Ushering In The Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD)

Two of Miami’s most respected community leaders have formed the Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD). Lee Ann Lester, Director of Next Level Fairs, and Sean McCormick, of McCormick Place Miami, recently announced the formation of the new Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD) – McCormick will serve as Chairman of the Board and Lester as Vice President. The boundaries for the district will be Young Arts on Biscayne Blvd and 21st Street to the North; I-95 to the West; 26th Road to the South; and Biscayne Bay to the East, including Watson Island.

MDAD is a non-profit organization that will serve cultural institutions and museums; galleries, local artists and art studios; as well as businesses, event venues, and restaurants that showcase both local and international artists. MDAD aims to unify the Downtown and Brickell Arts District by providing a variety of programs that allow the community to explore the arts district, such as First Friday Downtown Art Night, or provide exposure to smaller independent events through a variety of membership support services.

“MDAD will work in unison with community leaders and the Miami Downtown Development Authority’s initiatives to develop Downtown Miami as the cultural and business epicenter of the Americas,” said Lee Ann Lester. “Already over a billion dollars have been invested in arts and cultural institutions in the District drawing new culturally-minded, international visitors. Our goal is to provide artists, gallerists and the public with dynamic art venues, regular art programs and education to the greater Miami metro area.” A growing number of organizations have already extended their support including: Miami Art Scene™, Artisan Lounge, Life is Art, MDC Museum of Art + Design at the Freedom Tower, Dimensions Variable, SeaFair, CU-1 Gallery, AIA Miami, Florida Grand Opera, and The Art Experiences.

The MDAD Association will hold a VIP Kick-Off event and Press Conference at 6pm on Friday, September 19, 2014 at McCormick Place Downtown Miami – 111 SW 3rd Street in Miami, FL 33130. Guests will have an opportunity to learn more about District events as part of DwnTwn Art Days, September 19-21, 2014 as well as future First Friday Downtown Art Nights and special events commencing on Friday, November 7th with Art Basel Preview, and Friday, December 5th for Art Basel Miami Beach/Miami Art Week shows. The evening will include live performances, art installations, and more. A complimentary transportation service will be provided by FreeBee to participating arts venues.

Featured Image Credit: Anthony Jordan Photography.