Pérez Art Museum Miami Presents Narratives in Focus: Selections from PAMM’s Collection

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February 6, 2025

island-origins-PAMM-narratives-in-focus — Widline Cadet, Sé Sou Ou Mwen Mété Espwa m #1 (I Put All My Hopes on You #1), 2021. Collection Pérez Art Museum Miami, museum purchase with funds provided by Joseph Wemple.

Featuring work by Widline Cadet, Sarah Charlesworth, River Claure, Camila Falquez, Anna Bella Geiger, Njaimeh Njie, Athi-Patra Ruga, and Mary Sibande

(MIAMI, FL — February 6, 2025) — Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is pleased to present Narratives in Focus: Selections from PAMM’s Collection, an international presentation of photography drawn from the museum’s collection organized by PAMM Curator Jennifer Inacio, now open.

Across a diverse range of artists from the Caribbean, United States, Latin America, and Africa, Narratives in Focus delves into nuanced expressions of individual and collective identities, prompting viewers to critically engage with themes of race, gender, and culture. Through an array of photography-based visual languages—spanning prints, collage, installation, and found images—the works explore memory, migration, and the interplay of tradition and modernity while highlighting resilience, survival, and empowerment.

Together, the artists invite contemplation on the intricate connections between the past and present, the personal and collective, and the local and global, challenging and deepening our understanding of identity in today’s world.

“This exhibition gathers together diverse narratives, each reflecting unique backgrounds, journeys, and perspectives. Photography as a medium is deeply embedded in our everyday lives, and carries profound significance in this context,” says Jennifer Inacio, PAMM Curator. “Photography has long been a powerful tool for capturing and preserving realities—however different they may be. Narratives in Focus allows us to see the world through different lenses and invites viewers to engage with experiences and stories they might not be familiar with. I see this as an essential step in fostering understanding and connection across cultures and identities.”

Andean artist River Claure reflects on his identity through the photographic series Warawar Wawa XII (“Son of the Stars” in Aymara) (2021), drawing on his grandparents’ migration from the Andes to the urban city of Chochamba in the 1970s. In challenging conventional, rigid perceptions of adulthood by embracing play as a means of reconciling feelings with reason, Claure recontextualizes the story of The Little Prince within contemporary Andean culture, inviting viewers to reconsider their own identities and the dynamic, evolving nature of cultural constructs.

Widline Cadet’s layered photographs in her work Sé Sou Ou Mwen Mété Espwa ma #1 (I Put All My Hopes on You #1) (2021) inserts a family snapshot of her mother and sister on a larger, ambiguous landscape, connecting memories of childhood in Haiti with her present self, after migrating to the US. The collage’s title reflects her family’s pursuit of the American Dream while the visual layering examines notions of home, land, and the construction of Black diasporic identity.

This Is Where We Find Ourselves (2021), a multimedia project by Njaimeh Njie, is a visual exploration of family, history, and legacy in Pittsburgh, the artist’s hometown. Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and systemic racial injustice, the stark black-and-white images of Njie’s home, neighborhood, and surrounding abandoned spaces, combined with poetic handwritten text, offer an examination of displacement, memory, and belonging.

For over 60 years, Brazilian artist Anna Bella Geiger has explored systems and frameworks as varied as the human body, self-representation, mathematical equations, and sociopolitical issues across painting, sculpture, video, installation, and photography. In Brasil nativo—Brasil alienígena (Native Brazil, Alien Brazil, 1976–77), Geiger appropriates postcards depicting the “way of life” of the Indigenous Bororo people with images of herself and her immigrant family in Rio de Janeiro, displaying them side by side. The pairing highlights the challenges of representing Brazil’s diverse population and raises questions about who gets depicted and by whom.

South African artist Athi-Patra Ruga creates fantastical alter egos to navigate and critique sociopolitical issues, blending traditional and contemporary cultures. Central to his work is the Future White Woman of Azania, a persona that examines post-colonial African identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and utopian ideals while challenging societal structures. In A Vigil for Mayibuye (2015), Ruga portrays three of these figures amid lush vegetation in a state of watchful observance, symbolically overseeing migrants on the move within Africa and around the globe—a rumination on displacement, belonging, home, and the hope for reclamation.

