We took a short day trip to Miami yesterday, and the definite highlight* was visiting Wynwood, a formerly run-down, crime-ridden neighborhood that’s been transformed into an arts center. Once upon a time it was Miami’s garment district, so it’s filled with large, windowless buildings — perfect for art galleries and studios, who started to move there in the nineties. Then followed all the attendant hipster stuff like funky restaurants and artisanal bakers.
But the really unusual thing (and the reason we went) is the art out on the streets. Tony Goldman, a local developer, looked around at all the graffiti in the neighborhood and decided to make a mecca out of it. He invited 30 graffiti artists from around the world to paint murals in what’s now called “Wynwood Walls,” and many more have since followed. Wynwood now has more street art than anywhere in America. Clothing stores, abandoned lots, auto body shops — anything and everything is painted in the most diverse array of styles you can imagine. Beautiful.
*Even better than the Cuban sandwiches, although they were excellent.
(PS: You can click on any of these images to see larger versions.)
January 16, 2016 at 19:55
First I’ve heard of Wynwood. Did you go here instead of Calle Ocho or South Beach? Good choice. And great pix.
January 17, 2016 at 08:11
We swung through Miami Beach too, although that mostly involved sitting in traffic. 🙂
January 16, 2016 at 22:00
I read about Wynwood in the L.A. Times,talking about the development of the arts neighborhood(s) outside of Miami. It was great to see the photos. I can’t believe the powerful portrait of Elsa in her photo. She looks 16! Looks like you are all having fun. What’s up next??? Love, Aunt Mindy
January 17, 2016 at 08:14
Sometimes we think she IS 16. Now waiting to make the jump — maybe Wednesday…
January 16, 2016 at 22:17
Linda:
Jan and I have been in Miami in February the last three years for the boat show and spent equal time in Wynwood. Outstanding street art with a distinctly Latin flavor. Thanks for the great photos.
Watch carefully for your weather window for the jump to the Bahamas and move quickly when it presents.
Gary Ross
January 17, 2016 at 08:10
Thanks! We’re now looking at Wednesday (along with a sailboat next door also waiting to make the jump).
January 19, 2016 at 15:13
There should be a better name for this art ! Extraordinary, especially the hand at Serendidity ! Terry and I are in Stockbridge MA just now, where it is 18 degrees with 40 mph wind gusts. We are journeying with you vicariously, and loving it. xo Jane
January 31, 2016 at 15:36
Fantastic Pictures!