Miami is one of my favorite cities, where the sun meets the sea, and the flavors are as diverse as its culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a party enthusiast, or an art lover, Miami has something special for everyone. Let’s embark on a journey through the Magic City’s finest establishments, ensuring your visit is filled with unforgettable experiences.
1. Sugar Factory: A Sweet Affair
Start your culinary adventure at Sugar Factory, a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. Known for its extravagant desserts and candy-themed cocktails, this iconic spot is located in the heart of South Beach. Indulge in their signature goblet drinks and oversized milkshakes that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
2. Surf Club Restaurant: A Culinary Masterpiece
For an elegant dining experience, head to the Surf Club Restaurant, nestled in the historic Surfside area. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Mediterranean and American cuisine. Enjoy expertly crafted dishes prepared with the finest ingredients, surrounded by the timeless charm of the Surf Club.
3. Casadonna: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Escape to Casadonna, an Italian gem located in the Miami Design District. This Michelin-starred restaurant brings a taste of southern Italy to Miami, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Immerse yourself in an intimate dining experience that showcases the artistry of Italian cuisine.
4. Superblue Miami: Art and Imagination Unleashed
After savoring exquisite meals, dive into the world of contemporary art at Superblue Miami. This immersive art experience features groundbreaking installations and exhibits that push the boundaries of creativity. Get ready to be captivated by a sensory journey that transcends traditional art spaces.
5. Miami Slice: Pizza Perfection
For a quick and casual bite, make your way to Miami Slice in Wynwood. This local pizzeria serves up authentic New York-style slices that will satisfy any pizza lover’s cravings. Grab a slice and explore the vibrant street art scene in Wynwood, known for its colorful murals and eclectic atmosphere.
6. LIV at Fontainebleau: Nightlife Extravaganza
When the sun sets, Miami comes alive with its legendary nightlife. LIV at Fontainebleau is a world-renowned nightclub located in the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Dance the night away to the beats of top DJs and celebrities, making memories that will last a lifetime.
7. The Goodtime Hotel: Chic Stay and Play
Extend your Miami adventure by staying at The Goodtime Hotel, a collaboration between Pharrell Williams and David Grutman. This stylish hotel in the heart of South Beach offers a luxurious and playful retreat, complete with vibrant decor, rooftop pools, and a lively atmosphere.
8. Sorrento Tower at Fontainebleau Miami Beach: Luxury Redefined
For those seeking the epitome of luxury, the Sorrento Tower at Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a must-visit. Indulge in opulent accommodations, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. This iconic hotel is a true Miami landmark, combining history with modern sophistication.
9. Swan: A Culinary Oasis in the Design District
Discover Swan, a chic restaurant in the Miami Design District co-owned by Pharrell Williams and David Grutman. This elegant establishment offers a menu that fuses international flavors, creating a culinary journey that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
10. Wynwood Walls: Street Art Wonderland
Explore the vibrant street art scene at Wynwood Walls, an outdoor art gallery in the Wynwood Arts District. Admire the works of renowned artists from around the world, turning the streets into a canvas of creativity. Wynwood Walls is a testament to Miami’s commitment to embracing art in every corner of the city.
11. Morning Side Tennis Center: Active Recreation
For those who enjoy staying active, the Morning Side Tennis Center is the perfect spot. Play a friendly match or take lessons at this historic tennis center nestled in the charming Morningside neighborhood. Enjoy the beautiful Miami weather while engaging in a game of tennis surrounded by lush greenery.
Miami is a city that never fails to dazzle with its culinary delights, artistic treasures, and vibrant entertainment. With this guide, you’re sure to experience the best that Miami has to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Cheers to the Magic City!
Immerse yourself in an unparalleled odyssey of artistic transcendence as DTR Modern Gallery proudly presents the highly anticipated solo exhibition, “Colorful Whimsy in the Metaphysical,” featuring the visionary works of acclaimed American painter, sculptor, and printmaker Hunt Slonem.
