Beyond the Brush:
The Essence of Creative Expression
Beyond the Brush: The Essence of Creative Expression is a cross-disciplinary documentary and exhibition project that reimagines how we experience art and the artists behind it. Through six mini-documentaries, original artworks, and interactive programming, the project explores the intersections of identity, culture, and creativity within South Florida’s vibrant arts community.
Hosted at MAD Arts in Dania Beach and funded by the Broward Cultural Division and the Community Foundation of Broward, Beyond the Brush invites audiences to connect deeply with the people, stories, and passions that shape artistic expression.
Upcoming events
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Exhibition
July 16 – August 2, 2026
MAD Arts | Dania Beach, FloridaOpening Reception, Thursday, July 16th 2026
Step inside the worlds of Yochi Y. Avin, Marina Font, Karla Kantorovich, Magda Love, Aurora Morali, and Lisu Vega, where immersive documentaries reveal their stories alongside original artworks that transform process, inspiration, and memory into vivid, tactile experiences.
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Workshop
July 25, 2026 MAD Arts | Dania Beach
Storytelling Through the Lens: An Introduction to Filmmaking for Artists empowers creatives to transform their artwork, processes, and stories into captivating films. Using accessible tools like smartphones and free editing apps, participants learn to craft visual narratives, amplify their voices, and share their art with the world.
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Conversation
July 18th, 2026
Voices & Visions: Artist Panel Discussion: Step into the minds of six featured artists and the filmmaker as they reveal the inspirations, stories, and processes behind their work. Guided by a local curator, this session sparks conversation, insight, and connection, inviting audiences to experience creativity from the inside out.
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The Artists
Discover the women visual artists behind Beyond the Brush—multidisciplinary creators sharing their journeys, inspirations, and visions.
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The Filmmaker
Emmy-winning Cuban-American photojournalist, filmmaker, and mixed-media artist Taimy Alvarez explores identity, memory, and cultural heritage through photography, film, and mixed-media artwork. She creates award-winning documentaries and art that bridge artists’ stories with audiences, fostering dialogue and connection.
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The Project
Beyond the Brush: The Essence of Creative Expression is a cross-disciplinary documentary and exhibition project that transforms how artists’ stories are shared and experienced. By going beyond the canvas, it unveils the people behind the art—their backgrounds, techniques, inspirations, and creative journeys—inviting audiences into intimate, immersive encounters that deepen understanding and connection.
With Gratitude
This project is made possible through the generous support of the Broward Cultural Division and the Community Foundation of Broward, alongside MAD Arts and its founder, Marc Aptakin. Backed by a 2026 Broward Innovation Grant, their commitment to fostering local creativity transforms artists’ voices into immersive experiences, celebrating South Florida’s vibrant and diverse artistic landscape.
Broward Cultural Division
Community Foundation of Broward
MAD Arts, 481 S Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL.