If you’re traveling to or through Miami International Airport (MIA), take a minute to visit the airport’s CameraWork Gallery at Gates D22 and D25.
A new exhibit in that gallery features photographs of concrete structures in Miami and Havana that were designed by Cuban architects who fled the island after the Cuban Revolution.
The photographs are by Miami-based Cuban photographer Silvia Ros and portray sites such as the Miami Marine Stadium, Miami Dade College’s North and South campuses, and Havana’s legendary Nautical Club (Club Náutico).
Parque Jose Marti Stadium (1959-60). Photo courtesy of the artist.
On display through June 10, 2024, Connecting Concrete: Modernist Architecture from Havana to Miami is a collaboration between Ros and art director, designer, and writer Tim Hossler.
The exhibition features 12 architectural photographs taken in Havana, Cuba, and Miami, Florida, from 2015 to 2023. The photographs are grouped by city, with Havana images from Ros’s project Cuba Modern at D22 and Miami images from Concrete Miami at D25.
“Miami is well known for its beachside Art Deco, famous landmarks, MiMo motels, and the vital residential areas, but the relationships between Miami and Cuba are reflected in many significant buildings and environments,” said Ros. “These buildings deserve the honor of being acknowledged and documented, not only for their storied pasts but for future generations who may not have the opportunity to interact with these buildings as we have.”
Miami Marine Stadium (1964). Photo courtesy of the artist.
“Concrete architecture in Miami and Havana exudes a poetic beauty that transcends the utilitarian nature of the material,” said Hossler. “Though distinct in their cultural and historical backgrounds, these cities share a common thread of embracing concrete as a canvas for artistic expression.”