PAMM Welcomed Jaume Plensa’s “Looking Into My Dreams, Awilda” with Art Talk and Reception

Photography by Ryan Troy on March 23rd, 2017 in Lifestyle

Miami, FL – March 18, 2017 – Pérez Art Museum Miami welcomed its new neighbor – Looking Into My Dreams, Awilda – with an art talk by world-renowned artist Jaume Plensa. Following the talk, guests enjoyed a reception on the museum’s picturesque third floor terrace, overlooking the massive 39-foot-tall sculpture, which was installed in Museum Park by entrepreneur and philanthropist Jorge M. Pérez. Monumentalizing everyday individuals, as well as youth and femininity, Awilda presents the artist’s large-scale portrait of a young girl from his native Barcelona. The piece was initially shown in Rio de Janeiro by the sea, where it took on additional references, particularly Plensa’s interest in the Yoruba female deity of the sea, Lemanjá. The piece then traveled to Chicago’s Millennium Park, where it was part of the larger 1004 portraits exhibition and played a significant role in the park’s reinvention. As a promised gift to PAMM, Awilda’s new, permanent home in Miami returns her to a seaside location, as her serene face, and closed eyes, contemplate the Port of Miami. “Public installations play a key role in establishing a city’s unique identity and I strongly believe Awilda will be embraced as a beloved landmark; a sort of lighthouse for Miami,” said Pérez.