In efforts to nurture and give dedicated space to LGBTQ artists everywhere and furthering the bond and alliance between LGBT non-profits in South Florida, Unity Coalition|Coalición Unida (UC|CU) and the City of North Miami have created an exciting new opportunity for the community.
ARTLab@GALVIN CENTER, curated and managed by UC|CU, to highlight local, national and international artists of Trans experience by featuring their works year round, free and open to the public.
The nearly 600sq ft gallery space boasts double height ceilings, an open floorplan, and plenty of space to create, explore, consider and appreciate art.
The Scott Galvin Cewnter in North Miami is open to all Monday through Friday, 10am-5pm.
1600 NE 126 Street North Miami, FL 33181
“This is a wonderful opportunity and partnership, and Unity Coalition|Coalición Unida could not be happier to grow our ongoing commitment to the city of North Miamiof bringing ARTLab and world class works by LGBTQ artists from around the corner or across the globe, to the South Florida community.' said UC|CU director Herb Sosa
Sergio Chávez Bonora is a
Cuban visual artist whose practice spans painting,
ceramics, and mixed-media
boxes. Working in a sophisticated naïve style, his work
explores themes of memory,
identity, and the immigrant experience. Drawing from his
personal history in Cuba and
his life in Florida, Chávez Bonora utilizes humor, irony,
and satire to elevate
everyday scenes and intimate spaces into profound reflections on
the human condition.
ASH KOLODNER is an activist and multidisciplinary artist with works in photography,
paintings, installations, sculpture, and film. They began their career as a
model in New York City. Their modeling work appeared in various advertising
campaigns, including being featured in Elle, and appeared as part of the Viktor
Luna's Spring 2016 fashion collection. Their photographic work was shown in the
True Colors 2nd Annual Exhibition. Between 2011 and 2015, Kolodner developed
their photographic series Gayface, traveling across the United States to
document the LGBTQ community through intimate diptych portraits—one photograph
with eyes closed and another with eyes open, symbolizing identity, realization,
self-actualization, and coming out. Showing Face (2016), a follow-up to Gayface,
was exhibited throughout Philadelphia as part of the Philadelphia Mural Arts
program, on subways, bus stops and billboards. In 2023, Kolodner published
their book Gayface, a collection of portraits accompanied by interviews and
contributions from Kimberly Peirce, Jordan Roth, and RuPaul. From 2023–2024,
Kolodner cinematographed, co-directed, and co-produced several short films
including Feijoada (2023), which won multiple awards at the 48 Hour Film
Project, including Best Film, Best Writing, Best Editing, and Best Acting
Ensemble.
Kolodner was also a
visiting artist at The Betsy Writer's Room in Miami and was featured during the
2014 Celebrate Orgullo festival in Miami, Florida, which celebrates LGBTQ
History Month.
Sid Daniels based in Miami Beach, Florida, is
known for his evocative and innovative works on canvas and paper. Trained in
fine arts at the Ontario College of Art (1970–1974),
his art explores nostalgia through architectural forms, theater, and fashion.
He merges Art Deco with Mid-Century design, evident in his hard-edge paintings,
structural drawings, and mixed media works on paper that evoke emotionally
engaging compositions.
Upon
moving from Toronto, Canada to New York City in 1978, he began a new
series of large-scale works on canvas depicting over-the-top flamboyant, and
very stylized women wearing hats and always with high heels, that became a
trademark to his style, which he coined “Latin Deco.” The Disco Era was the catalyst that inspired
his new work during this time between 1978 through 1986, with his
interpretations of the glamour of 1940s MGM movie musicals and the choreography
of Busby Berkeley and of course, Carmen Miranda. Commercial successes included the ANN
TAYLOR shopping bag design, custom designed artwork created exclusively
for FIORUCCI on East 59th Street for visual merchandising in the store, and
original art celebrating the 1984 summer Olympics that the Chicago Marshall Field Dept. storeexhibited in
their windows. During the 1990s Sid Daniels collaborated with DIFFA (THE DESIGN INDUSTRIES FOUNDATION FIGHTING
AIDS), and ABSOLUT VODKA, and In
1990, Landmark
Calendars published his "BRAZILIAN FOLLIES” calendar. He designed album cover artwork for CBS, JVC, ARISTA, and CBS INTERNATIONAL records for Nat King Cole, Special EFX, and Larry Elgart and His New Hollywood Band. Daniels collaborated with major hotels and
nightclubs, designing murals and original art for the “LasParas”restaurant in Yokohama, Japan, the HOLIDAY INN, Mt. Kisco, NY, the CROWN
PLAZA HOTEL, BLOOMINGDALE’S, MACY’S, and ZANZIBAR nightclub. Most noteworthy is his “LA MODE” painting that is featured in the 1982 film “TOOTSIE”. Daniels
relocated to Miami Beach in 1997, gaining recognition for public art projects
like FLAMINGOS
ON THE BEACH in 2001, the MIAMI BEACH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS poster in 2004, the KENTUCKY DERBY poster in 2003, artwork for theCARNIVAL
CRUISE LINES, and the 1992 UNITED STATES BALLROOM CHAMPIONSHIPS poster. His art was commissioned by NESCAFE
COFFEE CANADA for their Brazilian
coffee brand, in an national ad campaign advertised in subways, buses and
magazine print ads throughout Canada.
