MIAMI, Aug. 12, 2014 — (PRNewswire) — Lee Ann Lester, Director of Next Level Fairs ( http://nextlevelfairs.com/) and Sean McCormick, McCormick Place Miami ( http://www.mccormickplace-miami.com/) announce the formation of the Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD.) McCormick will serve as Chairman of the Board and Lester as Vice President.

MDAD is a non-profit organization that serves cultural institutions and museums; galleries, local artists and studios; as well as businesses, event venues, and restaurants that showcase both local and international artists. MDAD aims to unify the Downtown and Brickell Arts District by providing a variety of programs that allow the community to explore the arts district, such as First Friday Downtown Art Night, or provide exposure to smaller independent events through a variety of membership support services.

"MDAD will work in unison with community leaders and the DDA's [Miami Downtown Development Authority] initiatives to develop Downtown Miami as the cultural and business epicenter of the Americas," commented Lester. "Already over a billion dollars have been invested in arts and cultural institutions in the District drawing new culturally-minded, international visitors. Our goal is to provide artists, gallerists and the public with dynamic art venues, regular art programs and education to the greater Miami metro area."

A growing number of organizations have already extended their support including: Artisan Lounge, Life is Art, MDC Museum of Art + Design at the Freedom Tower, Dimensions Variable, Stephen Gamson Studios, SeaFair, McCormick Place Miami, CU-1 Gallery, AIA Miami, Florida Grand Opera, and The Art Experiences.

The Association will hold a VIP Kick-Off event and Press Conference at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2014 at McCormick Place Downtown Miami, 111 SW 3^rd St., Miami, FL 33130. The MDAD Association will announce its Board Members and guests will have an opportunity to know more about District events as part of DWNTWN Art Days, September 19-21, 2014 as well as future First Friday Downtown Art Nights and special events commencing Friday, November 7th "Art Basel Preview," and Friday, December 5^th Art Basel Miami Beach/Miami Art Week shows. The evening will include live performances, art installations, and more. A complimentary transportation service will be provided by FreeBee to participating arts venues.

For more information about Miami Downtown Arts District, visit: https://www.facebook.com/MiamiDowntownArtsDistrict, or contact Sean McCormick at 305.206.4734 or Email Contact.

SOURCE Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD) Association

Contact:

Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD) Association Lisa Morales, 786.205.2838 Email Contact