Oolite Arts stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and support in Miami’s vibrant cultural landscape. Founded in 1984, this non-profit organization has evolved into one of the largest artist support institutions in South Florida, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region’s contemporary art scene.
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ContactA Legacy of Artist Support
Originally established as ArtCenter/South Florida, Oolite Arts has been dedicated to providing artists with the resources they need to thrive for nearly four decades. The organization’s mission is clear: to support artists and advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual arts and culture in South Florida.
Programs and Initiatives
Oolite Arts offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to nurture artistic talent at all stages of development:
Artist Residencies
At the core of Oolite Arts’ mission is its artist residency program, which has supported hundreds of emerging artists over the years. These residencies provide creators with free studio space, allowing them to focus on their craft without the burden of financial constraints.
The Ellies
This initiative, known as Miami’s Visual Arts Awards, provides direct support to artists and art educators in Miami-Dade County. It’s a testament to Oolite’s commitment to fostering local talent and enhancing the region’s cultural landscape.
Cinematic Arts Program
A recent addition to Oolite’s offerings, this program supports local filmmakers and video artists, expanding the organization’s impact beyond traditional visual arts.
Art Classes and Public Programs
Oolite Arts offers over 200 art classes annually, along with lectures and other public programs designed to engage the community with contemporary art. These initiatives help bridge the gap between artists and the public, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary art practices.
A New Chapter: The Future Home of Oolite Arts
In an exciting development, Oolite Arts is preparing to move to a new, purpose-built campus in the city of Miami. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Barozzi Veiga, this state-of-the-art facility is set to open in 2025, coinciding with the organization’s 40th anniversary.
The new campus will feature:
- 21 artist studios for Oolite Arts’ signature residency program
- Exhibition spaces
- A theater for film screenings and lectures
- Classrooms for art education
- A makerspace for experimentation
- A rooftop garden and reception area
Sustainability at the Forefront
The new Oolite Arts campus is designed with sustainability in mind. The building will incorporate energy-saving elements throughout, including solar chimneys, wind catchers, and rainwater harvesting systems. This commitment to environmental responsibility ensures that the facility will serve generations of artists and art lovers while minimizing its ecological footprint.
Community Engagement
Oolite Arts is deeply committed to engaging with its surrounding community. As they prepare for their move to a new neighborhood, the organization is actively reaching out to local residents and stakeholders to ensure their programming remains responsive to the community’s cultural character and needs.
Looking to the Future
As Oolite Arts approaches its new chapter, it continues to evolve and expand its reach. With its upcoming move, enhanced programs, and unwavering commitment to supporting artists, Oolite Arts is poised to remain a crucial force in Miami’s art scene for years to come.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about contemporary culture, Oolite Arts offers a wealth of opportunities to engage with the vibrant world of visual arts in Miami. From its artist residencies and exhibitions to its public programs and classes, Oolite Arts truly serves as the bedrock of Miami’s contemporary art ecosystem, nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and enriching the cultural life of South Florida.
Citations: [1] https://oolitearts.org [2] https://oolitearts.org/ourstory/ [3] https://www.architecturalrecord.com/articles/15612-design-revealed-for-barozzi-veigas-first-us-project [4] https://oolitearts.org/our-new-home/ [5] https://oolitearts.org/missionhistory/ [6] https://oolitearts.org/oolite-arts-unveils-miami-home-by-barozzi-veiga/ [7] https://www.andersonranch.org/events/oolite-home-away-artists-in-residence-exhibition/ [8] https://oolitearts.org/opportunities/ [9] https://toposgraphics.com/projects/oolite-arts [10] https://www.designboom.com/architecture/oolite-art-miami-home-barozzi-veiga-04-12-2022/ [11] https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2022/04/12/oolite-arts-new-miami-complex-environmental