The period between 2013 through 2018
unleashed a new series of themed paintings, one is based on the UmbrellaTheme, which showcased his infatuation for detailed line, patterns
and surface textures, followed by large scale mirrored image paintings of Burlesque showgirls. Then came the Labyrinth paintings which were geometric in character, resulting in
works that looked playful and architectural.
The period between 2019 through the present takes the artist to a whole
new direction, resurrecting his love for drawing and fashion, his Fashion Art Series are works on paper
that captures the nostalgia of vintage fashion using a potpourri of mixed
media, with paper. And lastly, his Abstract Works on Paper are inventive
experiments with mixed media, paper and collage techniques that resemble
landscapes, seascapes and architectural structures. Sid Daniels solo and group
shows include the
ArtLab Gallery at Scott
Galvin Community Center Miami,ART BASEL, at AQUA ART Miami, SPECTRUM, the Sagamore Hotel, the Sol Gallery, the Dyansen Gallery,Art Expo NY, Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Studio 54,New Artists at Madison Square Gardens, The Botanical Gardens
Miami Beach and New Yorkers in Barcelona His work is published in Grand Image The Poster
Collection, THE BIG BOOK OF FASHION ILLUSTRATION(Anova
Books), THE ART OF MICKEYMOUSE (Hyperion Books), and 101
SOUTHERN ARTISTS. He is featured and published in the AMERICAN
ILLUSTRATION 442025 annual, and BEAUTIFUL
BIZARRE MAGAZINE
Artist Statement | Sid Daniels is a Miami Beach artist whose work
explores the language of fashion through a nostalgic yet modern lens. Drawing from the vibrant aesthetics of
1930s–1950s fashion and the structural elegance of Art Deco and Mid-Century
Modern design, Daniels creates theatrical compositions that captivate with
drama and style. His richly detailed linework, bold color palettes, and
mixed-media techniques on paper and canvas animate each piece with rhythmic
flow and stylized glamour. Featuring models and performers, his work blurs the
line between illustration and storytelling—hallmarks of his distinctive
artistic voice.
Sid Daniels Contact Information: Mobile: (305)-673-4329 Email: :siddaniels@mac.com
Website:
www.siddaniels.com
Instagram:
www.instagram.com/siddanielsofficial
MARCO CARIDAD is a Venezuelan-American interdisciplinary artist based in
Miami. His diverse and experimental fusion of mediums challenges stereotypes.
He celebrates the complexity and diversity of human identities and feelings by
exploring the intricate nuances of his experiences as an immigrant, queer, and
a descendant of indigenous peoples. His artwork has shown his work in
prestigious institutions such as the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, the Miami Historic
Post Office Museum, Centro de Bellas Artes de Maracaibo, DORCAM, the
Miramar Cultural Center, the Koubek Center, and Miami International Fine Arts,
among others. Caridad has authored three books: "San Stereotypes,"
"A Particularly Vicous Tongue," and co-wrote "Desarrolla Tu
Creatividad con Ejercicios Teatrales." He holds a Master's in Arts
from The Art Institutes, Miami International University of Art & Design,
and a Bachelor's in Graphic Design from the University of Zulia. He has shared
his expertise as an adjunct professor at the Istituto Marangoni and the
Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. Caridad participated in artistic residencies
at the ICA Art + Research Center, Loop Art Critique, and the Miami Paper &
Printing Museum. He actively contributes to the local community as a FAMA
(Fiber Artists Miami Association) board member while acting as the Artistic
Director at Miami International Fine Arts. Marco has also worked on creative
projects for notable entities, including Google, Hard Rock International, Lenny
Kravitz, and Delta Airlines.
ARTIST STATEMENT As an interdisciplinary
artist, I strive to push the boundaries and challenge traditional expectations
of art by engaging directly with various mediums, including printmaking,
painting, textile art, video performance, assemblage, installations, and murals.
The intensified movement of gestural lines and organic stains are the common
thread in my work, symbolizing passion, sensuality, and frustrations about
social injustice. I confront the dichotomy between digital and analog art,
juxtaposing them in both directions, all to forge new meanings and dismantle
stereotypes surrounding artistic expression.
Along my creative
journey, my multifaceted identity often challenges conventional social norms as
a metaphor for the complexity of human relationships and communications today.
