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2dyC X N i CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI INTER - OFFICE MEMORANDUM To: Mayor and City Commission From: Roger M. Carlton, Acting City Manager ,,�,jj Date: March 16, 2010 Agenda Item No: ( l Request: Relocate Wallflower Gallery to Mobley Building Attached you will find various promotional materials, articles and a seven minute DVD regarding the Wallflower Gallery. This matter has been placed in the Manager's Report to seek direction regarding working with the CRA Director to relocate the Gallery to the Mobley Building. If such direction is granted, a specific proposal will be made to the CRA Board and the City Commission in April. Time is of the essence since the Gallery is compelled to move out of their existing location very soon. END OF MEMORANDUM The Wallflower Gallery's Art Activism Campaign Plans for the Future - Along The Horizon Within The Wallflower Gallery's Art Activism Campaign there are series of short term and long term goals. While many of the short term goals can be developed through The Wallflower Gallery & Ploppy Palace Productions, there are other components that require a more involved structure of financial management. As part of this emerging need for financial flexibility and support strength, we are working to establish a non - profit organization that will directly connect with The Wallflower Gallery & Ploppy Palace Productions. At this point we are establishing a non - profit organization called Artists for Community Evolution or A.C.E. As a non - profit organization, A.C.E. would be able to accept donations and provide tax deductions to the contributors. At the same time, A.C.E. could work with grants and more specialized funding that standard corporations would not be eligible to receive. While The Wallflower Gallery does meet some of the criteria of a non -profit organization, there are certain standards that this emerging artistic institute could not comply with and therefore makes The Wallflower Gallery ineligible for non - profit status. As a result, we have designed A.C.E. to meet the non - profit organization criteria and integrate into the dynamics of The Wallflower Gallery & Ploppy Palace Productions. As part A.C.E.'s foundation, we have created a format for artist assistance on various levels. Part of the support system will include individual consultation for artists to develop their materials as they work on product development. Another component will focus on financial support as the artists work to apply for grants for projects. Two of the more adventurous aspects of A.C.E. includes an artist health care package, as well as a retirement program that artists can utilize for their personal health and financial future. While these two facets still require much more research and practical planning, these are very important features for artists in today's world. At this point, we have filed the Articles of Incorporation with the State of Florida for Artists for Community Evolution and we are preparing the paperwork for the IRS for the 501 C 3 tax status. Within this format, we are working to establish A.C.E.'s Board Of Directors. Part of the next progression includes preparing a series of programs, formatting the community outreach and preparing the financial foundation that will allow contributors to utilize the tax deductions associated with a non - profit organization. We are currently working on structuring the operational foundation for Artists for Community Evolution and we are looking for contributors and volunteers who will handle certain components of this new organization. Many of The Wallflower Gallery's resources will be available to Artists for Community Evolution and we are planning an expansion to handle the influx of paperwork and staffing that would be involved in this new non- profit organization. If you would like to get more information about A.C.E. or contribute to this organization as we develop the foundational format, please feel free to contact us. We welcome you to join us in The Wallflower Gallery's Art Activism Campaign and share in The Local Art Experience. Thank you for your effort. Flash, Funk Finder The Wallflower Gallery 10 N.E. 3rd Street Downtown Miami 33132 305 -579 -0069 (F) 305 -579 -0050 www.wallflowergallery.com The Wallflower Gallery Developing A Business With Artistic Vision Since 1997 when The Wallflower Gallery first opened its doors, this emerging artistic institution has become a hub for community interaction, a place for an exchange of ideas and a space to explore the potential of creative endeavors. Now as we are about to celebrate The Wallflower Gallery's 8 Year Anniversary on Saturday, May 21, 2005, there is time for reflection on the past achievements as well as the need to contemplate the patterns for future goals. As an artistic business, The Wallflower Gallery works with a variety of unique dynamics that help to shape the contours of organization and development. The creative elements and structural components that allow for an assortment of visual