Cando Arts Co-op in Miami Beach

September 2010.

altOne of the newest additions to the Miami Beach art scene is Cando Arts Co-op, a contemporary art center founded by Ray Breslin, president of Collins Park Neighborhood Association last year. Today, the work of resident and guest artists is showcased in 5,000 square feet of gallery space. The historic building is a work of art in itself, with archways framing tall display windows. Having been previously occupied by the W Hotel’s administrative offices, the gallery’s interior is impeccably designed. Over a dozen professional artists display their work in sections of the contemporary atmosphere. The center space is used for special exhibits. Cando Arts Co-op is located at 309 23rd Street, one block west of Collins Avenue, Miami Beach.

The artwork on display this month at Cando Arts Co-op is not only stimulating but is created from a diverse assortment of materials. Various types of plastic bags are the fabric for a collection of clothing by Lucinda Linderman. Adriana Carvalho uses steel wool and metal to create fine art in the shape of gowns. Using advertisements from the 1950s and 60s, Sid Daniels relays messages about women and sexuality in his collage on paper pieces. Augusto Esquivel creates three-dimensional images by suspending hundreds of buttons, which have been precisely aligned. Paula Turk makes abstract sculptures from welded metal. Paul Saint Laurent works with wood to create contemporary wall pieces and large, sculptured bowls. Annfaye uses dead bugs and rusty nails in her sculptures of melancholy heads. Janet M Mueller’s freely painted canvases are attached to old boards and sit on tin cans. Julio Green paints textured abstracts in oils in deep, muted tones onto huge canvases or wood; and Alissa Christine’s photography is sensual and bold. Images illuminate from backlit photo boxes displayed throughout her darkened space.

This new place is sure to host the work of several Miami-based artists, and that is always good news! Don’t forget to check it out while in Miami Beach.

Cando Arts Co-op
309 23rd Street
Miami Beach, FL 33140
305.672.3336

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