On October 23, 2024, Miami’s art community gathered at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens for the much-anticipated opening of Pastiche, a site-specific art exhibition by Miami artist Lauren Shapiro. The evening drew more than 300 guests to celebrate Vizcaya’s Contemporary Arts Program, the latest addition to the city’s vibrant art scene.
Hosted in Vizcaya’s historic Main House, Pastiche captivated attendees with its fusion of ceramics, technology, and historic inspiration, all framed by the unique architecture and atmosphere that makes Vizcaya a must-visit for art in Miami.
A Triumph for Art in Miami
Pastiche is more than an art exhibition in Miami—it’s a tribute to Vizcaya’s legacy and an homage to Paul Chalfin, Vizcaya’s artistic advisor, on his 150th anniversary. Blending Vizcaya’s historic roots with Shapiro’s innovative vision, this installation showcased site-specific sculptures in the Breakfast Room, Enclosed Loggia and Reception Room.
Attendees enjoyed a first look at Shapiro’s stunning installations, each piece sparking discussions around Miami’s evolving art scene. Vizcaya’s Executive Director and CEO, Joel Hoffman, opened the remarks and introduced Vizcaya Curator Helena Gomez, who took the stage to share insights into Chalfin’s legacy. Lauren Shapiro then addressed the attendees to share the inspiration and creative process behind her sculptures featured in Pastiche.
Shapiro’s work, a blend of traditional and contemporary materials, transported guests through an artistic journey that resonated with both Miami’s past and present. She captivated the audience by explaining her unique fusion of ceramics and digital fabrication, a technique that combines environmental elements with Vizcaya’s architectural details, creating a visual language that’s both innovative and timeless.
This successful opening night highlighted Vizcaya’s role as a platform for Miami artists, adding a new chapter to Vizcaya’s ongoing dialogue between historic and contemporary art.
Pastiche is part of Vizcaya’s Contemporary Arts Program (CAP), a commission dedicated to supporting Miami artists and connecting them with Vizcaya’s history. CAP’s success is made possible through the support of The Danielson Foundation, Miami-Dade County, and the Florida Department of State, among others. The program has become an essential component of Miami’s art landscape, fostering innovative exhibitions that attract both local audiences and art enthusiasts visiting Miami.
See Pastiche Through May 2025 – A Must-Visit Miami Art Exhibit
Following its lively opening reception, Pastiche is now open to the public through May 19, 2025. Access to the exhibit is included with regular daytime admission to the museum, a cost of $25 for adults, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Miami’s art and culture.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the reception of Pastiche by Lauren Shapiro, a stunning celebration of Vizcaya’s artistic legacy. From bold, site-specific works to an inspiring conversation with the artist, it was an unforgettable night of art and history at Vizcaya.
