On April 11, the 4th annual collaboARTive Biennial exhibit opened at the Saladrigas Gallery in the Ignatian Center for the Arts at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. The exhibition features the work of 29 local artists, including large-scale abstract paintings, sculpture, collage and mixed-media installations.
The exhibition, which runs through May 22 by appointment, was founded by Iggy and Jean Blackwell Font. The organization offers affordable studio space and a network of support for creatives.
“We know how to support artists and get artists to support each other,” said Jean Blackwell Font. “I had so much fun tonight just seeing people and talking to the artists. Everyone is smiling and everyone is happy.”
The opening night brought together artists, art lovers, students and supporters for a celebratory evening that felt more like a reunion than a gallery event. The Biennial also marks the start of a season filled with programming aimed at engaging the community, including a “Meet the Artists” reception on May 16 that will coincide with the Belen Jesuit Student Final Art Show.
This year’s participating artists were selected by a panel of judges with deep ties to Miami’s art scene, which include Jean Blackwell Font, Ignacio Font, Stephanie Hurst, Maria Ines Leanez, Maria Patino and John Witty.
“It’s great to hear what other people want to say and how they feel about the piece,” said Patino. “The messages that you are depicting with your art and how you can touch somebody’s heart or somebody’s life when they look at your work.”
Beyond the Biennial, collaboARTive continues to lead community-based programming like “Noche de Arte,” a weekly arts activity at the InterContinental Miami Hotel where live painting, music and local artists converge to bring art into the public sphere.
For those interested in visiting the Biennial, appointments can be made by contacting curator Roberto Gonzalez at rogonzalez@belenjesuit.org. More information about collaboARTive and its upcoming programs is available here.
