Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau unveils Season 4 lineup for Art of Black Miami podcast

Returning with a slate of new artists, the podcast continues to amplify Black artists' voices in Greater Miami and Miami Beach.

MIAMI - (April 15, 2024) - The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) showcases a new lineup of artists with the launch of the fourth season of its Art of Black Miami (AOBM) podcast. Since 2021, the podcast has served as a dynamic platform, spotlighting the rich array of voices and talents within Greater Miami and Miami Beach's Black artist community.

Hosted by curator and arts advocate Rosie Gordon-Wallace, the AOBM podcast promises listeners an immersive experience, delving into the artistic journeys of creators across various disciplines. New episodes drop each month, beginning April 15 through Sept. 16, and feature a different artist sharing insights into their creative process, inspirations and the profound influence of Miami on their work. "This fourth season brings the energy and creative forces of new artists never before featured on the AOBM podcast," noted GMCVB Senior Vice President for Multicultural Tourism and Development Connie Kinnard. "Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s diverse communities are incubators of artistic expressions, and our Art of Black Miami platform serves as a dynamic stage for these visionaries to share their stories, inspirations and heart-felt journeys."

Led by GMCVB Director of Multicultural Tourism and Development Petra Brennan, Season 4 showcases a diverse lineup of multigenerational artists from local, national and international spheres including Kandy Lopez, Reginald O’Neal, Nicole Salcedo and more.

Marking its milestone 10th anniversary, AOBM stands as a cornerstone platform, dedicated to elevating and commemorating Black artists and their indelible impact on Miami-Dade County’s rich cultural fabric. Over the course of the past decade, AOBM has been instrumental in spotlighting both emerging talents and established figures within the Black artistic community. Its enduring presence has catalyzed a profound cultural exchange, fostering a deep sense of appreciation and exploration among visitors and residents alike.

"As an art consultant for the GMCVB, I have witnessed how the Art of Black Miami has not only shone a spotlight on our artists but has also played a pivotal role in nurturing cultural exchange and fostering mutual understanding," added Rosie Gordon-Wallace, the host of the AOBM podcast. "Through these intimate conversations, our aim is to ignite inspiration, impart knowledge and elevate spirits, all while rejoicing in the profound artistic legacy of our community."

Tune in to the AOBM Podcast Season 4,  or subscribe on major podcast platforms. Further information about Art of Black Miami’s 10th anniversary.

2024 AOBM podcast Season 4 schedule:

Kandy Lopez - April 15

Kandy G Lopez, originally from New Jersey, pursued her education in Florida, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida and a Master of Fine Arts from Florida Atlantic University. As an Afro-Caribbean artist and associate professor at NOVA Southeastern University, she seeks to challenge and represent marginalized individuals through her work, fostering a nostalgic dialogue with the viewer and prioritizing learning and cultural exploration in her artistic process.

Mark Delmont - May 20

Mark Delmont, born to Jamaican and Haitian parents in 1990, is a multidisciplinary artist from Miami Gardens, influenced by his diverse cultural heritage and life experiences. Delmont's art reflects his quest for self-discovery, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of identity and belonging through construction, deconstruction and rebirth.

Nicole Salcedo - June 17

Nicole Salcedo, a Cuban-American artist based in Miami, explores themes of consciousness, environment and identity through sculpture, fibers, performance and film. Drawing from influences such as botany and animistic spirituality, Salcedo's work delves into the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysteries of existence and embrace the beauty and complexity of the world.

T. Elliott Mansa - July 15

T. Eliott Mansa, a Miami-based visual artist, specializes in creating assemblages, paintings and sculptures that fuse visionary Southern vernacular styles. With influences from West African, Caribbean and Southern religious traditions, Mansa's work aims to stimulate viewers' imaginative faculties and encourage them to challenge societal norms. Recent exhibitions at prominent venues like LnS Gallery and David Castillo Gallery in Miami highlight Mansa's artistic impact, complemented by awards such as the 2019 and 2022 Ellies Creator Awards and the Green Space Initiative Grant.

Bayunga Kialeuka- Aug. 19

Bayunga Kialeuka, a Congolese-born artist, explores themes of social realism and cultural identity through his narrative paintings and murals. Based in Kinshasa, DRC, his work challenges hierarchical norms and shapes a representation of contemporary pan-Africanism, influenced by a diverse range of artists and thinkers.

Reginald ONeal – Sept. 16

Reginald O’Neal (L.E.O.), born in Miami in 1992, began painting in 2012 under mentor Alejandro Dorda, refining classical techniques. Influenced by his upbringing in Overtown, his captivating oil paintings depict narrative scenes. O'Neal's art, now featured in prestigious collections like the Pérez Art Museum Miami, embodies his community and experiences, showcased in exhibitions including Art Basel Miami Beach 2023.

###

About the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB): The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is an accredited, independent not-for-profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and Miami Beach for leisure, business, meetings and conventions. For the latest happenings in Greater Miami and Miami Beach, follow us at @VisitMiami. For additional information, visit www.MiamiandMiamiBeach.com/About-GMCVB or call 305-539-3000. Stay connected with the GMCVB by following us on our corporate communications and external affairs social media channels: Twitter.com/GreaterMiamiCVB and LinkedIn.com/GreaterMiamiConvention&VisitorsBureau.