ART

Aside from various dining and entertainment choices, The Plaza Coral Gables is also home to several exceptional public art exhibits. Among the prominent pieces on display is Jean-Michel Othoniel’s Coral Fountains, an enigmatic fountain sculpture composed of mirrored beads in twisted, symmetrical forms; Tony Cragg’s Mean Average, a deep brown construction of materials merged into abstract, unconventional shapes; and Michele Oka Doner’s Monumental Ritual Bench, a functional bronze bench and radial ring that intertwines with surrounding nature.

Coral Fountains by Jean-Michel Othoniel

Located in the heart of the North Plaza, Jean-Michel Othoniel’s Coral Fountains symbolizes Coral Gables’ reputation as the pearl of South Florida. The sculpture displays intricate strings of stainless steel mirrored beads arranged symmetrically to resemble organic forms found in twisting corals and dancing seahorses. The perpetual movement of the piece is extended by water gushing from the jets, illuminating infinite shimmering reflections of lively sea creatures. 

Mean Average by Tony Cragg

Standing tall at the Ponce de Leon entrance of the Plaza, Tony Cragg’s Mean Average welcomes visitors while defining the area as a place of relaxation and beauty. The towering sculpture’s essence lies in its promotion of materials, but its true significance lies in its ability to prompt contemplation among viewers. Composed of mediums merged into obscure yet familiar shapes, the sculpture encourages viewers to approach their surroundings with a fresh perspective.

Monumental Ritual Bench by Michele Oka Doner

Oka Doner’s Monumental Ritual Bench is an aesthetically pleasing gathering and resting point central to the Plaza. The cast bronze table and encircling symmetric bench reflect the surrounding greenery and ocean blues, and a large tree with hanging copper lanterns serves as a focal point of the piece. The functional sculpture promotes themes of integrating art with nature and community. 

Rey del Tequila by Leonora Carrington

The Rey del Tequila sculpture, constructed by British-born surrealist artist Leonora Carrington, represents her profound connection to Mexican culture and her trailblazing contributions to the surrealist movement. Crafted in cast bronze and soaring to a commanding height of 128 inches, the sculpture captures the essence of a zoomorphic being emerging from the alchemical heart of the agave plant.  Through its fusion of modernity, cultural resonance, and inclusivity, the “Rey del Tequila” sculpture encapsulates Carrington’s dedication to redefining art’s boundaries by introducing a woman’s perspective to a previously male-dominated artistic realm. 

WAITING by KAWS

WAITING by KAWS is an evocative sculpture that embodies the interconnectedness of familial bonds and communal empathy. Cast in a serene grey bronze and standing at an impressive 16 feet, this piece marks the completion of KAWS’ WAITING series. Symbolizing a guardian-like figure with a smaller companion, it resonates with the themes of care and silent solidarity. 

WAITING enriches the visual landscape of the Plaza and further portrays modernity and inclusiveness, reflecting KAWS’s innovative approach to contemporary art and his ability to capture universal emotions in his work.