Art As Activism Exhibition Brings HIV Awareness

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the world’s largest non-profit HIV/AIDS service organization has collaborated with the iconic Wynwood based, pioneering restaurant, R House, to create an innovative pop-up art exhibition that connects the power of arts and activism.

Connecting the artistic expressions of 6 emerging visual artists, representing diverse backgrounds, the immersive exhibition will take attendees through 5 rooms and engage them in the journey of an individual being newly diagnosed with HIV and the impact of community support and activism that empowers one from being a victim to thriving.

As a part of Miami’s renowned Art Basel experience, the exhibition, entitled Art As Activism, will premier, tonight, Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 6:30pm – 9:30pm at R House, 2727 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127.  The exhibition will open to the public starting Thursday, December 5th through Wednesday, December 11th.

Participating Visual Artists:

  • Hiero Veiga
  • Sam Kirk
  • Rae Senarighi
  • Bikismo
  • Antonyo Marest
  • Emma Hack
  • Influencers, dignitaries and local civic leaders

“We are thrilled to partner with AHF for this impactful exhibit. At R House, inclusivity and community are at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that art has the power to unite and inspire. This collaboration is a beautiful way to unite people, raise awareness, and create a space where everyone feels seen and heard,” says Owen Bale, co-owner of R House.

Room 1: “The feeling when someone is diagnosed” by Hiero Veiga

Hiero Veiga, known for his distinct blend of hyper-realistic and abstract styles, has been spray painting since he was 12. With over 22 years of experience, his work features surreal designs, kaleidoscopic patterns, and unique symbols like Groucho glasses, chattering teeth, and rubber ducks. Hiero is based in Florida and has showcased his art at mural festivals and created prominent murals, including one at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. His work can be found across the U.S., Jamaica, and Canada.

Room 2: “The Thoughts that Circulate” by Sam Kirk

Sam Kirk is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist who explores culture and identity through her artwork. Known for her vibrant, narrative-driven murals, she has created over 60 permanent installations worldwide, focusing on historically excluded communities. Her work is found in collections such as the National Museum of Mexican Art and Disney Villas where she has also collaborated with global brands, nonprofits, and educational institutions across the country.

Room 3: “The things people say about the diagnosis, along with the things said to oneself” by Rae Senarighi

Rae Senarighi is a non-binary cancer survivor and artist whose vibrant portraiture celebrates transgender and non-binary power. Based in Madison, WI, Rae’s work inspires self-compassion, activism, and gender resilience. His art has been featured internationally in outlets like Art Voices and DNA India. Rae has partnered with organizations like Netflix, GLAAD, and the Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference to promote accurate representation and support transgender rights.

Room 4: “The mirror room, self-reflection, and analysis” by Bikismo

Bikismo, also known as “La Joya del Caribe,” is a Puerto Rican street artist who began painting in 1992. He was once Puerto Rico’s most wanted graffiti artist, and now his work is showcased in museums and galleries worldwide. Based in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Bikismo has created art for high-profile clients including Michael Jordan, Leonel Messi, Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lopez, and Miami Heat.

Room 5: “The realization that HIV is just a virus to be dealt with mindfully” by Antonyo Marest

Antonyo Marest is a multidisciplinary artist from Alicante, Spain, born in 1987. Antonyo’s work blends Art Deco influences with sculpture, painting, and design. His art is inspired by his Mediterranean roots and global travels, incorporating elements of nature, geometry, and vibrant color. His pieces include minimalistic wildlife illustrations, advocate for species preservation, and have been featured in high-profile brand collaborations worldwide.

Room 6: “Outdoor installation” by Emma Hack

Emma Hack is an Australian artist known for her body paint installations and photography. Since 1999, she has gained international acclaim for her camouflage technique, blending body painting with canvas and photography. Known for her Wallpaper Series (2005-2013), Emma painted models into the designs of Florence Broadhurst. Her collaboration with Gotye on the Somebody That I Used to Know music video helped increase her global recognition. Emma is known for her expertise in body blending with art, to recreate an attached AHF billboard concept. Emma will paint a model to resemble the Mona Lisa on the billboard, creating a captivating piece that integrates the model into the artwork.

Guests can visit R House to see the exhibition on the following dates/times:

  • 12/5: 4PM – 10PM
  • 12/6: 4PM – 12AM
  • 12/7: 11:30AM – 12AM
  • 12/8: 11:30AM – 6PM

The exhibition will also be available on

  • 12/9 and 12/10: 4PM – 9PM with access to a cash bar only.

For more information or to book your reservation, visit www.rhousewynwood.comR House, located at 2727 NW 2nd Avenue in Wynwood. Telephone: (305) 576-0201www.rhousewynwood.com.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area. 

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com

#thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest #kendall #broward #biscaynebay


Connect To Your Customers & Grow Your Business

Click Here