art, spoken word, dance, theatre, independent film, a diverse selection of music and multi- media productions all require specific arrangements and orderly guidance in order to be showcased properly and professionally. At the same time, there are business mandates that require proper attention towards the expenses, paperwork, governmental interaction, staffing, safety and other more rigid commercial demands. The Wallflower Gallery strives to balance both sides of this format with a entrepreneurial vision and proper professionalism. It is important to note that while many people dream of working with or establishing a space like The Wallflower Gallery, most are notable to reach the goals of creating and maintaining a fully funktional business. Oftentimes, this is not reflected on the effort involved or the desire to create something fulfilling for the community, but frequently the lack of sustainability comes from external circumstances, organizational structure, the required support or the ability to generate a financial return. At the same time, it is very important to note that there are many long hours involved, tedious tasks to balance, last minute changes to stabilize, low profit margins and thin budgets to maintain. Yet even with some strong financial support and some good ideas, there is also the need for open minds and caring hearts to guide an honest and sincere artistic institution. While The Wallflower Gallery may not yet be the ideal model of a streamlined and highly efficient business, we have been able to develop an operation that reaches certain goals and utilizes a strong network of individuals who want to participate and contribute towards maintaining this business. Much of The Wallflower Gallery's success is derived from the notion of establishing a business that reaches out to our South Florida Arts & Music Scene and providing space and resources for individuals as well as for the collective cultural community. The foundation for sharing and creating connections is essential for generating results on a broader scale. By focusing on how people of different backgrounds can come together and share an appreciation for different artistic mediums, we are able to expand the impact of our grassroots campaign through innovative marketing and layered networking. Part of The Wallflower Gallery's organizational format comes from the creative diversity of our South Florida talent as well as from the ability to grow past the limitations of our previous goals. In this capacity, it is important to learn from the successes and shortcomings in order to build to higher levels. By realizing that artistic and business accomplishments develop through patterns of evolution and new challenges, The Wallflower Gallery continues to refine our organizational practices and enhance our structural components. By continuing to reinvest our resources and energy into The Wallflower Gallery, the ability to establish positive results is expanded through levels of cooperation and applied knowledge. As a group project, The Wallflower Gallery continues to reach out to more people who want to participate in this innovative endeavor since we continue to tie together community consciousness and sentient expression with a broad business design. Through an increased format of promotions, product development and networking, The Wallflower Gallery expands our innovative hub and looks towards the future with a focused vision. The Wallflower Gallery 10 N.E. 3rd Street Downtown Miami 33132 305 -579 -0069 (F) 305 - 579 -0050 www.waliflowergallery.com The Wallflower Gallery A Hub For Community Involvement Since 1997 The Wallflower Gallery has consistently worked to establish a foundation for artistic interaction and community involvement. With an expansive vision, the people at The Wallflower Gallery have developed an innovative structure to organize talent and resources through a multi - faceted network. By utilizing a layered format that includes featured visual art exhibitions, a performance showcase space with a versatile stage and audience seating, as well as a store for local art and music, The Wallflower Gallery offers artists a wide variety of options to expose their talents and innovative skills. In addition The Wallflower Gallery maintains multi -media equipment for presentations and recording, as well as a series of complimentary production services including photography and graphic design. At the same time, it is important to note that hardware and physical components alone will not empower an unprecedented business arrangement. As part of the organizational structure, there is an intensive arrangement and a formative design that allows for the artistic cohesion to mesh the individual styles into a larger picture. By focusing on the broader Mission of building a community base and connecting with a diverse group of artists, The Wallflower Gallery has proven to be authentically committed to the cause of supporting emerging and established artists throughout South Florida and beyond. Part of artistic energy associated with The Wallflower