The visual textures in my work challenge the notion of "perfection"
as I embrace my visceral instincts as an act of defiance against social
expectations. In my work, I often create series where I repeat the same motif,
subtly tweaking each time to reflect community. This approach symbolizes my
celebration of diversity, akin to facing fears by exploring varied perspectives
and experiences. I understand the importance of representation for minorities,
and my experience with art installations and murals reflects my commitment to
belonging and my desire for inclusivity.
ART LAB EVENTS
"My artwork explores childhood and intergenerational trauma and healing, including
disassociation from the body, mind, and emotions; issues related to gender, identity
and expression, childhood neglect and abuse; imagination and escapism; isolation
and the search for a sense of belonging in the world and with community; healing work;
and radical love and acceptance of the self and others. The artwork also incorporates
elements of the subconscious, dream interpretation, and magic realism."
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
Images from Freepik
'Im a fine artist painting the Egypsy Bible.
It's super interesting and involved. I mainly paint.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase
a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
I have been painting since 2006, specializing in figurative, abstract and landscape
work. Much of my work is on found wood from construction waste. I have also
developed a niche type of work that I call “Paintcatchers”. These works develop through
my use of left over paint on my palette being applied to random boards. This process
on these types of paintings, sometimes evolves over years until a work is finished.
My work has been shown in numerous cities including, Santa Fe, Denver, Miami and
Los Angeles. I am currently represented by Esperanza Art, a gallery in Marfa, Texas.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
They, them | (Shane) is an artist in multiple media, whose diverse body of
work explores fusion of oppositional polarities, transcendental themes, abstract
symbolism, and humankind's unique role within the natural world. A graduate
of Pratt Institute and the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, Shane draws
from their bi-coastal life experience, informed by the rich tapestry of artistic, historic,
cultural, literary, musical and filmic trends of both Los Angeles and New York City.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
She, her, hers | Baltimore, Maryland
I use narrative, historical art references, fantastical elements of costumes and
autobiography to depict taboo intimacies between women —acknowledging and
emphasizing the female gaze. My work consists of large paintings, photographs and
monotypes created over the past two years. I construct intimate moments in my
photographs and create narrative portraits of lesbian relationships.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
www.shopjoancoxart.com/pride-art
The proud, reigning Miss Florida Roundup 2019. The Florida Roundup
is a conference for the LGBTQ community and their supporters, who
are members of a 12 Step recovery program.
Ms. Monroe has been performing since she was 17 years young. She
began her illustrious career as a performer in New York City in the 80’s
and 90’s, working at such iconic establishments as the Monster Bar,
Escuelita Night Club and many, many more.
Vanessa Monroe was part of a real Pose life in the80's, known in the
ball scene as Vanessa Xtravaganza-Continental. In the early 90's she
won many beauty peagents in NYC and In the mid 90’s she moved to
Miami. In 2013 she became a Trans activist and Trans artist in
photography.
In 2017 and 2018 she participated in TransArt . Since winning her
crown as Miss Florida Roundup 2019, Vanessa has participated in
fundraisers in order to give back to her community and also performed
in Miami Beach Pride as Queen Borinquen Clinic.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
A Trans man born in Cuba in 1978. Raised in Miami and partially in Costa Rica, Yeniel is a self taught visual artist. Actively works as a tattooist, and enjoys creative projects on the side.
"Art is one of life's free gifts that has not only given me purpose and a voice but also it has saved my life"
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact info@unitycoalition.org
Visual Artist, Writer/Poet, Musician Composer
Montreal based interdisciplinary trans feminine artist combining performance, music, photography and spoken word with experimental film and video.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact info@unitycoalition.org
Visual Artist, aspiring model
New Bedford, Massachusetts based trans man, visual artist and aspiring model.
Photography by ally Brittany Brackett.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
Visual Artist, aspiring model
New Bedford, Massachusetts based trans man, visual artist and aspiring model.
Photography by ally Brittany Brackett.
FOR MORE INFO on the artist, or to purchase a piece, please contact
info@unitycoalition.org
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Our work is 100% funded by events, private donations, private, corporate and government grants, and we are 100%
staffed and managed by professional volunteers.
Everything that comes in, goes right back out for Programming, Community Building, Leading & Assisting our LGBTQ community.
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Publisher| AMBIENTE Digital Magazine
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Director
UC|CU Volunteer Coordinator
Miami Beach PRIDE Director
Director
Digital Media & Branding Director
Coronado Consulting
Director
Miami Gay Chorus Liaison
CEO | LEO-J MUSIC
LLC Vocal Coaching
Director
Media & Production Director
Erick Astorga Photography Production
Director
J CHRIS | Singer-songwriter, pianist
Global musical ambassador,
U.S. State Department
Director, UC|CU COLOMBIA
Transgender Program Director
Saber es Poder|Knowing is Power
HIV & Wellness Director
Director, UC|CU PERÚ
Director,
La Cámara de la
Diversidad de Perú
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