Totem Fluffle by Hunt Slonem
This highly anticipated exhibition will take place March 21 to April 21, 2024, at the illustrious 2nd Floor Gallery of DTR Modern Gallery in New York City, and is poised to redefine the boundaries of Neo-Expressionist brilliance. Animal Magnetism is a testament to Slonem’s extraordinary ability to manifest the ethereal into tangible masterpieces, drawing inspiration from the enchanting realms of butterflies, bunnies, and tropical birds.
Exhibition Details:
Animal Magnetism: A Captivating Safari Through the Whimsical World of Hunt Slonem
DTR Modern Gallery, 2nd Floor Gallery 458 West Broadway March 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Exhibition Duration: March 21, 2024 – April 21, 2024
New Medium by Hunt Slonem
About The Exhibition:
Embark on an odyssey of the mind and spirit with “Colorful Whimsy in the Metaphysical,” an exhibition inviting connoisseurs of the arts to explore Hunt Slonem’s profound and imaginative universe. Renowned for his Neo-Expressionist prowess, Slonem’s canvases become portals to vibrant dimensions, teeming with intricate details and a mesmerizing array of butterflies, bunnies, and tropical birds.
This exhibition transcends conventional artistic paradigms, providing a glimpse into the metaphysical essence that animates Slonem’s creations.
Opening Reception: March 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Join us for an evening of enchantment as we unveil the latest oeuvres of Hunt Slonem. Encounter the artist in person, engage in intellectually stimulating conversations, and immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of this exciting collection from one of the most sought-after artists in modernity.
Blue Diamond Dust Weekend by Hunt Slonem
Gallery Presentation and Artist Introduction
Delve into the depths of the artist’s creative process and the metaphysical inspirations behind his captivating pieces. This exclusive opportunity offers a unique connection with one of the foremost figures in contemporary art.
About the Artist
Hunt Slonem, an eminent luminary in the art world, has garnered global acclaim for his contributions to Neo-Expressionism. His works grace the collections of prestigious museums worldwide, reflecting the artist’s unparalleled skill and distinctive perspective. With a personal aviary housing over 100 live birds, Slonem’s connection to the natural world transcends the canvas, infusing his art with an unparalleled vibrancy.
Nigel by Hunt Slonem
Animal Magnetism: A Captivating Safari Through the Whimsical World of Hunt Slonem
promises to be a jubilant celebration of artistic brilliance, offering a feast for the senses. For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact: Avalon Ashley Bellos abellos@dtrmodern.com
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of New York City lies a sanctuary of creativity — the studio of renowned artist Hunt Slonem. Recently, I was invited into his world, where vibrant colors and motifs like birds, butterflies, and bunnies come to life on canvas. In our recent interview, Slonem shared insights into his creative process, inspirations, and upcoming projects. Known for his vibrant and mesmerizing paintings, Slonem’s work captivates viewers worldwide, inviting them into a world where color, texture, and symbolism intertwine to form enchanting narratives.
As I step into Hunt Slonem’s studio, I am immediately enveloped by an atmosphere brimming with artistic energy. The space is alive with a kaleidoscope of colors — vibrant blues, lush greens, and radiant yellows dance across the canvases that adorn the walls. Each painting seems to pulsate with a life of its own, beckoning viewers to embark on a visual journey unlike any other.
A hallmark of Slonem’s work lies in his masterful use of color and texture. With each brushstroke, he breathes life into his creations, infusing them with a sense of vitality and dynamism that is both captivating and evocative.
When asked about the significance of nature in his paintings, Slonem’s passion for wildlife and natural beauty becomes evident. He reminisces about his upbringing surrounded by birds and butterflies, which have become central motifs in his artwork. In Slonem’s oeuvre, the recurrence of bunnies not only pays homage to his childhood companions but also symbolizes a whimsical and timeless aspect of nature that continues to inspire and enchant his audiences.
Slonem’s studio environment plays a pivotal role in shaping his creative output. Surrounded by nature, with homes in various landscapes outside the city, he draws inspiration from the wildlife and serenity of these locales. His paintings reflect the diverse experiences and encounters he’s had with nature over the years, from bears and wolves to bunnies and his beloved birds that adorn his canvases.