In Samantha Siagama, Trans-Indigenous Leader (2023) from her Compañerx series, photographer Camila Falquez portrays the Colombian community leader and activist exiled from the Emberá Indigenous tribe along with a group of fellow transgender women for defending their gender identity. Samantha wears a powerfully voluminous skirt from repurposed curtains, highlighting her beauty, dignity, and resilience in preserving her strength amid adversity.

Part of the Pictures Generation, a loosely affiliated group of New York-based artists in the 1970s and 1980s, Sarah Charlesworth’s Objects of Desire series (1983–88) examines the relationship between ritual and fetishization, whether sacred, secular, or sexual. Figures (1983) is amongst the most renowned works from this series and features a bodiless white cocktail dress floating in a black void on the left panel, while the right panel shows a person in a black sadomasochist rubber suit against an intense red background. In blurring the lines between decadence and refinement, conformity and perversion, economy and excess, and rationality and seduction, Charlesworth confronts the gendered power dynamics in human sexuality.

Mary Sibande’s alter ego Sophie, clad in elaborate Victorian-style dresses, is a conduit through which the South African artist confronts and reinterprets historical and cultural narratives, challenging the viewer to reconsider the legacy of domestic servitude and the broader sociopolitical context of her native country. A Terrible Beauty is Born (2013)—whose title references W. B. Yeats’s poem Easter, 1916—traces Sophie’s evolution into a symbol of resistance, as she transforms into grander, more intricate forms that highlight both her cultural heritage and newfound empowerment.

Narratives in Focus: Selections from PAMM’s Collection is organized by Jennifer Inacio, PAMM Curator. Ongoing support for PAMM’s project galleries from Knight Foundation is gratefully acknowledged.

ABOUT PAMM

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), led by Director Franklin Sirmans, promotes artistic expression and the exchange of ideas, advancing public knowledge and appreciation of art, architecture, and design, and reflecting the diverse community of its pivotal geographic location at the crossroads of the Americas. The 40-year-old South Florida institution, formerly known as Miami Art Museum (MAM), opened a new building, designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, on December 4, 2013, in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park.

The facility is a state-of-the-art model for sustainable museum design and progressive programming and features 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor program space with flexible galleries; shaded outdoor verandas; a waterfront restaurant and bar; a museum shop; and an education center with a library, media lab, and classroom spaces.

3 Important Things People Often Forget When Buying a Caribbean Home

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February 5, 2025

A person's hand dangling a home key in front of a very blurred background of palm trees and a white Caribbean home.

Are you dreaming of the ocean breeze, palm trees swaying, and endless summer? Purchasing real estate in the Caribbean sounds like paradise, and for many people, it is! However, there are some practical realities to face first. Explore the top things people often forget when buying a Caribbean home so you’re fully prepared before taking the plunge into turquoise waters.

Tropical Weather Isn’t Kind to Buildings

Tropical weather is mostly lovely. Year-round sunshine, warmth, and humidity are kind to our mental and physical health. However, tropical weather also brings excessive humidity, salty air, and seasonal storms. These conditions aren’t so pleasant to experience, and they can wreak havoc on homes.

For instance, salt from the ocean air causes metal to rust, and that constant moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Hurricanes and tropical storms can also challenge your home’s stability.

As a result, home maintenance in the Caribbean is often more intensive and frequent than it would be in milder climates. You’ll need to weatherproof your home, stay on top of repairs, and invest in storm shutters or hurricane-resistant materials. You’ll also need to have a reliable HVAC system that purifies the air and know when to change its HEPA filters to protect yourself from mold-related health concerns. If you don’t do these things, your gorgeous island retreat could lose its value and become uncomfortable to live in.

Infrastructure Can Be Limited

Often, living in the Caribbean entails adapting to limited infrastructure. High-speed Internet, reliable public transportation, and consistent utilities like electricity and water aren’t guaranteed. You could face rolling blackouts or patchy phone service depending on your home’s area.

It’s vital to research and understand what each island offers in terms of critical infrastructure before buying. Some islands provide dependable services, while others are less developed. Knowing the realities ahead of time will help you adjust your expectations—and your lifestyle.

Living in the Caribbean Is Different Than Vacationing There

Vacationing on a Caribbean island is a carefree, no-responsibility experience. Living there, however, is a different story. Everyday tasks like grocery shopping become more challenging due to higher prices and limited selection.

Additionally, integrating into the local community can be its own challenge. Island life has its own rhythm—slower-paced and deeply rooted in culture. While this slower pace can be relaxing, it might frustrate you if you’re used to fast, urban living.

