The Miami Marine Stadium was once known for its many world-class powerboat events, music concerts, political events, boxing tournaments, and Sunday services. Its 6,566 seat site was built by architect Hilario Candela in the Fall of 1963 right off of Virginia Key Beach.
The modernist icon was the first powerboat venue in the United States, but after the harsh casualties caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the building was declared unsafe by Miami-Dade County. Although the building still remains entirely intact to this day, it has been closed out to the public.
“An abandoned building you say? Perfect. Let’s go paint our names on it”— said every kid with a spray can.
Graffiti has existed since ancient times, dating back to Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The concept of writing symbols, words, meaningful messages on walls, the simple indication that you have left your mark somewhere in the world is the very foundation of graffiti. Although the Miami Marine Stadium stayed closed to the public, that never stopped a rebel from cutting open a gate with a pair of pliers. The open gate is an invitation to all, whether you’re there to paint, take pictures, skate, or just admire the bay, it has become a home to many. A safe haven to the graffiti community, an outlet, a gold mine in the eye of the painter. Many artists feel that the stadium serves as their canvas to practice their skills, creating beautiful masterpieces. What was once forgotten after a lineage of history, has now been brought back to life. These walls have a pulse.
On February 20, 2008, Miami-Dade County formed the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium (FMMS). The first plan in more than 20 years that indicates the restoration and operation of the establishment. Since then, the county has pushed to commence the historical preservation, to once again operate as a venue. FMMS submitted business plans in 2012 and is currently guiding the restoration of the stadium with the help of architect Hilario Candela, as he oversees the plans.
This past June 28, famous singer Gloria Estefan, celebrated Miami Marine Stadium by hosting a “Day of Art and Action.” She contributed $500,0000 to the restoration of the stadium, having had past concerts in the venue she felt that she can help renew the historic monument.
FMMS is using graffiti as a way to raise funds for the restoration of the stadium, they have brought in artists from around the world to create new art pieces that were photographed and sold off as prints. The city has given FMMS until January of 2015 to raise $30 million in assets. Candela hopes to incorporate some of the graffiti into the new and improved stadium.
For more information, or to help with the restoration efforts, visit www.marinestadium.org
