In a remarkable milestone, Oolite Arts is commemorating four decades of fostering Miami's artistic community by distributing an unprecedented $600,000 in grants through The Ellies, the city's prestigious visual arts awards. This event will celebrate over 45 artists and art educators with a vibrant ceremony featuring live performances, DJ sets, and tributes to cultural icons. Esteemed philanthropists Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez from the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) are among those being honored, with awards presented by renowned figures in the arts world.

Artistic Milestones and Generous Recognition

On April 16, 2025, Oolite Arts marks its 40th anniversary with a grand celebration that highlights the transformative impact of its mission. Founded in memory of Ellie Schneiderman, The Ellies have distributed $3.6 million since their inception in 2018, making them one of Miami's most significant funding sources for visual artists. Among the honorees is T. Eliott Mansa, who receives the $25,000 Social Justice Award for his work celebrating Black lives. John Abodeely, the organization's new President & CEO, emphasized the importance of supporting bold artistic visions as part of this landmark year.

The ceremony takes place against a backdrop of Miami's rich cultural heritage, blending tradition and innovation to inspire both creators and audiences alike.

From a journalist's perspective, this event underscores the critical role of institutions like Oolite Arts in nurturing creativity and providing essential resources for artists to thrive. By recognizing social justice themes alongside artistic excellence, The Ellies set a powerful example of how art can drive meaningful change while celebrating human expression at its finest. This occasion not only honors past achievements but also looks forward to shaping the future of Miami's vibrant arts scene.