It’s important to visit the island you want to live on during different seasons and spend time there as if you already lived there before committing to a property.

The Caribbean is undeniably beautiful and can be the perfect place to live. However, many people often forget basic challenges when buying Caribbean homes because they’re enamored with island life and vacation vibes. Homeownership is never purely smooth sailing, especially not in the Caribbean. When you’re prepared for the realities and willing to embrace everything this gorgeous region of the world has to offer, you’ll set yourself up for a successful, fulfilling adventure.

Is There a Minimum Income for Wealth Management?

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February 5, 2025

A close-up view shows a person holding a silver tablet in one hand and a pen in the other. Paper with graphs sits on a table.

Wealth management is a term that often feels exclusive and reserved for those with immense fortunes. But what does it truly mean, and is there a minimum income for wealth management? If you’re considering wealth, this guide will shed light on what you should know about wealth management and whether it’s the right step.

Understanding Wealth Management

Wealth management focuses on helping individuals and families manage their financial resources to build, protect, and maximize wealth. It’s often a combination of financial planning, investment advice, tax services, and estate planning. With wealth management, you can access professional expertise that helps optimize tax strategies, manage risks, and plan for long-term financial security.

Wealth management can be especially impactful for homeowners in high-value regions like the Caribbean. It’s not just about growing your assets; it’s about aligning your financial goals with strategies that suit your unique circumstances. Whether you’re managing inherited wealth or preparing for retirement, this service offers a personalized approach tailored to your situation.

Is There a Minimum Income Requirement?

So, is there a minimum income required for wealth management? The idea that wealth management is only for multimillionaires is common but inaccurate. Many firms do not have strict income thresholds, although some may focus on clients with a certain net worth or investable assets. The decision to engage in wealth management depends less on your income and more on factors like your total net worth, your financial objectives, and the complexity of your financial situation.

For instance, you might not have a seven-figure income, but if you own valuable assets like property in the Caribbean or multiple income streams, wealth management could be a smart decision. What is the key takeaway here? There isn’t a universal minimum income – what matters most is whether your financial landscape would benefit from expert guidance.

How To Get Started

If you’re curious about wealth management, the process typically starts with an initial consultation. This appointment is where you and a wealth manager assess your financial situation, discuss your goals, and identify areas where professional support could make a difference. From there, they’ll develop a tailored plan involving strategies that align with your objectives. This plan might include strategic investments, tax planning, asset protection, and estate planning.

Tips for Effective Wealth Management

Once you begin your wealth management journey, staying prepared makes the process even more effective. Keep your financial documents organized, set clear and attainable financial goals, and actively engage in discussions with your wealth manager. Staying informed about market trends also empowers you to make confident, timely decisions about your financial future.

Wealth management isn’t just about how much money you make; it’s about how you use, protect, and grow the wealth you have. Personalized financial advice can make all the difference, whether you’re building a legacy, maximizing investments, or planning for the future. If you’re ready to explore how wealth management can benefit you, take the step to seek expert guidance tailored to your needs.

4 Tips to Create a Tranquil Backyard in Florida

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February 5, 2025

Transforming your backyard into a tranquil oasis is more achievable than you think. For homeowners in Florida, the year-round sunshine provides the perfect opportunity to create a relaxing outdoor space where you can unwind. Follow these practical tips to create a tranquil backyard in Florida.

Choose the Right Plants

Selecting the appropriate plants is critical for creating a lush yet manageable backyard in Florida’s climate. Native plants, such as coontie palms, wildflowers, and beautyberry shrubs, are drought-tolerant and thrive in local conditions.

Pair these with low-maintenance greenery and colorful blooms that support pollinators. By choosing flora suited to Florida’s weather, you’ll enjoy vibrant greenery without the constant upkeep.

Design With Comfort in Mind

No tranquil backyard is complete without comfortable seating and shade options. Incorporate lounge chairs, outdoor sofas, or even a hammock to create inviting, relaxing spots. Add a pergola, outdoor umbrellas, or shade sails to block harsh sunlight.

Increase privacy by planting hedges, installing wooden screens, or placing potted plants strategically. These elements not only improve comfort but invite you to spend more time enjoying your outdoor space.

