Of what surrounds me

On display through January 12, 2025, Of what surrounds me at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum brings together the works of Amanda Bradley, Cristina Lei Rodriguez and Mette Tommerup in an exploration of the natural world and its influence on the creative process. This exhibition draws inspiration from Mary Oliver’s poetry, encouraging visitors to engage in deep contemplation of the environment and its impact on identity, belonging and artistic expression.

Amanda Bradley's work delves into themes of identity and the unseen aspects of nature, often incorporating embossed lettering to blur the lines between image and text. Her photography, influenced by her homeland of Belize, captures the lushness and density of natural landscapes, offering a unique perspective on environmental imagery.

Cristina Lei Rodriguez, a Miami native, brings her intimate knowledge of the region’s vibrant flora and harsh climate into her sculptures, paintings and mixed media works. Her contributions to the exhibition include a monumental installation titled Endless Autumn, on loan from the Pérez Art Museum, and a new large-scale painting, both reflecting themes of time, decay and resilience.

Mette Tommerup, whose practice blends painting and sculpture, presents large-scale works that evoke underwater seascapes and natural topographies. A native of Denmark, Tommerup’s art is deeply rooted in the natural world, with new installations in this exhibition inspired by Mary Oliver’s poetry, aiming to envelop the viewer in an immersive experience.

Of what surrounds me invites visitors to reflect on the natural world as a source of meaning and artistic inspiration, offering a profound encounter with the works of three artists who navigate the intersection of nature and self through their art.