Delving into his artistic evolution, Slonem describes it as a subtle and ongoing process marked by experimentation with materials and subjects. From broad strokes to intricate details and metallics, his style has evolved over the decades, with a focus on nature remaining a constant theme.
Slonem gleefully shares details about upcoming exhibitions where enthusiasts can experience his artwork firsthand. From galleries in New York to botanical gardens in San Antonio, his sculptures and paintings continue to captivate audiences across the country. I encourage you to visit the upcoming exhibition in New York at DTR Modern later this month starting on March 21st through April 21st.
And as our conversation draws to a close, I am left with a profound sense of awe and admiration for Hunt Slonem and his extraordinary body of work. In a world where art and nature intertwine, Hunt Slonem’s creations offer a glimpse into a colorful and enchanting realm—one where the beauty of the natural world meets the boundless imagination of an artist.
For more information on Hunt Slonem or to inquire about any of his works, visit his website HERE.
About Hunt Slonem: Born in Kittery Maine, Hunt Slonem spent his childhood moving from state to state as his father was a Naval Officer, spending time on both coasts and in Hawaii. While studying at Tulane, he traveled in Mexico and Nicaragua – each a foundation for his love of nature, color and animals. In the early 70s, Slonem moved to New York and started using Nicaraguan holy cards as subject matter for paintings. In the 1980s, after three trips to India, his work became more formal and complex in composition, and his signature hatch marks appeared as early as 1988. Slonem has created monumental public sculpture and panoramic murals including an 85-foot long frieze for the Bryant Park Grill. In 2008, Hunt Slonem signed a contract with Tiffany & Co. for production of luxury chinaware featuring his quintessential parrots. His work is now collected in over 100 museums worldwide and is featured in some of the world’s most celebrated private collections.
PXG has announced a special event exclusively for golf enthusiasts – a free yoga session for golfers, guided by the popular Westchester yoga instructor Cindy Fritz of Cindrew Sanctuary. This interactive event, tailored specifically to enhance a golfer’s performance, will be held at PXG’s New Rochelle location at 100 Nardozzi Place.
Event Details:
Location: PXG, 100 Nardozzi Place, New Rochelle, NY
Date and Time: Wednesday, February 21st at 5:30 PM
In the one-hour session, Sanctuary will demonstrate and guide golfers through a series of movements designed to help:
Improve balance in both mind and body
Enhance core stability
Increase range of motion providing more flexibility in the spine
Build awareness of muscular imbalances
Improve mental focus
Cindy Fritz is a certified Vinyasa yoga instructor and will bring a decade of experience as well as a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this session. Trained at Quest Yoga Arts in Mt. Kisco, she began her teaching career by developing a ‘Wellness in the Workplace’ program while working as a mid-level manager for a large insurance company. She also teaches Kids, Chair, and Restorative Yoga and recently completed her meditation training, further enriching her holistic approach to wellness.
Fritz’s teaching style focuses on mindfulness and alignment, integrating breath with dynamic movement. Known for encouraging playfulness and curiosity in her classes, she specializes in private, couples, and corporate yoga programs. Together with her husband, Andrew, a Reiki Master and Numerologist, they co-founded Cindrew Sanctuary Healing Arts & Practices in South Salem, NY.
This free yoga session at PXG New Rochelle is an excellent opportunity for golfers to experience how Fritz’s approach to yoga can enhance their golf game, focusing on improved balance, core stability, and mental focus – essential elements for both golf and daily life.
Participants should bring their yoga mats or a large towel and are encouraged to reserve their spots quickly as spaces are limited. For more information and registration, visit http://tinyurl.com/pxgnryoga
About PXG:
PXG is committed to providing outstanding golf equipment and apparel, standing at the forefront of innovation, performance, and style in the golf industry. PXG continues to offer exceptional experiences and products for golfers at every skill level. Learn more at www.pxg.com
Welcome to the glamorous world of fashion as we delve into the exhilarating atmosphere of the February 2024 Fashion Week, where creativity meets luxury in an unprecedented showcase of style. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on the illustrious collaboration with renowned luxury stylist Lisa Chambers, whose visionary touch promises to redefine sartorial elegance and push the boundaries of haute couture. As fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders gather in anticipation, the runway awaits unveiling a mesmerizing fusion of innovation and sophistication, setting the stage for a memorable extravaganza that celebrates the essence of chic refinement and timeless allure. Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating journey through the latest trends and mesmerizing designs that embody the epitome of elegance and glamour.