Gallery comes from the people who are directly involved in this creative endeavor. This business is organized and staffed by artists of all types including writers, dancers, singers, musicians, painters, photographers and multi -media designers. At the same time, many of the support people are actively involved in various creative endeavors on their own and join The Wallflower Gallery for selected projects and assorted programs. Often times, artists are introduced to each other through The Wallflower Gallery and their distinctive talents are combined in unique projects to expand their individual skills, support resources and promotional networks. Through these collective arrangements, The Wallflower Gallery re- enforces certain community interaction features and strengthens The Wallflower Gallery's position as a hub for meeting new people and building on relationships that are already developing. By focusing proper attention towards the artists and their artwork, The Wallflower Gallery maintains the parameters of being a group project with benefits for all who are involved. Even the way that events at The Wallflower Gallery are scheduled becomes a distinctive part of the artistic interaction. Since 1999, The Wallflower Gallery has not presented the same show twice. There is always a distinctive arrangement that strives to bring different artists and performers together. Each scheduled performance has a customized line -up that offers the performers and audience members with a unique experience. In addition there is the ability to enhance the showcase experiences with the series of consecutive events that are featured at The Wallflower Gallery. At the same time, the meshing of visual artists, poets, dancers, actors and musicians provides a spirited creative energy that empowers the individuals and collective scene. With an assortment of programs that are designed to engage individuals and build positive experiences, The Wallflower Gallery provides a dynamic foundation for artistic achievement. Now we must all come together and work to support The Wallflower Gallery as we continue to build and enhance the promotional, marketing and production services that will lift this business and the artists involved into a position that is better for growth and sustainability. By creating a foundation that has proven to be beneficial to so many different people, it is imperative to utilize our dynamic and eclectic network of people and organizations to help maintain The Wallflower Gallery. There are many different volunteer opportunities for people including promotions, fundraising, facility maintenance and community outreach. At the same time, it is also rewarding to attend the events at The Wallflower Gallery and support the artists who are presenting their art here. We welcome you to get involved in The Wallflower Gallery and share in the positive experiences that are associated with this expansive and stimulating group project! The Wallflower Gallery 10 N.E. 3'd Street Downtown Miami 33132 305 -579 -0069 www.waIIfIowergaIIery.com www ,myspace.com/wallflowergallery Artists for Community Evolution - A.C.E. Building a Progressive Foundation for Cultural Development Artists for Community Evolution (A.C.E.) is a developing organization that strives to bring people together and create a foundation for positive change. While utilizing South Florida as our base, we are establishing a structural dynamic that will provide resources and support to emerging and established artists. Some of our focal points include educational enhancements, individual and organizational networking, financial support assistance, product development consultations, marketing guidance and individual health care. These goals reflect the challenges of independent artists in the 218` century. As a support organization, A.C.E. continues to build a communications network that provides direction with experience and practical knowledge. One of A.C.E's main support structures comes from the interaction of businesses, community organizations, government support programs, private foundations and concerned individuals who work together. Within this dynamic, A.C.E. will utilize our resources to assist in grants and other financial support services. By focusing on the business aspects of the liberal arts, A.C.E. works to establish a solid foundation for various creative enterprises. Through A.C.E.'s educational components and outreach programs, individuals will have greater access to artistic guidance and classes. Currently, A.C.E. is steadily building the structure for individual and institutional artistic enhancement. At the same time, many of the programs that A.C.E. will help to develop will utilize artistic mediums to convey current events and share expression. By expanding the exposure to artistic interaction, A.C.E. is working to intensify the vitality of creativity and provide the public with a sensory stimulus for greater critical thinking. At the same time, A.C.E. is currently developing a program to create an artist health care package under a group plan. This