Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau celebrates 10 years of Art of Black Miami

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) celebrates a decade of Art of Black Miami (AOBM), a program launched in Greater Miami's heritage neighborhoods of Little Haiti, Little Havana, Coconut Grove and Historic Overtown that’s now a countywide initiative showcasing the destination’s vibrant art scene and its deep connections to the Black diaspora.

"What began as a seasonal celebration has become a year-round platform to promote our heritage, history, neighborhoods and most importantly, our people,” said David Whitaker, GMCVB president and CEO. “This program is also a way to promote equity in the arts.”

AOBM has emerged as a pivotal 365-day catalyst, bringing recognition to Greater Miami’s Black artists. Renowned talents such as Sanford Biggers, Basil Watson, Hank Willis Thomas and Deborah Roberts have all been part of this transformative program, cementing the destination’s reputation as a hub for groundbreaking artistic expression. It elevates local voices and attracts global attention to Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s arts and cultural offerings.

Today, AOBM plays a crucial role in the GMCVB’s Tourism Business Enhancement efforts linking the destination’s vibrant art scene with economic opportunities for local small businesses. AOBM events provide businesses with increased visibility, engaging both residents and visitors. This drives economic activity year-round, extending beyond the major events and ensuring continued growth for Greater Miami’s diverse communities.

"Through our programming, we're not only spotlighting the remarkable talent within our community, but also creating a platform for Black and Afro-Latino artists to showcase their unique expressions of Greater Miami and Miami Beach through their lived experiences,” notes GMCVB Senior Vice President of Multicultural Tourism and Development Connie Kinnard. “By partnering with local businesses and educating them on leveraging the cultural economy, we're amplifying the importance of our neighborhoods across the county, driving year-round tourism and solidifying Miami-Dade’s reputation as a cultural destination that thrives well beyond peak seasons."

Kicking off its 10^th anniversary season on Nov. 18, AOBM 2024-2025 will feature a dynamic celebration of creativity and cultural exchange including a presentation by the likes of Deborah Roberts whose work art has been exhibited internationally, including collections at the Whitney Museum of American Art, Brooklyn Museum, The Studio Museum in Harlem and the Jorge M. Pérez Collection. With thought-provoking art and powerful narratives, this year’s lineup promises to deepen audience engagement featuring established artists and emerging voices.

In 2021, the GMCVB expanded AOBM programming with the launch of the AOBM podcast series. Now in its fourth season, the AOBM podcast is available on all major streaming platforms, the podcast provides a platform for local artists to address how Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s cultural vibrancy shapes their work. 

For more details on Art of Black Miami and its upcoming events, visit www.ArtofBlackMiami.com.