Incorporate Water Features

The sound of water creates an immediate sense of calm. Adding a water feature like a pool, koi pond, or outdoor water fountain introduces a soothing vibe to your backyard. A calming water fountain can still achieve a stunning effect if a pool isn’t in the cards.

Position it near a seating area for maximum relaxation, where its soft sound can drown out any surrounding noise and make your backyard feel more like a retreat. Plus, you can use the water feature to coax wildlife into your backyard.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere With Lighting

The right lighting enhances the peaceful ambiance of your space, especially in the evenings. Hang string lights across your patio, add solar-powered garden fixtures along pathways, or incorporate lanterns around seating areas. Warm, soft lighting creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings, quiet evenings, or entertaining guests.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Maintaining a serene backyard doesn’t require endless hours of work. Tackle weeding regularly to keep your garden tidy, and keep an eye on your irrigation system to prevent overwatering or under-watering.

Florida backyards are also prone to pests, so consider non-toxic pest control solutions to keep your space enjoyable. Keeping up with these essential tasks allows you to enjoy your outdoor oasis with minimal effort.

With the right approach, your Florida backyard can become a tranquil paradise for relaxation and entertaining. You’ll create a space you’ll love spending time in by selecting the right plants, prioritizing comfort, and including elements like an outdoor water fountain and cozy lighting. Start designing your dream backyard today and transform your Florida home into the sanctuary you deserve.

8 Tips for Starting a Travel Agency in the Caribbean

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February 5, 2025

A young man wears a headset, holds a toy airplane in one hand, and uses his forefinger and thumb to create an

The Caribbean is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, making it the perfect region to launch a thriving travel agency. With its vibrant cultures, stunning beaches, and year-round appeal, the market has great potential. Starting your agency here requires a blend of strategy, creativity, and understanding. Use these tips to help you start a travel agency in the Caribbean.

Research and Identify Your Niche

A successful travel agency focuses on a specific niche. Are you catering to honeymooners, adventure-seekers, cruise lovers, or eco-tourism enthusiasts? Research the market trends and assess the competition. Understanding your target audience will help you stand out in a competitive region.

Understand Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Every Caribbean nation has unique legal and regulatory guidelines for businesses. Make sure you understand the licensing processes, taxes, and permits in your chosen location. If you plan to operate internationally, you may also need accreditation from organizations like IATA or CLIA.

Develop a Business Plan

A strong business plan will cover your mission, target market, operational strategy, and revenue projections. Once completed, explore funding options. Whether it’s personal savings, small business loans, or local grants, securing reliable funding is essential to open a sustainable agency. Decide if you want to rent a private office or a shared space as part of your financial planning.

Build Strategic Partnerships

Strong relationships with airlines, hotels, and local tour operators are key to offering competitive rates. Reach out to partners who align with the type of travel packages you’re building. Exclusive deals and cooperative partnerships will add value for your clients.

Create a Strong Marketing Strategy

Today’s travelers rely heavily on online research to plan their trips. Build a professional website with user-friendly functionalities, including booking options. A robust presence on social media channels can also attract a steady flow of customers. Consider investing in digital ads, SEO, and content marketing.

Offer Unique and Tailored Travel Packages

Travelers come to the Caribbean for memorable experiences. Create distinct packages like food tours, luxury yacht charters, or cultural experiences. Tailor your offerings based on client preferences to deliver personalized trips that make them return for more.

Provide Excellent Customer Service

Treat every client interaction as an opportunity to build trust. Use clear, direct communication channels and respond quickly to inquiries. Follow up with clients after their trips to show you value their feedback. Exceptional service will generate positive reviews and repeat customers.

Know Industry Trends and Technology

The travel industry is constantly evolving. Stay informed about tourism trends in the Caribbean and adopt technology solutions to improve your services. Use CRM tools to manage customer relationships and explore travel planning software to streamline operations.

Starting a travel agency in the Caribbean is an exciting venture. With careful planning and a focus on building strong relationships, you’ll be ready to begin transforming travel dreams into reality. Reach out to experienced business advisors or start your research today to turn your vision into a thriving business.

5 Must-Have Items for a Day Out on Your Boat

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January 22, 2025

A sport motor boat making a sharp, fast turn on the ocean. There is a tropical, lush island behind the boat.

A day out on the water has the potential to be exhilarating and relaxing, but preparation is the key to making the most of it. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or setting sail for the first time, having the right essentials on board can mean the difference between a smooth, enjoyable trip and one fraught with challenges. Below, we’ll explore the must-have items for a day out on your boat to make sure you have an unforgettable experience.