component of A.C.E.'s community support will probably take some time to fully initiate, but we are learning about the organizational structure associated with health insurance. Obviously, we are looking for a cost effective program that allows individuals the ability to see their doctors with quality check -ups while having a practical format when it comes to paperwork. We understand that many people restrict themselves from their artistic goals because of the benefits and insurance coverage related to their conventional jobs, so we are working to provide artists and other creative individuals with an alternative. As a result, we are looking to help people find some balance and provide a creative dynamic that allows individuals some flexibility when it come to their careers and life choices. Since A.C.E. will be offering a wide range of services and features, there will be a Membership Program to help us maintain some balance and organizational structure. Membership Responsibilities will include quarterly evaluations and communications that will update us on new projects, current status on existing endeavors and enhancements for the organization. At the same time, Membership Services will continue to expand as resources and community interaction develops with more practical experience. Even with A.C.E.'s Membership Program, many of the services provided will not be limited exclusively to Members. One of A.C.E.'s goals is directed through our ability to lift our artistic community and provide the support required for our Members and artists throughout our community to reach their goals. As A.C.E. continues to develop the organizational structure of a fully accredited 501 C 3 non - profit organization, we will be able to accept donations and provide the resources for a tax deduction. We are currently filed as an incorporated business in the State of Florida and we are in the process of filing for our 501 C 3 tax status with the IRS. Within this emerging community organization, A.C.E. will continue to build up a format for artistic outreach and develop new ways to bring people together. Like many other creative endeavors, A.C.E. is a group project that welcomes involvement and support from the community. Artists for Community Evolution - A.C.E. 10 N.E. 3rd Street Downtown Miami 33132 305 - 579 -0069 (F) 305 -579 -0050 www.ace- art.org '.U, NEW�TIMES BEST OF -MIAMI MAY 31 -TUNE 6,2007 <- mlaminewtlmesco Q / �«- �pp3211I11(AiI�ROf , rkeWAaF40WAR MARRY He responds only to "Flash ," and.like the hiekname implies, he is all about speed and li': - ,Speed; to continually schedule anew and interesting slate of events, meetings, and benefit concerts. And light: to shed upon often overlooked issues that affect our city The man who hides behind the myste 'xions nickname is themost gregarious dudeI., k his passionbecomes immediately evident when he's asked about upcoming events at e Wallflower Gallery (10 NE Third St., Miami). Flash has worked hard to convertthe downtown sanctuary from a funky spoken -word spot and art gallery into the epicenter of Miami's progressive, socially active hipsters. "If you check our ._._ MySpace ...o calendar [at' ,nn�..nnll'arvl. see that we've schedulea a ouuci, - -nt series throughout the whole year he explains. "That includes a progres- e..ors;•;anrsincial the last, Sunday of the "tmra auuuay'va uw ... _•_ -, -. - -. come up with something to do on the second Sunday of the month sometime soon:' Besides playing host to that dazzling array of events, Flash's gallery hosts Emerge Miami ' and "regular Green Party meetings: The concept of upcoming Criti -. cal Mass events comes from here; recently the ragtag group of cyclists has successfully executed jaunts down South Dixie High- way - , and has scheduled a trip through Calle Ocho, Flash is also the man behind the annual Everglades Awareness and Medical Marijuana Benefit concerts at Tobacco Road: Despite his seemingly superhuman efforts to bring creative minds together, . raise awareness, and generate fundraising' efforts for our local environmental causes, Flash remains modest about his efforts and "reluctant to basic in the spotlight "I'm just trying to keep the circus rolling," he demurs. More and more people are joining.. him every day. DOWNTOWN MIAMI uY r .b E .A �/p Y S+''. �Mi `� h ki `U - t4 Y Yk !t YOU DON'T NEED ALCOHOL TO GET HAPPY AT A NEW HOLISTIC HAPPY HOUR OFFERED AT A DOWNTOWN MIAMI ART GALLERY BY EMILY STEVENS Special to?he Munn. Herald Entering the Wallflower Gallery recently, laughter floated down a narrow stair- case leading to the second - story lobby. It was happy hour, but the laughter did not seem forced or overbearing. Instead it seemed, well, natural. That would be in keeping with the Wallflower's weekly Holistic Happy Hour, where instead of drafts or carafes, workers from the sunourd- ing downtown Miami neigh. hothead can unwind with organic juices, massages and other relaxation techniques and therapies. On a recent Friday, the source of the laughter was three people who stood in a small puddle of soapy resi- due, surrounded