Urban graffiti at the Wynwood Walls in Miami and Tony Goldman
In the 1970s, Wynwood was a warehouse district and a failing neighborhood just North of Downtown Miami. It was considered dangerous and unattractive.
Tony Goldman
Up until the urban developer and Patron of the Arts, Tony Goldman, took interest in it. By the way, he had previously successfully revamped Soho in New York.
First of all, he recognized the value of the existing graffiti and street art decorating the windowless warehouse walls. Furthermore, Tony Goldman believed that this form of art was under appreciated and not respected historically.
Goldman turned Wynwood into an open air gallery of urban graffiti and street art
Goldman turned the Wynwood neighborhood into an open air gallery of murals. In other words, into a canvas for urban graffiti street art. The result of his endeavour is what we now know as the Wynwood Walls.
Wynwood Walls
Coinciding with the opening of the Art Basel 2009 in Miami, the Wynwood Walls were presented to the general public.
This turned out to be a major art statement committed to urban graffiti and street art.
Over 50 artists of 16 countries at the Wynwood Walls
Since its conception, the Wynwood Walls have seen over 50 artists representing 16 countries. They have covered some 80,000 square feet of walls with urban street art.
Artwork in the making at the Wynwood Walls
I visited the area several times. I really was out on a mission to walk the streets and discover more amazing graffiti. Amazingly, I could follow the making of this graffiti art work.
Transformation of Wynwood
As a result of the initiative of Goldman, Wynwood was transformed. The dilapidated and crime ridden area turned into a thriving and global destination. Now a days, over 1 Million people visit this open air gallery every year.
Arts district of Miami
Also, together with the Wynwood Walls, the entire district developed immensely. Nowadays, this emerging colorful and artsy neighborhood is a center of art with numerous galleries.
Prominent entertainment district of Miami
Together with the increasing number of visitors to Wynwood, numerous restaurants and bars popped up.
As a result, it is now a very popular area to visit in Miami.
When to visit the Wynwood Walls
A good time to visit Wynwood is the second Saturday of every month. Between 10:00 and midnight the well-organized guided Wynwood walk is organized.
Wynwood Fashion District
In the 1970s, this sub-district in Wynwood was best known for garment manufacturing attracting shoppers from South America and elsewhere. Some time ago, the area was revamped, refurbished and can now boast with shops of famous and high end fashion houses.
Northwest Fifth Avenue
Best place to check this area out is along the Northwest Fifth Avenue. Here you will find all major luxury fashion brands.
Albeit, when I visited, it was all still a bit “empty”. However, enormous efforts are undertaken to turn this area of Wynwood into an “event place”.
Open air fashion shows
In fact, in the pedestrian area, numerous open air fashion shows are organized. Check the calendar to enjoy some great fashion and live music. I guarantee that you will have a great time.
Wynwood Technology District
This is another sub-district of Wynwood in Miami. Albeit, it is less spectacular than the others. It is pretty much a hub for startup innovations. And, I would call it a bootcamp for new employees. In fact, some 190 companies have engaged in training their new employees.
Awesome