Stay on Course With Navigation Tools

Navigational tools are nonnegotiable for any boating trip, especially if you’re headed into unfamiliar waters. A reliable GPS system is a must to map out your route and avoid hazards.

Pair a GPS system with updated nautical charts for an added layer of preparedness. Even if your boat comes equipped with a modern navigation system, keeping a handheld GPS as a backup ensures you’re never caught off guard. Knowing where you’re going and how to get back safely is the foundation for any successful boating day.

Prioritize Your Safety

Safety should always come first when you’re boating. Life jackets for every passenger, regardless of swimming ability, are essential and should meet US Coast Guard standards.

Additionally, keep a well-stocked first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers to handle minor injuries. Emergency flares and a whistle should also be on hand to attract attention if things go awry. A safe boat is a happy boat, so make sure you’re fully equipped before heading out.

Prepare for Sun and Rain

The weather can be unpredictable, even on the most promising of days. Sun protection is vital to prevent burns and fatigue; sunscreen with high SPF, wide-brimmed hats, and polarized sunglasses are nonnegotiable.

On the other hand, sudden rain can quickly dampen the mood if you’re unprepared. Lightweight, waterproof rain jackets or ponchos will keep you dry and comfortable when the clouds roll in.

Pack Your Food and Drinks Like a Pro

A full day out on the water demands proper sustenance. You’ll need non-perishable snacks, such as protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit, to keep hunger at bay.

Bring plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated, especially under the sun. A cooler is another must-have to keep beverages and any perishable food items fresh. Avoid glass containers by using cans or reusable bottles, prioritizing safety and convenience.

Combat Seasickness Effectively

For those who find the motion of the waves unsettling, taking proactive steps to manage seasickness is essential. Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine can alleviate symptoms, while natural remedies, such as ginger candies or wristbands targeting pressure points, provide alternative options. Drinking plenty of water, focusing on breathing, and staying above deck where fresh air is abundant can also manage nausea and ensure everyone enjoys the trip.

A well-prepared boater is a confident one. With the right navigation tools, safety gear, weather protection, and sustenance, you’ll be ready for a day full of special moments and memories. Pack these must-have items in your boat bag and get ready for a refreshing day out on the water.

Soil Sampling Methods for Island Agriculture

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January 14, 2025

A view of an ocean from a raised spot on the land of an island. There are humanmade structures visible across the inlet.

Island agriculture presents unique challenges due to the proximity to saltwater, limited land availability, and often diverse microclimates. To maximize crop yields and ensure sustainable farming, understanding the health and composition of the land’s soil is essential. Soil sampling methods tailored to island conditions can provide valuable insights, helping farmers make informed decisions about planting, fertilization, and land management. Here’s a closer look at a few soil sampling techniques for island agriculture.

Grid Sampling for Accurate Analysis

Grid sampling divides a field into equal sections, allowing for systematic collection of soil samples. This method is particularly useful on islands where the soil can vary greatly within short distances. By sampling each grid, farmers can identify areas with specific nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances. This detailed analysis helps optimize fertilizer application and crop placement, ensuring efficient use of resources. Grid sampling is a valuable tool for precision agriculture, even on smaller plots of land.

Random Sampling for General Assessment

Random sampling is a quick and cost-effective way to assess overall soil quality. This method involves collecting samples from random locations across the field, making sure they represent the area as a whole. For island agriculture, where fields may be smaller or fragmented, random sampling provides a broad overview of soil conditions. While less detailed than grid sampling, it still offers insights into pH levels, organic matter, and nutrient availability, guiding basic agricultural decisions.

Zone Sampling for Targeted Insights

Zone sampling focuses on specific areas within a field that share similar characteristics, such as elevation, soil type, or crop history. This method is ideal for islands with diverse topography or microclimates. By grouping zones and sampling within them, farmers can address localized issues like erosion-prone areas or saline soils. Zone sampling allows for tailored interventions, improving efficiency and sustainability. It’s an excellent choice for managing the unique challenges of island environments.

The Critical Role of Soil Sampling in Island Agriculture

Soil sampling is the foundation of sustainable farming, especially in island contexts where resources are often limited. By understanding the critical role of soil sampling, farmers can make data-driven decisions that enhance productivity while protecting the environment. Sampling methods such as grid, random, and zone approaches provide essential information on soil health, helping to optimize inputs and maximize yields. For island agriculture, soil sampling is not just a practice—it’s a key strategy for long-term success.