by a floating cloud of iridescent bubbles. Gallery owner C.D. Flash — people know him simply as Flash— calls it `bubble ther- apy," and it's one of the relax- ation techniques he and his associates employ at the weekly holistic happenings. The concept o£the holistic happy hours, he says, "is the idea of giving an alternative to traditional happy hours. It's more of an artistic envi- ronment, and it gees with our idea of being an all -ages venue." Aside from the bubble therapy, the happy hours — which have been taking place for a couple of months — nave seen groups of up to li people getting massages, playing charades or chess, watching independent films, browsing the selection of locally produced crafts, or just hanging out and talking. "It's kind of a fun, different sort of atmosphere," said Tia Williams, a legal assistant who is a regular at the events. "I like the whole alternative approach; it's not the usual meat - market gathering. It's more of a get-in- touch -with- your- inner -child kind of PHOTOS By NOR] VALRONA/MIAMI HERALD STAFF HAPPY TO BE HERE: Flash, owner of Wallflower Gallery, surveys his art gallery that features massages, organic snacks and juices during a holistic happy hour Fridays. thing." "You never know what's going to happen," Williams added. "Everybody's happy to jump on board and try new Things. They aren't afraid of being a little silly and laugh- ing about acting like big kids." Flash also noted that part of what makes these Friday evenings an alternate choice is the type of beverages served: organic juices, teas and coffees as opyosed to anything with alcohol. "Our philosophy is that if you get good people in a room together, something good will happen," he said. "When they're sober and more focused in the moment, they can be themselves more. Its less pretentious and more positive." While the Wallflower Gal- lery does carry typical super- market -type snacks and drinks — including Little Debbie cakes and Yoo -hoo drinks — Flash says a crowd SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: Tia Williams reads a spirit card to Kai Escobar, 6, during an event at the gallery, favorite has been juice drinks containing %anGo. Eunice Perez, a distributor of the juice and a massage therapist at the happy hours, said %anGo is a potent juice made from the mangosmen fruit. "It's an immune booster and a super uttioxidant," she Said. "It's made with tho rind and everything, so you really get the benefit of the whole fruit" Jonathan Rose, an attorney who frequents the Wallflower for many events, said he likes the unpredictability and the open - mindedness of the par- ticipants. "Flash is open to all sorts of new things and he gives IF YOU GO o What: Holistic Happy Hours o Where: wallflower Gallery, 10 HE Third St., Miami o When; 4:30 to B p.m. Fridays • Offerings: Xango and Gogi juices, games, mas- sages, a ki and other healing modalities, • Cost: Free • For information: Call 305 - 579.0069 or visit www.myspdce.com /wall flowergolery for a calen- darofevents, everybody a chance," Rose said. "I like to try new things, and this is a wonderful oppor. tunity. Everybody can partici- pate and you can do whatever you want. It's just a chance to exercise your mind and body and learn about different things." While Flash, Perez and Christine Alexander of pro- motions company Music, At Love are just starting the happy hours and are. still in the process of getting the word out, they all agree that a fun time will be had regard. less of the number of people there. "We had to develop the program before we could pro- mote it," Flash said. "But the idea is good and I think when more people know about it, We'll gerup'cb `Jb-peopla'in here." The happy hours, which begin around 4:30 p.m., lead into performances at 8 featur- ing local acts. The gallery also hosts film screenings, comedy and spo- ken word, leadership classes and vegetarian potluck din- ners. "We're not in it for the quick money," Flash said. "We're working hard and try- ing to build a community based on art, creativity and friendship." Hel Save the allflower Gallery The down own Miami venue faces demolition. BY ARIELLE CASTILLO he wallflower Gadec, downtown Ml amFs inlpmbable pri of Orinoco has laced a number of challenges. For one. it S a wave that doesri t serve alcohol in a town bele on pony' Ing It Inhabitsa lonely comer In a neighhodwod that until n:cently was a ghott town obey dmk And its a nndtiPletaso, nunpmgt o nan'"Idnt that le ek space to everytiang from live music to un ground visual art to independent theater and bownd — all loans of expression that are not exactly among the city s urltutal .... allies$, ' If people want a hi p and culturally creative downtown Miami, they've gotto support places like this." Slily. the little galaxy that could, honaid by Its single- lncuikemd I i Tinder" and I but, flash, hoe stock it out far almost t3 yenrs More than ton of tdse have boon dual) alas Cottein location at 10 NE Yhird St. im all of dial might -icon con, to an and Flash and aumpany were dealt n recent crush ing flow The building is