Can you share with us some of the standout trends you’ve observed during Fashion Week Feb 2024?
Wearability was an essential component in all the runway collections. There were very few moments of looking at an outfit or dress and saying, where in the world would I go in that? Designers didn’t shy away from furs, leathers, and other natural fibers as they did in years past, although I wouldn’t say it was a ‘Mob wife’ or overdone aesthetic.
Many of the shows had women in lower-heeled shoes than in previous seasons, and there were virtually no platforms until the Thom Browne finale. Minimalism was minimal, and maximalism is back! Fashion is fun again. You can always be in style wearing cream and beige, but bold colors and prints were everywhere. Tweeds are still on trend for Fall/Winter 2024/25.
Which fashion designers or brands did you find particularly innovative or exciting to work with during Fashion Week Feb 2024, and why?
Thom Browne’s show concluded the week, and he is more renowned for his men’s collections than women’s. The theatrical and ethereal show highlighted a stunning women’s collection. I loved the new twists on embellished tweeds, gorgeous drapey outerwear, and PVC shoes and accessories. The suits, skirts, and jackets were wearable, not just for the next Thom Browne show but for an important meeting or a fashionable lunch with friends. I hope to see more of the women’s collection in upcoming seasons. I recently found out that Thom Browne and Johnson Hartig, creative director and founder of Libertine, were former roommates before Thom Browne began designing menswear. Looking closely at the styles, it’s clear they are long-time friends!
I also loved the Gabriela Hearst collection. She uses beautiful open-weave wool, leather, and shearling for slim maxi dresses, and her evening wear is breathtaking. Fabric movement in all her pieces just felt so feminine. The show took place on a snow day (Tuesday, February 13) in Brooklyn, which didn’t keep anyone away. The show was packed, and the standing ovation verified that Gabriela Hearst mastered her craft. Her collection moved me because her love for her work shone through in the pieces.
I am looking forward to a showroom ‘resee’ to touch and see the garments up close. I particularly loved three pieces: a chocolate brown leather strapless cocktail dress, a cream wool/cashmere open weave knit maxi dress, and a silk and crepe dress that could easily work from day into evening, depending on the jacket it’s paired with.
Tory Burch also surprised on Monday night to mark the 20th anniversary of the brand. Rich textures, tonal ensembles, and pops of color dominated her runway. The brand has not been on my go-to list, but for my clients, modern, elegant, and sophisticated, there’s something for everyone. Sparkle, mixing textures, colors, and shine added a cool factor to the designer’s traditionally minimalist collection.
What advice would you give to aspiring stylists who aspire to work in the fast-paced environment of Fashion Week?
Aspiring stylists, don’t be shy about asking your favorite brands for tickets and dress to impress. Be thoughtful about your outfit choices because this is your time to shine. Hundreds of photographers are outside the shows; you never know where and when someone may photograph you. Photographers don’t just look for celebrities.
Stay within the vibe of the designer whose show you are attending. For instance, if you are attending a Carolina Herrera show, even at 10:00 am, it is midnight somewhere. You can’t go wrong in elegant cocktail or evening attire. If you attend an AREA show, opt for metallics, stones, and anything shiny!
The shows are a great way to connect with people. Although the fashion and people may seem intimidating, everyone in attendance shares a love for fashion. Step outside your comfort zone and introduce yourself to new people. Use this time to discuss opportunities to attend future shows and styling guidance.
Another tip is to join Vogue Club and sign onto their Discord channel. As a generous community, you never know when you might be invited to a show or event. Check out Eventbrite for aspiring and new designers who have invested time and money into their shows and are looking for an audience. You can also watch the shows on live stream here, so if you can’t secure an in-person spot, you can see the fashions in real time.
Looking back at Fashion Week Feb 2024, what were some of the most memorable moments or highlights from your perspective as a stylist?
