Oolite Arts to base 12 artists in Coral Gables office tower

Terranova Corporation is collaborating with Oolite Arts to launch the Oolite Arts Project Space initiative in Coral Gables.

Birthed from a shared vision to nurture and showcase local artists, the “Oolite Arts Project Space presented by Terranova”’ is set to transform Terranova’s location at 255 Alhambra into a living canvas, celebrating Miami’s artists.

With both the exterior and interior of the building serving as stages for art, the space will continually evolve with monthly exhibitions curated by Oolite Arts. The program will also offer studio space to 12 Miami-based artists.

Starting April 17, the public can view the work of these artists in a special group exhibition curated by Dainy Tapia titled “by and through the waters.”

The selected artists are all applicants to Oolite Arts’ Studio Artist Residency program in Miami Beach.

At the Oolite Arts Project Space, artists will have 24/7 access to studios, facilitating uninterrupted exploration and creation. Starting in May, the project will dedicate a monthly spotlight on an artist utilizing the space. Each month, the chosen artist will have their work showcased in the lobby, creating an immersive experience for tenants such as Colson Hicks and Coral Gables Trust as well as visitors. These exhibitions will not only showcase local talent but offer the opportunity for buyers to purchase the artwork directly from the creators.

By fostering both dialogue and collaboration, the Oolite Arts Project Space strengthens the bonds within the community and encourages a deeper appreciation for the arts, said Stephen Bittel, Terranova’s founder and chairman. By providing a dedicated platform for local artists, this project not only celebrates the rich amount of artistic talent within the community but also transforms 255 Alhambra into a cultural hub, he said.

Founded in 1980, Terranova Corporation is a commercial real estate and opportunistic investment firm with a core focus on US real estate.

“This partnership truly reflects our commitment to going beyond traditional commercial real estate practices and investing in the cultural vibrancy of Coral Gables and South Florida as a whole,” Mr. Bittel added. “Our vision for 255 Alhambra is to transform it into a dynamic hub for artistic innovation, leaving a lasting impact on the Coral Gables community.”

For four decades, Oolite Arts’ mission has been to support artists and advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual arts. Oolite Arts creates opportunities for experimentation and innovation and encourages the exchange of ideas across diverse cultures through residencies, exhibitions, public programs, education and outreach, said board Chair Marie Elena Angulo.

“We’re grateful for this partnership,” she said, “and are looking forward to introducing this group of artists and their work to the Coral Gables community.”