Beneath the surface of its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant landscapes, Florida harbors a treasure trove of cultural riches from the traditional to the norm-breaking. What works of art best encapsulate the state's rich past and eclectic present? It's time to delve into the Sunshine State's artistic and architectural marvels, where history and modernity meet under the palm trees.
Join New York Adventure Club for an enlightening four-part series that unveils the vibrant art and culture scene of Florida, from opulent 19th century estates to contemporary art. In Part One: Gilded Age Splendor, we explore Florida's transformation through the eyes of its earliest (and very affluent) visionary settlers and collectors.
Led by Sylvia Laudien-Meo — art historian, museum educator, and NYC tour guide — this art-centric virtual journey will feature:
- The pioneering spirit of Henry Flagler and his role in establishing the state's first grand hotels adorned with stunning art, in collaboration with luminaries like Carrere & Hastings, Tiffany, and Thomas Edison
- Martin Johnson Heade's contributions to the Artist Colony at the Ponce de Leon Hotel, fostering a unique artistic environment
- Henry Plant's legacy with his opulent Tampa Bay Hotel, a testament to luxury and innovation
- James Deering's Villa Viscaya, a winter haven in Miami showcasing the artistic genius of Paul Chalfin, enhanced by works from Gaston Lachaise and John Singer Sargent, among others
- John Ringling's remarkable vision, turning Sarasota into a cultural hub with Ca d’Zan and a globally respected art collection featuring Rubens and pieces from the mansions of America's elite
- Bertha Palmer's influence, a Chicago philanthropist who ventured into Florida's agriculture and botany, leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape
- Thomas Edison's pioneering work in horticulture, experimenting with tropical plants in his Fort Myers estate
Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Sylvia — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week after the entire series concludes.
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week after the series finale
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week since the series finale, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Sylvia
Sylvia Laudien-Meo is a freelance Art Historian who works in and around the city in various capacities, specializing on Modern and Contemporary art, with a strong focus on Public Art. She teaches art history at Fairleigh Dickinson University and has been working as a museum educator at MoMA, the Guggenheim and the Jewish Museum for over many years, engaging visitors in conversation based, interactive art experiences of permanent collections and changing exhibitions.
For the Municipal Art Society, UFT, Brandeis Univ., and private clients, she has been touring the city for over 20 years, exploring art and architecture, parks, neighborhoods and history. Working in various different capacities gives her a unique opportunity to make intriguing connections and weave together the complex perspectives that make out the tapestry of our fascinating city.
SLM holds a Masters Degree in Art History (with minors in History and American Studies) from the Joh. Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany, as well as a Tourism degree from the EST in Paris France.
The Art of Florida Series
Part 1: Gilded Age Splendor (Wednesday, May 1)
Part 2: Arts and Crafts Movement (Wednesday, May 8)
Part 3: Early 20th Century Collections (Wednesday, May 15)
Part 4: Contemporary Art in Miami (Wednesday, May 22)
Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment, Replay