Now that you know the soil sampling methods for island agriculture, you can better manage your land and improve its productivity. By adopting these techniques, you can ensure your agricultural practices are both efficient and environmentally responsible.

2025 Reggae Genealogy Concert Celebrates History of Jamaican Music and Honors Inner Circle, Wayne Wonder and Donovan Germain with Lifetime Achievement Awards

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January 14, 2025

unnamed (16) — The audience enjoying the show at 2024 Reggae Genealogy. | Photo: RJ Deed

Plantation, FL: South Florida will come alive with the pulsating sounds and dynamic history of Jamaican music at the 2nd annual Reggae Genealogy music festival on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The northeast parking lot at Broward Mall in Plantation will transform into a vibrant venue in celebration of Reggae Month. Tickets are available at reggaegenealogy.org/tickets.

Produced by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, this family-friendly showcase will feature a rhythmic anthology of Jamaican music, enhanced by dancers, video commentary from legends, and a narrated storyline.

A Star-Studded Lineup with History-Making Highlights

In Act I, the playlist, performed live with the backing of Code Red Band, will journey through timeless hits representing mento, ska, Nyabinghi, rocksteady, lovers rock and reggae. Iconic performers like Ernie Smith, Eric “Monty” Morris, Wayne Armond, Ambelique, Shuga, and more will deliver standout performances alongside lead singer Bobby Rose and dancers from Carimer Theatre. The charismatic Jamaican Consul General Oliver Mair, whose theatrical flair will add vibrancy to the evening, will narrate.

2025 Reggae Genealogy Concert Celebrates History of Jamaican Music and Honors Inner Circle, Wayne Wonder and Donovan Germain with Lifetime Achievement Awards — *Eric “Monty” Morris performs at 2024 Reggae Genealogy. | Photo: RJ Deed*

The highlight of the retrospective part of the show will be a tribute set by Jerry Maytals & the Original Maytals Band honoring the legacy of Toots and the Maytals.

In Act II, the showcase will explore Jamaican music’s evolution and its influence on genres like dub, pop, reggaeton, and Afrobeats. In this future-focused segment, celebrity DJs DJ GQ of Y100, Walshy Fire of Major Lazer, and DJ Mekka Don of Tu 94.9 will spin sets featuring surprise performers and bringing fresh, contemporary stylings to this captivating celebration of reggae’s global impact.

Lifetime Achievement Awards

Island SPACE, the nation’s only Caribbean heritage museum, will honor three Jamaican music icons with Lifetime Achievement Awards, reprising a highlight from the 2024 Reggae Genealogy event. In 2025, the honorees will include Inner Circle, the “Bad Boys of Reggae”; Wayne Wonder, renowned for the timeless hit “No Letting Go”; and Donovan Germain, the legendary producer behind artists like Buju Banton and Beres Hammond.

In 2024, the awards celebrated an all-female lineup: “Miss Pat” Chin, co-founder of VP Records; Marcia Griffiths, the Queen of Reggae; and Cedella Marley, entrepreneur, author, and steward of the Marley legacy.

Donovan Germain transitioned from a reggae record shop owner to a producer in the late 1970s, founding Penthouse Records in 1988. Known for its sophisticated sound, Penthouse launched the careers of artists like Buju Banton and modernized classic riddims.

Wayne Wonder, born Von Wayne Charles, rose to prominence in the late 1980s with his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Hits like “Saddest Day” and “Bonafide Love” with Buju Banton set the stage for his 2003 global breakthrough “No Letting Go,” which earned a Grammy nomination and charted at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Formed in 1968 by brothers Ian and Roger Lewis, Inner Circle found success with hits like “Sweat (A La La La La Long)” and “Bad Boys,” which became the theme for the TV show COPS and inspired the blockbuster movie franchise. The band remains active, operating Circle House Studios, where stars like Alicia Keys and Pharrell Williams have recorded.

Supporters and Other Activities

Ahead of the show, attendees can enjoy free museum tours, food, and shopping. Gates open at 4 p.m., with performances beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets range from $25 pre-sale to $75 VIP. For details, visit www.reggaegenealogy.org.

