The Art Deco saviour
This sculpture in Ocean Drive commemorates Barbara Baer Capitman (1920-1990). Moving to Miami Beach in 1973, she campaigned to save the Art Deco buildings that had fallen into disrepair. Recognising their unique character, she and fellow historic preservationists formed the Miami Design Preservation League in 1976. The League’s campaign to save the buildings from demolition bore fruit, leading to the placing of the Miami Beach Art Deco District on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
The renewed interest in the area has resulted in a cultural and economic rebirth, with new investments in hotels, apartments and restaurants that continues today. The Miami Beach Art Deco District has become a must-visit destination for tourists around the world, and a popular location for film-makers.
The Art Deco saviour
This sculpture in Ocean Drive commemorates Barbara Baer Capitman (1920-1990). Moving to Miami Beach in 1973, she campaigned to save the Art Deco buildings that had fallen into disrepair. Recognising their unique character, she and fellow historic preservationists formed the Miami Design Preservation League in 1976. The League’s campaign to save the buildings from demolition bore fruit, leading to the placing of the Miami Beach Art Deco District on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
The renewed interest in the area has resulted in a cultural and economic rebirth, with new investments in hotels, apartments and restaurants that continues today. The Miami Beach Art Deco District has become a must-visit destination for tourists around the world, and a popular location for film-makers.