I love being surprised by freshness and innovation, which is exceptionally challenging for creative directors, season after season. I loved seeing Gabriela Hearst receive a standing ovation for her outstanding collection after parting ways as creative director for Chloe (September 2023 was her last show during Paris Fashion Week) and focusing solely on her brand. Taking that initiative and making that decision could not have been easy, and the beauty in her collection showed her dedication.
I love introducing people, especially my husband, to fashion shows. Thom Browne’s show was his first fashion show ever. Carrie Coon, star of “The Gilded Age,” narrated Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven” as the soundtrack, so it was as entertaining as a production as it was about fashion. He loves horror stories and the macabre of it all.
How do you transition what you see on the runway into your client’s or your own closet?
Each brand has a fit, price point, and vibe that works for different clients. I wouldn’t suggest an AREA piece for someone who rarely goes out or is a minimalist because the pieces are sexy, skin-baring, and sparkle in the evening. For someone looking for understated elegance in the day or evening, Proenza Schouler is a fabulous go-to brand for my clients, and Proenza Schouler White Label is a more affordable alternative to the leading brand with a great look and fit. When considering which pieces would work well for my clients, I am conscious of the budget.
You’ve probably noticed that nearly every month, there seems to be a new home decor trend. If you go to your local store like Target for one month and then go back the very next month, the chances are extremely high that you’ll find entirely new home decor products. It’s not just products; even the aesthetics change, too. What’s up with that?
Unfortunately, fast homewares is a problem, as in, it’s a major problem! It’s hard to really create a creative workspace or a space that truly reflects you if there’s constantly this social pressure to keep your home updated, right? On top of that, since these go out of style so quickly, it’s considered a decorating mistake to have something around for too long.
Plus, at the end of the day, this is going to get super expensive if there’s this constant push to update the home, like keeping up with new aesthetics, keeping up with the seasons, and so on. While yes, by all means, it’s so important to break away from fast homewares, fast fashion, and short-lived trends in general. Honestly, one of the best ways to do it (while still keeping in the know on the internet) would be just DIYing home decor.
Honestly, for the most part, it’s actually a good idea to make your own home decor. You see a lot of content creators, like Instagrammers, TikTok creators, bloggers, YouTubers, and so on, creating gorgeous decorative products. They’re not cheaply produced, nothing mass produced (so it’s all unique), and since you’re creating it, it’s made with love. But is this still a good idea? Is it even a good idea for this to be a creative outlet? Well, here’s exactly what you need to know!
The Power and Perks of DIY Home Decor
As stated just above, DIYing home decor is something that’s really taking off. Of course, this isn’t a new concept in the slightest because something like quilts or even crocheting a pillowcase has been around for the longest time. But why not go back to where home decor all really started, with just a person creating something for their home for the sake of doing it?
There’s the Aspect of Personalization and Uniqueness
One of the most significant advantages of DIY home decor is the ability to personalize your space according to your tastes and preferences. Unlike store-bought items that are often mass-produced, DIY projects allow you to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personality and style. Whether it’s customizing furniture, creating wall art, or crafting decorative items, the result is a home that truly feels like yours. All of the mass-produced stuff is just incredibly boring!
Cost-Effective Solutions
Have you noticed that home decor is getting too expensive? Even if you take a visit to Walmart, Hobby Lobby, or even TJ Maxx, there are items that are blatantly questionable quality at a high price. So, overall, home decor can be expensive, especially when purchasing high-quality, unique items.
DIY projects provide a budget-friendly alternative, allowing you to achieve a stylish look without breaking the bank. If you want a sculpture candle, chances are high that a silicone mold and some wax are about the same price as the actual candle itself. Besides, repurposing old furniture, upcycling materials, or creating decor from affordable supplies can save you money while adding character to your home.
There’s That Sense of Accomplishment
Have you ever finished up a project and you were just so proud of yourself? So proud you just wanted to show it all off? Well, completing a DIY home decor project can be incredibly satisfying. The sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with creating something with your own hands contributes to a positive and fulfilling living experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a novice, each completed project becomes a tangible reminder of your skills and creativity. Also, think about it this way: if you make something, you’re going to be more inclined to keep it because you know you worked hard on it; it’s just not the same when it comes to something like buying an item- you’ll be more inclined to toss it out.
