On April 1, a new major art installation by Facundo Yebne will debut on Lincoln Road to celebrate both Miami Beach Pride (March 27 – April 6) and International Pride Month (June).
Crafted from resin and made with thousands of multicolored rubber ducks, "Proud Love" and "UnityBreak" will be on view from April 1 through June 30, adding some rainbow-hued excitement to Miami's popular commercial district.
“Lincoln Road has always been a place for inclusion and community,” said Lyle Stern, president of the Lincoln Road Business Improvement District, in an official statement. “The sculptures featured in this installation transcend traditional art forms; they reflect the values of acceptance and unity that are so important in today’s society. We are honored to host this powerful installation, which serves not only as a tribute to the LGBTQ+ community but also as a testament to the transformative power of love in bringing us together.”
Passerby will immediately notice both structures. "Proud Love" is an 8-foot-tall heart made of approximately 5,000 rubber ducks, each one a little over two inches in size and arranged in the colors of the Pride flag.
"Its design reflects the courage to love openly and celebrate love in all forms," reads an official press release.
Then there is "UnityBreak," which shows two ducks kissing, crafted from about 16,000 rubber characters of just over one inch. This specific artwork emphasizes the idea that strength lies in numbers.
In addition to the installations, the city of Miami has already started celebrating all things Pride along Lincoln Road by wrapping entry plants and concrete bollards in rainbow-hued sleeves, each one displaying a unique diagonal design that evokes local elements like sun rays, wildflowers, terrazzo and breeze blocks, plus variations of the pride flag and inclusive messaging.
Clearly, Miami does it best.