals Member Mixer at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar on Thursday, April 24, 2014.

Association of Fundraising Professionals Mission: “The Association of Fundraising Professionals represents more than 30,000 members in 200 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Arts and Business Council of Miami Creative Happy Hour at The Stage on 4/24/14

Arts and Business Council of Miami Creative Happy Hour at The Stage on Thursday, April 24, 2014.

Arts and Business Council of Miami Mission: “Our mission to foster and build partnerships between business and the arts that are mutually beneficial and contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of Greater Miami and the South Florida Region. We accomplish this mission with programs that promote voluntarism, build arts management capacity, gather and disseminate relevant information, and advocate closer ties between business and the arts.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of The Miami Rum Renaissance Festival Grand Tasting on 4/26/14

The Miami Rum Renaissance Festival Grand Tasting at the Miami Airport Convention Center on Saturday, April 26, 2014.  This is a must go to event, so much fun!!!!!

The Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, the largest gathering of rum producers, professionals and enthusiasts in the world, returns to the Doubletree Hotel Miami Airport Convention Center for three days of rum tastings, seminars and festivities April 25 to 27, 2014.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

 

Miami Rum Renaissance Grand Tasting 2014

Yesterday, April 26, 2014, I attended the first day of the Miami Rum Renaissance Grand Tasting (Check out my recap). Except for all of the vendors simultaneously running out of rum a bit  early, I had a terrific time. And I definitely had enough rum for any one individual. Here are some photos of the event.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Photographs of Wynwood Life: Cultural Street Festival on 4/25/14

Wynwood Life: Cultural Street Festival on Friday, April 25, 2014.  What a great festival so much wonderful art, music and great people.

Location: 6th Ave. between 22nd and 24th streets.

Dates and Times: Friday, April 25th, 2014 5pm – 11pm, Saturday, April 26th, 2014 12pm – 11pm and Sunday, April 27th, 2014 12pm – 11pm.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of GMCVB Partnership Mixer at Lucky Strike on 4/23/14

Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) Partnership Mixer at Lucky Strike on Wednesday, April 23, 2014.

“The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is a private, not-for-profit sales and marketing organization. It is a private-public partnership with more than 1,000 private business members and four local governments: Miami-Dade, City of Miami Beach, City of Miami and the Village of Bal Harbour.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Miami Rum Renaissance Festival VIP Party at Bacardi Penthouse on 4/23/14

Miami Rum Renaissance Festival VIP Party at Bacardi Penthouse on Wednesday, April 23, 2014.

The Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, the largest gathering of rum producers, professionals and enthusiasts in the world, returns to the Doubletree Hotel Miami Airport Convention Center for three days of rum tastings, seminars and festivities April 25 to 27, 2014.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of Record Store Day 2014 and Sweatstock 5 on 4/19/14

Record Store Day 2014 and Sweatstock 5 at Sweat Records on Saturday, April 19, 2014.  Celebrating Nine years of Sweat Records and Record Store Day 2014 with a free pop-up music festival.  Could not have picked a better day for this wonderful festival.

Awesome Foundation Street Stage: Aj Davila Y Terror Amor (San Juan, PR), Sunbears! (Jacksonville), Telekinetic Walrus,  Eons,  Nobodies,  Eagle Chief, My Deer, Kazoots, The Bows & Ties, with DJs Chalk, Mr. Brown, Action Pat, and Woozles between bands and emcee Daniel Reskin of Casa de Haha!

Audio Junkie Stage at Churchill’s Pub: Purple, Orbweaver, Plastic Pinks, Shroud Eater, Suede Dudes, Whorish Boorish, Nixa, Pariuh!, Bobby Flan, The Jellyfish Brothers, Los Bastardos Magnificos, Gun Hoes, Alx Czo, Dividends, Haochi Waves, Pocket Of Lollipops, Juju Pie, Casual Creatures, Humanfluidrot, and The Bearings, with DJs Peligro, Jolt Radio and OS DA MU to mix it up!

Food trucks: Ms. Cheezious, Los Chamos and Ben & Jerry’s (free ice cream!)

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs of Soul Of Miami presents River Of Art #13 Showcase and Networker at Burger & Beer Joint on 4/22/14

Life Is Art presents River Of Art #12 Showcase and Networker at Burger & Beer Joint on Tuesday, March 18, 2014.

Featured Artists: Mauricio Madrid-Estudiomau, Kandayia Ali and Stefanie Caro  

Featured Charity:Motivational Edge

 Music Curation: DJ Hank Justice

Supported by Sweat Records – Fabulous Miami – Tony Major Events – YOMiami – SocialMedia305 – PARK Project – Soul Of Miami

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of ArtCenter South Florida’s winningART pARTy on 4/18/14

ArtCenter South Florida winningART pARTy on Friday, April 18, 2014.  What a wonderful fundraister for the ArtCenter so many wonderful artist. We  enjoy live entertainment with DJ Mauricio Parra,Matthew Evan Taylor and Velasquez! Also a fabulous silent auction from Royal Caribbean International, Lord Balfour South Beach, Vidal Sassoon, Van Michael Miami Salon, Baumann Cosmetic and Research Institute, Shake Shack – Official Page,Ferllen Winery, Nespresso and much more! Delicious hors d’oeuvres served from Café at Books & Books, Spris,Baires Grill and Tio Gazpacho, for dessert enjoy mini cupcakes from Stella’s Sweet Shoppe and Simply Sharons cookies! Also, wonderful cocktails by Miami Club Rum & Perrier 

Art Center/South Floridas Mission: “The mission of ArtCenter/South Florida is to support artists and advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual arts and culture in South Florida. ArtCenter creates opportunities for experimentation and innovation, and encourages the exchange of ideas across cultures through residencies, exhibitions, public programs, education and outreach.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of PAMM Presented Venus X on 4/17/14

Pérez Art Museum Miami Presented Venus X on Thursday, April 17, 2014.  Every third Thursday evenings, PAMM brings together an eclectic range of internationally-acclaimed artists for a live outdoor music series by the bay. This month, PAMM Presented New York-based artist Venus X.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs from Reinvented Opening Reception at Piola Brickell on 4/17/14

Reinvented Opening Reception at Piola Brickell on Thursday, April 17, 2014.  Miami mural artists Aquarela, Diana Contreras and Kazilla painted the walls inside Piola Brickell and they absolutely beautiful. We enjoyed complimentary wine & finger food with some awesome music by Dj Kumi.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of WhereBy Us: Delightful Commutes at Miami Light Project on 4/8/14

WhereBy Us: Delightful Commutes at Miami Light Project on Tuesday, April 8, 2014. We got to hear from some fellow locals about their commute experiences, hear two experts share examples from other cities, and worked together in small groups to create innovative ideas for making our commutes more awesome and enjoyable.  They are putting $3,000 on the table to make the best ideas happen (thanks to Miami Foundation and Knight Foundation).

{Please feel free to download and share.}