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All Members | Passages: An Immersive Experience in Art & Nature

  • Nest Gallery at Ernest Coe Visitor Center (Homestead entrance) 40001 State Highway 9336 Homestead, FL, 33034 United States (map)

1–2 PM | Passages Exhibition Opening & Artist Talk
2–2:30 PM | Lunch
2:30–4 PM | Enchanting Cypress Dome Immersive Walk, guided by artist Arsimmer McCoy
For all members, RSVP at
airiepassages.eventbrite.com 

On Saturday, January 28 at 1 PM, join us at the Nest Gallery for the opening of AIRIE's new exhibition Passages, curated by Creative Director and 2022 fellow Cornelius Tulloch. Revealing connections by recent artists-in-residence that were found or created in the Everglades, Passages celebrates stories of this natural landscape, and for many, captures a sense of purpose, place, and lineage. In addition to Cornelius, who helped kick off this special anniversary season of Commissioner in September 2022, participating artists include Arsimmer McCoy, Francisco Masó, Kunya Rowley, Lola Flash, M. Carmen Lane and Ania Freer. The exhibition and artist talk are free and open to all. If you would like to make a donation to support AIRIE’s work to connect artists to the environment, please visit airie.org.

Following the exhibition and artist talk at 2–2:30 PM, Commissioner guests will enjoy a picnic lunch on the terrace and are invited on a magical wet hike through the Everglades' most alluring habitat: the cypress dome.

Departing from the Ernest Coe Visitor Center (Homestead entrance) at 2:30 PM, experience the wonder of a shady submerged forest adorned with ferns, airplants and owls, as we wade comfortably through the refreshing waters of the River of Grass. With an Everglades National Park Ranger and 2022 AIRIE fellow Arsimmer McCoy as guides, hear both a scientific and artistic interpretation of this unique landscape. This is a bucket list experience for any Miami resident. We guarantee you will never see the Everglades the same again.


If you signed up for the Cypress Dome Walk, here's a link to everything you need to prepare for our adventure.

  • How do I get to the Cypress Dome? After lunch, everyone will drive 10-15 minute in their own cars to the designated area. Our Ranger will be leading the way and you will also receive the address on site.

  • What's appropriate attire? Long pants and closed-toed, lace-up shoes that can get wet.  Long shirt suggested. Walking sticks provided.  Bring a full change of clothes and shoes for post-hike. 

  • Will I get wet? Yes. You will be in water up to your knees, and even up to your upper thighs at some points. Bring a full change of clothes for your comfort after the hike.

  • Should I bring water? Yes. Bring your own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout our physical activity. 

  • Should I wear rain boots? No rain boots or waders as they fill with water. Lace up and closed-toe shoes are best, old sneakers are ideal. 

  • Who is guiding this tour? An Everglades Park Ranger will be leading the way along with artist and poet Arsimmer McCoy. We're in good hands.

  • Will this event still happen in case of rain? It all depends on the forecast, but we'll let you know of any changes to the program in advance.

Please note the Cypress Dome Walk is not recommended for individuals with limited mobility or accessibility considerations. Our first priority is the safety and comfort of our community, so if at any point you prefer to only join the exhibition opening and lunch, kindly update your RSVP on Eventbrite or let our team know upon arrival at the event. 

We understand things sometimes shift, and with your help, can be as prepared and accommodating as possible to ensure that everyone has a meaningful experience.