slated to be demolished in April, the owner announced, The Wallflower Gallery nest either raise enough money to No persuade him to change his mind, or had the cash lot new digs. w 1 A move would caulaby be to the 2 pertinent of downtown. "Cmnpamd rim 1- " to must businesses .we have acom- `," munity dynamic. We're not a bar. wI a 2 lye 'mnrulrtual lnstiunipn "Flash _ i says "I dully flunkwhat wedo's q, ii � yoLxl la ba rePlecpd dY anylldng als'u. Peuplesayalldlelica, Ivash i � Iknnw about this place earfien'If 60 penple want a hip and wllmally cleat, "downtown Miami, they've r got to support ..loess like this Still, ho is open to other lonr- lines -Ha notes Im would especially Ikea place If ru e murc handluappmda+eucesible and Olt" s bener parking. But he readily admiu he needs help "Money is the quickest thing, because I want to make sure that I can move to whatever new place or pay for here. Or it'd likel people that want to help, physically .. help move it necessary.' Flash Says. "We've been fighting file good light for 13 yeals, and it's sad that now file walls are literally coming down Mail us' 11 you 'd Eke to offer Your grat or resources , email Ilash3spOullbowergalby in arrn11305 579-0069. Email musicQmiaminewtimes.wed 114 11 kli � V � `J' "r Y .^ 4Y'�"yrl�KhJ9011115yUfj� spirkual shop (which eans�fts not a" d § � 36 closermagazine.com I ne atmosphere is downright "homey" and and talented people, and help one of Miami's Flash is a stand -up guy. He's spent the last ten most innovative arts centers keep the years of his life making the place thrive on his spirit alive. love and respect for the arts. Looking like one of your old stoner buddies, he always seems There are paintings, photographs, assemblages quick to smile . and laugh, Even I was comfort and many prints for sale. Because the gallery able there —a rarity in this often vacant, plastic world and in the heart of this (mildly) When you bring artists agoraphobic writer, together,:.. you get the most Flash struggles every month to keep the doors exciting results." open and likens it to "going from one fire to anoth- er." But he keeps on has no liquor license because he knows the , +t f r t a y the focus is on selling value of art and music a r ter `i,�S r irz .,};Fi n fly' {f healthy snacks and the provide some of s n ' �M d 't" a*, �'r' y p ray" ,� + � �'6 1, x � � �; works of art And those truly magical, so ` y�'i)" �. r) °,'• � , L � � because they cannot hard to find moments in x .� <.ry` ti r depend on their, liquor life. He chose South fTF license for money, they Florida, he says, b `+ + 4 rely heavily on sponsor- "because I feel like the is M s- n ✓, w� ship and the communk artistic talent is so strong ty. These are just some down here and this area 'G g' other ways that you has so much to offer in r - can help the Wallflower the creative arts." stay in bloom. Cross-pollination is the Right now Wallflower is madness behind showing the artists list - Wallflower's inter disci- ed, and this carder v r plinary method, bringing creative people together? "'•`'' thinks you better be there — unless you want so that they can inspire v 1 me to come over and one another. As one Flash _ smack you up side the example cited an .. -._.i head. Unless you're a upcoming CD from one masochist and are into of the gallery's bands, for which the cover art that, in which case I'll come over and treat you was done by one of the gallery's artists. "When really well, you bring artists together," he says, "—and I'm not just talking about painters and sculptors, The Wallflower Gallery is also responsible for the but those people, and poets, and musicians, .Medical Mantuan Benefit Concert, and the and writers —you get the most exciting results." ' Everglades Awareness Concert.. Both events expose the local hub of artists, while spreading a Wallflower counts on volunteers to get its work message and spreading awareness done, and because Flash wears so many of the gallery's hats, he's always on the lookout for Xavier Cones mixed media painting more assistants. The bottom line is that you Wes Carson - digital photography too, can volunteer at the gallery, meet intelligent Emerson Calderon - mixed media painting 37 � r C fx 'h9Y� J, °je i^r t S5 d 1 s 1t f i t j t y R fib 4 iS "going from one fire to ` another." - Flash Juan Osores mixed media painting Carlos Rodriguez mixed media painting Anibal Fernandez acrylic painting Also showing are work by Clutch, Craig Kirk, Karin Bradovka, Joe Gate, Sandra Halpern- Stein, Paul Lewin, Aenc Moskowitz, Gina Y Hubler, Jose Mdes, David Haskin, Cristina i Lasaga Martin Fernandez,Darlene Harris, , +� Gudrun Napp, Marguerite Gil, Danny Arenas, Elizabeth Del Fuze & Mark Amore, Robert e { "BeBob" Grabowski and Edna Michaeli. �4z., r" The Wallflower Gallery 10 N.E. 3rd St. in Downtown Miami, FL Check the calendar of events or make a 33132 donation at: www .myspace.com /wallflowergallery (P) 305 - 579 -0069 Check the Benefit & Awaerness Concerts at (F) 305-579-0050 www.myspace.com /medmj www. myspace.com /evergladesawareneps 38 closermagazine.com