Art has always been part of my life, though I didn’t recognize it as collecting until later. My first original piece came as a gift from my mom when I moved into my first apartment: a beautiful black-and-white sketch in pencil and pen overlaid with watercolor, by Aquiles Azar, a renowned artist from the Dominican Republic (where my family is from). It was part of a limited series of thirteen pieces commissioned by an ad agency. My mom had received it as a gift and passed it on to me, sparking my lifelong love of art and design.
Growing up, I was surrounded by creativity. My mom was an architect who didn’t practice formally but designed two incredibly modern homes for our family. In the 1970s, she developed a passion for Scandinavian and mid-century modern design while traveling through the Nordics. She’d return from each trip with unique pieces of art, rugs, and decor that gave our home its distinctive style.
What made her approach special was her eye for emerging artists and hidden gems. My parents didn’t just buy art from galleries; they’d find it in the most unexpected places—sometimes even convincing restaurant owners to sell a piece right off the wall!
When I started traveling for business, I followed her lead. I’ve brought art home from Los Angeles, Mexico, France and even a large-format abstract painting of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, to mention a few. I’ve shopped at markets, galleries, hotels, and yes, the occasional restaurant too. Not always practical, but it taught me something important: trust your instincts and buy what truly moves you.
Now that I’ve settled in Miami, I’ve refined my style. My home is a mix of mid-century & modern furniture, contemporary art, and unique finds. If you’re interested in building your own collection—or adding a personal touch to your Miami home’s interior design—here are my top tips for curating art that tells your story.
1. Explore Your Personal Style
Miami is a melting pot of cultures, colors, and styles, making it a perfect place to explore different types of art. Ask yourself: What kind of art makes you feel something? Is it bold, colorful abstracts that reflect Miami’s vibrant vibe? Or maybe minimalist black-and-white photography? Spend time visiting local galleries, exploring Miami’s art walks, and checking out all of the fantastic shows during Art Week every December. The more you explore, the more you’ll discover what truly resonates with you.
2. Connect with Local Artists
Miami’s art scene is full of incredible local talent. Take advantage of opportunities to meet artists at Wynwood galleries, studio tours, and community events. Connecting with an artist makes their work feel even more special—and you’ll be supporting the city’s creative community. Hearing the story behind a piece can deepen your connection to it.
3. Embrace Unique and Vintage Finds
Miami’s flea markets, antique shops, and thrift stores are full of hidden treasures. You might find vintage Cuban art, quirky sculptures, or bold prints that add character to your space. These pieces can bring a sense of history and personality to your home that you won’t find in mass-produced decor.
4. Focus on Original Art (Without Breaking the Bank)
While prints are a great starting point, there’s something special about owning original art. You don’t have to spend a fortune. Look for smaller works, like etchings, lithographs, or limited-edition photographs. Emerging Miami artists often offer affordable pieces that could turn out to be great investments.
5. Let the Art Guide Your Design
In interior design, especially in a city like Miami where style is bold and eclectic, it’s tempting to choose art that matches your decor. Instead, let the art take the lead. A piece that truly speaks to you will naturally find its place in your home—even if it means rethinking your current setup. Sometimes, a single piece can inspire an entire room’s design.
6. Trust Your Instincts
The best art is the art you love. It’s the piece that makes you stop and feel something every time you look at it. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and go for what moves you. Whether it’s a large-scale abstract or a small ceramic sculpture, your collection should reflect your personality.
Curating Art for Your Miami Home
Building an art collection is a personal journey—and it’s one of the best ways to add soul to your home. In a city like Miami, where design is vibrant and constantly evolving, there’s no shortage of inspiration. So, take your time, explore the local art scene, and surround yourself with pieces that bring you joy.
Whether you’re decorating a sleek condo in Brickell, or a traditional mediterranean revival home in Coral Gables, the right art can transform your space into something uniquely yours. Need help to transform your Miami home with art that tells your story? Schedule your free initial consultation here.
Comments