Guardian of the Great Miami Beach Banyan Tree

On June 30, the sun came out to celebrate our Season Five finale with artist Michele Oka Doner at The Kampong Garden. In a conversation with Cristina Gonzalez of Primary, Michele opened up about the differences between making art and making a living and letting go of the illusion of control. She offered a much-needed reminder to slow down and observe.

For Commissioner Collectors, Michele created 50 original drawings using bark foraged from trees near the iconic Carl Fisher Clubhouse in Miami Beach on handmade paper. A meditative and laborious process, every image reveals the artist’s hand, and each is uniquely titled and signed. In addition to the artwork, each Collector received a signed copy of the artist’s book Intuitive Alphabet. 

We’re overjoyed to be emerging stewards of Michele and to add her original piece to our Season Five collection, which now includes photography by Anastasia Samoylova, fiber work by Michelle Lisa Polissaint, and sculpture by Lee Pivnik. Overwhelming gratitude to our members, whose collaborative support through membership has made these artist commissions possible.  

Thank you to Guitars Over Guns, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Liquid Death for the live music and libations. Big respect to the entire team at The Kampong for supporting our mission and believing in the power of artists.

Relive the experience through the lens of remarkable photographers Chantal Lawrie and Andrea Lorena. Our hearts are full.