Brightline Commemorates Black History Month With in-Station Art Exhibit

MIAMI, FL – Brightline, the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity rail in America, has partnered with The Black Archives History and Research Foundation of South Florida for Black History Month to host an art installation featuring original works by Purvis Young, a renowned artist who was born in Liberty City and lived and painted in historic Overtown. Brightline’s headquarters and MiamiCentral station are also located in Overtown, and the collaboration underscores its commitment to support and positively impact local communities throughout South Florida.

Timothy Barber, Michele Burger, Patrick Goddard, Commissioner Sally Heyman, Dr. Dorothy Fields, Commissioner Keon HardemonExclusive to Brightline’s MiamiCentral station, guests can view the Purvis Young exhibit throughout the month of February inside the Premium Lounge. The complimentary display features 19 original pieces, along with a QR code that links to a video of the artist detailing his works and creation process, all courtesy of The Black Archives, a non-profit organization that collects and preserves the rapidly vanishing material that reflects the African American experience in Miami-Dade County.

“When our neighbors at Brightline approached us with this idea for a collaboration, it made a lot of sense for us,” said Timothy A. Barber, Black Archives Executive Director. “Historically, the train tracks have been a line of demarcation between communities, and this partnership connecting The Black Archives with Brightline signifies the continued growth of this city—anchored by its history and the merging of cultures in the communities it serves.

“Purvis was a part of this community and he documented the community,” Barber continued. “Some of the pieces I selected for this exhibition depict trains, some feature tall buildings, and some signify hope and the goodness in people with Young’s signature haloed angels. These particular Purvis Young selections, I feel embody what Brightline signifies in the community: travel, city life, and the hope that comes with change and growth.”

Located just minutes from the Historic Overtown neighborhood,  riders traveling on Brightline to MiamiCentral can also conveniently visit The Black Archives and Historic Lyric Theater, as well as other iconic local destinations, including Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum, Dorsey House, Red Rooster, and Lil Greenhouse Grill.

“Connecting communities has always been a priority of Brightline’s, and what better way to keep the culturally diverse communities in South Florida connected during Black History Month through this inspiring exhibition celebrating the late artist Purvis Young,” said Patrick Goddard, president of Brightline. “The Black Archives are an integral part of the community and we are honored they selected us as a partner for this exhibition.”

Throughout 2022, Brightline will continue its engagement with local community partners to positively impact, transform, and educate South Florida and beyond.