Usually More Environmentally Friendly
Usually (not always, but usually), DIY home decor often involves repurposing or upcycling materials, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle. Sure, sometimes you’re wasting materials, but that’s usually a bit more rare. So, with that said, by reducing reliance on mass-produced items and repurposing existing ones, you can play a small but meaningful role in minimizing waste and promoting eco-conscious living.
It’s Easier to Fit Something Into Your Space
It’s not so much dimension and size-wise, but more for the fact that this can complement the space. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a spacious house, DIY decor allows you to maximize functionality and aesthetics according to your unique needs.
There’s the Potential for Bonding
When it comes to crafts, this is something that’s usually done with people, like friends, family, and so on. But that’s one of the beauties about crafts: it’s done with others; it’s bonding time. Just think about it for a moment; getting to collaborate on creative endeavors not only strengthens relationships but also creates lasting memories. The shared experience of bringing an idea to life fosters a sense of connection and teamwork. It’s relaxing; it’s, for most parties, a happy thing to do together, too.
The Options are Endless
So it’s not just about unleashing your creativity, but whatever you want to make that’s literally not available on the market (or just way too pricey), you can absolutely expect to make it! Seriosuly, from repurposing household items to creating original artwork, DIY projects provide an outlet for your imagination to run wild.
Do you want to make a TV frame for your TV because the Samsung framed TV is too expensive, by all means, you can do it! Is Studio McGee stuff just far too pricey for you? Well, you can make dupes! Nowadays, there are so many tutorials out there for so many things, or you can even try your hand at something, too, but the options tend to be endless when you make something rather than buying it.
Empowerment Through Learning
Embarking on DIY home decor projects is a journey of continuous learning. Whether it’s mastering a new crafting technique, learning about different materials, or honing your woodworking skills, the process is an educational adventure. Each project becomes an opportunity to expand your knowledge and acquire new skills that you can apply to future endeavors. It’s going to get to the point where you’ll only get better and better at this!
You’ll Have a More Emotional Connection with Your Space
Crafting your own home decor fosters a deep emotional connection to your living space. Every piece becomes a story, a memory, or a representation of your growth as a creator.
What are Some Ideas for Making Your Own Home Decor?
As you can see above, other than a bit of money, concentration, and time, you are massively benefitting from making your own home decor. Probably the biggest two benefits are the fact that you’re getting to make exactly what you want, and it’s tailored to you, but you’re being sustainable.
Now more than ever, it’s so important to break away from consumerist habits and think more about the environment and how our actions contribute to it. But with that said, it’s better to do some home decor crafts that don’t use a lot of resources (and upcycling is a far better option anyway). So, what are the best ideas that don’t impact the environment or your wallet too much?
Customized Throw Pillows and Blankets
An example was mentioned earlier in the article, how quilting is essentially an old-school home decor craft. Nowadays, this is still done, and even the same goes for blankets and pillowcases. In fact, crochet knitted blankets and pillows are basically timeless. Sure, there is a difference between crocheting and knitting, but with the color and stitching, you’d still be able to get the design and style that you want (that would best suit the room).
Plus, if you check Etsy or other websites, both knitted and crocheted decor items are super expensive (which makes sense because yarn isn’t cheap, and it takes a lot of time to create these). So, with that said, you can make these however you want, and they’re going to be so beautiful.
Wall Art
Why not consider creating eye-catching wall art using unconventional materials? You could experiment with textiles, reclaimed wood, or even repurposed metal to add texture and depth to your walls. Not only does this provide a unique focal point, but it also adds a tactile element to your space.
Plant Hangers
It’s super retro, but will plant hangers ever actually go out of style? Probably not! Macramé, simple wooden holders, or even repurposed containers can add a touch of greenery to your space, creating a harmonious blend of nature and decor.
At the end of the day, your home should be a reflection of who you are. Honestly, making and crafting up your own home decor is probably one of the greatest ways to really shine your personality while saving money, creating something unique, and probably something that’s also filled with sentimental value too.