Reggae Genealogy is presented in partnership with Broward Mall and the City of Plantation, powered by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and made possible in part by the support of the Broward County Cultural Division, Grace Tropical Rhythms, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Visit Lauderdale, Only the Best Printing, the Jamaica Tourist Board, Mabi Artisanal Tea, and the following funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Judith Cornfeld Fund for the Arts, Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund.

About Island SPACE

Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora. The public is invited to visit the Caribbean museum Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Visit www.islandspacefl.org to learn more.

OSKUNERU 2025: A Theatrical Journey Through the History of the Surinamese Maroons Debuts in Miami February 6th-15th

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January 7, 2025

Miami, FL—(January 6, 2024)—Maroon Isle Productions proudly presents Oskuneru, a groundbreaking theatrical production that highlights the journey of the Surinamese Maroons towards self-liberation. This highly anticipated debut will take place in February 2025 at the Art Lab, located at 300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL. Written and directed by Miami-born and Suriname-raised playwright Sefanja Richard Galon, this immersive cultural experience aims to bring the resilience and triumph of the Maroons to life on an international stage in honor of Black History Month. This production is the result of years of development dedicated to preserving and sharing the untold stories of the Maroons.

OSKUNERU 2025: A Theatrical Journey Through the History of the Surinamese Maroons Debuts in Miami February 6th-15th — Photo: Elijah Pestana

Oskuneru originated as a Zoom reading during the height of the pandemic in 2020, organized by the Black Student Union at New World School of the Arts. It has since evolved into a live college production in 2022, a theatrical workshop at Main Street Players, and a reading in City Theatre’s Homegrown series at the Adrienne Arsht Center in 2023. In 2025, it is ready to make its full-scale debut, embodying a rich history of resilience and cultural preservation.

“Our goal is to spotlight the history of the Surinamese Maroons on an international stage while fostering dialogue about shared Caribbean heritage and identity,” said Sefanja Richard Galon, the visionary behind Oskuneru. “This production is a tribute to the strength of our ancestors and an opportunity to connect audiences to a vital yet underrepresented part of Black history.”

“Oskuneru is more than a play; it’s a tribute to the indomitable spirit of the Maroons and their contributions to world history,” said Galon. “It’s an opportunity to honor their legacy while fostering a cultural exchange that unites our diverse communities.”

Highlights of Oskuneru

Cultural Authenticity:Featuring traditional African prints, colonial-era elements, and an original score that blends Afro-Caribbean and Surinamese music, composed by Music Director Mikhael Mendoza.

Workshops & Community Engagement

Collaborations with the New World School of the Arts and local organizations to offer educational workshops on the creative and historical aspects of the production.

An International Platform: In partnership with the Surinamese Consulate of Miami, Oskuneru aims to present Surinamese heritage to a global audience, fostering dialogue on shared Caribbean history.

A Celebration of Black History Month:

Positioned as a cultural centerpiece for Miami, this production underscores the city’s role as an international stage for stories of resilience and identity.

Event Details

Dates: February 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, & 15, 2025

Location: The Art Lab, 300 N.E. 2nd Ave., Miami, FL

Tickets: Ticketing Information

For more information, visit maroonisleproductions.com or follow Oskuneru on social media at @maroonisleproductions.

Oskuneru 2025 is supported by the Miami Downtown Development Authority, the IDEA Center at MDC, Live Arts Miami at MDC, Main Street Players, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor, and the Board of County Commissioners.

About the Director

Sefanja Richard Galon, a Miami native raised in Suriname, is a playwright, actor, and director dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices. With a background in theatrical arts and a passion for cultural storytelling, Galon’s work bridges history and contemporary issues, inviting audiences to reflect and connect.

About Maroon Isle Productions

Maroon Isle Productions is a dynamic theater and film production company based in Miami, Florida. It is dedicated to creating culturally significant and immersive productions. Founded with the mission of amplifying underrepresented voices, the company specializes in high-quality theatrical and multimedia projects that inspire, educate, and entertain. Maroon Isle Productions is committed to fostering a space where diverse stories can thrive, offering opportunities for marginalized artists and engaging audiences in meaningful conversations about identity, history, and resilience. With a focus on artistic excellence and innovation, the company brings untold narratives to the stage and screen, empowering communities and building cultural bridges.

Reggae Genealogy Pre-Event Industry Panel Discussion Will Explore “The Gentrification of Jamaican Music”

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January 3, 2025