ArtCenter/South Florida Is Selling Its Iconic Lincoln Road Gallery Building - posted by FFAB

ArtCenter/South Florida Is Selling Its Iconic Lincoln Road Gallery Building
NewTimes  By Carlos Suarez De Jesus

It's hard to imagine a cultural organization with an historic presence on South Beach letting go of a property that draws untold thousands of local and international visitors each year.

But that's what's happening with ArtCenter/South Florida which has today listed its 800-810 Lincoln Road building for sale to provide the organization with greater resources to expand its programming and services in the coming years. 

The decision to sell the building housing the ArtCenter's iconic bubble-shaped storefront gallery was unanimously voted on by the organization and supported by the artists in residence, according to a statement released by the organization earlier today. The Miami office of Ackman-Ziff Real Estate has been selected as the exclusive broker for the sale of the property at 800-810 Lincoln Road.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the ArtCenter to expand its influence in the growing Miami arts scene and broaden its ability to offer the best quality programs impacting an even greater and more diverse audience," Kim Kovel, chair, says.

"The timing of this could not have been any better as the organization can now expand its exhibitions and educational outreach programs and increase the resources that are provided to the current and alumnae artists enabling them to continue to thrive with ArtCenter's support," Kovel adds.

The ArtCenter's genesis sprung from the vision of Ellie Schneiderman, a Grove House ceramist, whose dream was to create an enclave for local artists. During the early 1980s she persuaded some Lincoln Road property owners to lease space to emerging and career artists at significantly reduced rates. 

Since then, ArtCenter/South Florida has provided affordable studios and workspace to more than 1,000 visual artists from its locations on Lincoln Road while presenting free exhibitions throughout the year. 

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Surprising news.  The Art Center is moving off Lincoln Road as David Castillo is moving on.  Mixed messages for sure.  Lincoln road will not be the same without The Art Center.  With the rents forever increasing, only big chain stores will be able to survive.  The worry is the uniqueness that was Lincoln road is being lost and what will be left is a outdoor mall with the same shopping choices found in any Midwestern suburban strip mall.  Shame.  GL