Little River is a neighborhood well-known to older Miami natives, and has recently entered the radar of younger generations. One of Miami's oldest neighborhoods, Little River was established as an agricultural community. A natural evolution led to its development into one of Miami's most vibrant commercial, entertainment, and residential areas. Speak to those who grew up in Miami from the 1920's-1960's, and they'll fondly recall hamburgers and birch beer from Royal Castle, go-carting behind St. Mary's Cathedral, and movies at the Rosetta Theater. Having fallen into a decline after the development of Interstate 95 and the increased popularity of the shopping mall, this culturally diverse neighborhood, along with those that surround it (Little Haiti, West Little River, and the historic residential neighborhoods of El Portal and Palm Grove) is now experiencing another evolution - this time led by creative entrepreneurs.
Squad goals, indeed.
Gallery Diet is a contemporary art space originally established in Wynwood in 2007. A 2015 move to Little River saw an expansion of the space to include an outdoor courtyard for sculpture, performances, and events. The gallery produces exhibitions by emerging and established artists both from Miami (Nicolas Lobo and Emmett Moore, both based in Little River) and around the world (Katie Stout, George Woodman). Gallery Diet founder Nina Johnson-Milewski's side gig? Publishing The Miami Rail, the city's independent quarterly that provides critical coverage of art and design.
