Laundromat Art Space is pleased to present HuMaN NATURE, a group exhibition of works by artists Jodi Minnis, Joyce Billet, Hander Lara, Michelle Rusinek, and Pablo Matute; curated by Ross Karlan and Sophia Ballesteros.

HuMaN NATURE explores how five artists reflect on their natural surroundings while exploring their own place, and displacement, within the geographic triangle of Havana, Miami, and Nassau. Despite their cultural, historical, and social differences, these three cultural centers are connected by a close proximity — the furthest points being only 300 miles from each other — and the resulting similarities in nature; the flora, fauna, and an environmentally Caribbean identity. Each artist reflects on this environmental connection and identity in varying ways, whether historical, ecological, or deeply personal. As a group these artists show the interconnectedness of humanity and the individual’s own reflection of their natural world.

Jodi Minnis, for example, looks specifically at the history of her native Bahamas blending tropical symbols with the island nation’s colonial, economic, and ecological history, juxtaposing the natural surroundings with notions of tourism and the police. Miami native Pablo Matute uses materials of the tropics, specifically the palm husk, to contextualize the multiculturalism found within natural materials connecting the Caribbean and South American communities amongst which he grew up. Similarly personal, Cuban-born Hander Lara uses nature as a vehicle through which he reckons with his own displacement, fleeing Havana for Miami well into adulthood. Captivated by his travels once in the United States, his photographs show a stark reflective contrast to the tropics he left behind. Finally, Miami-based artists Joyce Billet and Michelle Rusinek, who currently call Miami home, look at broader concepts of nature and its relationship to humanity. Billet turns to natural materials to explore the effects of people on their environment, alluding to the decay of nature, deforestation, and more. At the same time, Rusinek’s colorful abstract forms pull inspiration from the cosmos, foliage, aerial vistas, and even microscope images as she looks at the intricate connections between all living things.

HuMaN NATURE opens at Laundromat Art Space (185 NE 59th Street Miami, FL 33137) with an opening reception April 6, 2024 from 6 - 9 pm., sponsored by Suite Habana Cafe and Havana Club rum. The exhibition will be on view April 6 through May 5. Laundromat Art Space is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 12 - 4pm. Please contact info@laundromatartspace.com or elisa@sophiaballesteros.com for Sunday - Wednesday appointments as well as artwork prices and availability.