The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County recently invited Brazilian muralist Eduardo Kobra to create one of his vibrant murals on the Center’s Carnival Tower exterior wall.
Kobra’s 20- by 30-foot mural depicts Itzkan Barbosa, a Brazilian-American dancer from Miami City Ballet School, who serves as a representation of the many talented youth in the arts world.
“The Arsht Center is delighted to grant its support, resources and space on one of Miami’s most recognizable buildings for this mural,” said John Richard, Arsht Center president and CEO. “We’re looking forward to seeing a larger-than-life depiction of one of Miami City Ballet’s magnificent students as this project speaks to the level of commitment the Arsht has for all art forms in our community.”
Kobra began painting the mural in early November.
Kobra, a São Paulo native with a taste for spontaneous street art, is credited with over 500 massive murals displayed on the streets of Brazil and 17 other countries, including vibrant depictions of Mother Theresa, Michael Jackson and numerous other prominent figures. Leading up to the completion of the mural in late November, there were a series of events allowing the public to view the mural as it came to life.
This project was made possible through the financial support of the late businessman and philanthropist Miguel Perrotti, who facilitated the project’s development. He was a longtime supporter of Brazilian youth studying dance at Miami City Ballet School and asked the company to provide the model for the project. Initially conceptualized by Brazilian cultural entrepreneur and curator Jade Matarazzo, the idea stemmed from the thought of spreading art with important messages throughout the city and at the same time connecting institutions and people that offer cultural exchange opportunities for local and foreign artists.
The project came to fruition with an invitation from the Arsht Center’s Aric Kurzman, vice president of business and legal affairs, to create the installation in downtown at the center’s iconic Carnival Tower.
Kobra is the first of a select number of upcoming artists curated by Jade Matarazzo to celebrate art as a common denominator and cultural identity in urban format. Additional supporters and collaborators include the Perrotti Family Fund, Yara Mangini, Miami City Ballet, the Brazilian Consulate in Miami, and Acontece Magazine.
Visit www.arshtcenter.org for more information.
