Miami artist launches ‘community-led climate action campaign’

MIAMI – Miami’s eco-artist Xavier Cortada, a lawyer, said his latest public art project aims to empower residents to join the climate movement.

The artist’s trip to Antarctica about 15 years ago was life-changing. It gave him a tremendous sense of purpose, he said.

“Scientists gave me a chunk of ice, put it in my hand, and said, ‘This is going to melt and drown your city,’” Cortada said.

He described his newest installation, “The Underwater,” as a “community-led climate action campaign.” Each piece is made out of environmentally sustainable concrete.

“This is hyper-personal, affecting the thing that is valued most, your home,” Cortada said.

The sculptures look like underwater markers to display elevation. The installation includes hundreds of QR codes to guide new activists.

“If you know that the things you love and value the most are affected, the hope is that you’ll take action,” Cortada said.

The project includes more than 280 pieces to be displayed at Matheson Hammock Park & Marina and other public parks across Miami-Dade County.

Cortada has the support of County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

“Art is, actually, a way to people’s hearts,” she said. “When you connect emotionally with people, people can really hear the message.”