January 2011
The international law firm, Greenberg Traurig, which recently moved its Miami Office back to downtown Miami, where it was founded, will soon inaugurate at its new offices in the Wells Fargo Center a colossal mural created by a New World School of the Arts visual arts alumnus. The work of art, measures eight feet wide by more than sixty feet tall, and it will be the focal point of the internal staircase that joins all five floors occupied by the firm.
“It is an incredible opportunity for José Félix Pérez” said Maggy Cuesta, dean of the visual arts division of NWSA. “Greenberg Traurig has been at the forefront of numerous NWSA endeavors and has consistently supported our community’s emerging artists. This new project offers yet another opportunity to highlight the talent fostered at New World School of the Arts, but more importantly, it demonstrates Greenberg Traurig’s serious commitment to continue its support of arts and culture in South Florida.”
Greenberg Traurig partner Juan Loumiet conceived the project earlier this year. After an arduous selection process, Loumiet and other members of the firm offered the commission to Pérez, who, along with five other NWSA artists, submitted their proposals and renderings for the commission. Pérez will not only have the opportunity to permanently display his artwork in a prominent setting within the offices of a nationally recognized and well respected law firm, but also received a monetary prize from the firm, in addition to payment for all materials.
“A national institution such as Greenberg Traurig had the option to commission this project from any national or international artist; however, they opted to offer the opportunity to a young local talent. This speaks volumes about the firm’s commitment to the youth in our community” concluded Cuesta.
“It makes sense to forge partnerships with an established art institution such as New World School of the Arts, which is located just a short distance from our new offices” declared Loumiet. “Greenberg Traurig has always looked for ways to create and strengthen relationships with local art organizations such as NWSA.”
The mural, which depicts a robust and colorful tree, pays homage to the growth and diversity of the firm, which has grown since 1967 from 3 founding partners to approximately 1,800 attorneys in 32 offices in the U.S. and abroad.
Of Venezuelan and Cuban descent, José Félix Pérez graduated from the college program at New World School of the Arts with a major in painting. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in the spring of 2010. Among his many accomplishments is Pérez’s work that captures the essence of the homeless. This painting is featured as part of a collaborative mural showcased in the stairwell of the Sagamore Hotel in South Beach. Other shows and local exhibitions include NWSA’s Rising Stars, Art Basel, and Arteamericas.
New World School of the Arts
25 NE 2nd Street
Miami, FL 33132
http://nwsa.mdc.edu
Be the first to comment