HONORED TO HAVE MY FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY SHOWCASED IN SAUDADES

BOOK PRE-SALE PHASE LAUNCHING AT BOOKS & BOOKS

I kicked off the weekend among fellow creatives at Books & Books in Coral Gables, which will by the Miami headquarters for the book’s pre-sale phase and major release party (October 4.)

Pre-sale copies will be in the Art/Anthology section of legendary independent bookseller.

Statement from Editor/Chief Contributor/Siren Amy Serrano:

On behalf of all participating artists, I am so proud to share this beautiful book with you!

After living with the word Saudade for about 5 years now, exploring it, understanding it, feeling it, living it, listening to music about it, and writing about it through the prism of my own experiences, in the end the word is really about LOVE.

Love lost, Love yearned for, Love that remains, Love of a place, Love of the self you wished you had become and/or still hope to recover, and the convergence of many of these aspects of saudade through the element of Time, time, TIME

The word saudade, in its plural form “Saudades” spoke to me deeply and I believe this emotion, this feeling may also speak to you, it is universal…

Buy the book in person or order it today from Books & Books

Then come meet the artists during the official book release on October 4 also @Books&Books.

We will have red wine and red roses for you along with a few other surprises and we will sign your copy!

(photo is with a few of the Miami Artists Carlos A. Navarro Jonathan Rose and Steve Wright with the book’s wonderful publicist, Maru Lanao )

I HAVE AN IMDB ENTRY

NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE ON INTERNET MOVIE DATABASE

Thanks to Ron Small, Paul Bookman and the wonderful team making the documentary “Mark – A Call to Action” – I’m on IMDB.

I appear in the 90-minute film portraying a life well-lived by Ivy League-educated global disability leader/influencer Mark Bookman. Mark achieved 100 years of brilliance in a life the ended at age 31.

To continue his legacy of inclusive design and much more, I’m on camera talking about the positives – from safer pedestrian mobility to aging in place – that come with Universal Design and town planning that includes people with disabilities.

As a cast member, I have a brief listing on IMDB – one of the 50 most-visited sites on the internet.

The film debuts in Tokyo in February. I hope to be there – with the team that has made me a part of the family.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26931769/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49tk8fKAJxo

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"I highly recommend Steve Wright for any future projects or initiatives that involve Universal Design or the promotion of accessibility. 

His expertise and commitment to inclusivity will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact on the communities he serves." 

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

 

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"Steve Wright's ability to communicate concepts in an accessible manner was evident, and his passion for Universal Design shone through in every aspect of his presentation. 

Steve's contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization, and we are immensely grateful for his dedication and expertise. 

His commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility aligns perfectly with our mission to create a Downtown Detroit that is welcoming to everyone."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"While in town, Steve Wright delivered an engaging and informative visual presentation during to DDP leadership and team. 

His presentation, which lasted approximately one hour, allowed ample time for questions and answers, fostering a productive and insightful dialogue."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

 

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"Within 30 days of the tour, as per the agreed-upon timeframe, Steve Wright submitted a concise yet comprehensive report summarizing his observations, recommendations, and suggestions. 

The report was well-structured and provided actionable insights that are now being used as a guide to inform future design and development initiatives within the Downtown Detroit area. 

Steve's expertise and attention to detail contributed to the quality of this report and its value to our organization."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT 

"Steve Wright's assignment with DDP was to conduct a comprehensive walking tour on Monday, June 12, 2023, in the company of key members of our team.

The purpose of the tour was to highlight Universal Design issues and identify opportunities to enhance accessibility and inclusivity within our city center. 

Steve's guidance and insights during the 90-minute walking tour were invaluable.

He demonstrated a deep understanding of Universal Design principles, and his ability to articulate the importance of creating spaces that are accessible to all members of the community was thoughtful."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

 AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"I am writing to provide a recommendation for Steve Wright and the services he provided during his engagement with the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP).

Steve's expertise in Universal Design and his commitment to promoting inclusivity have had an important impact on our organization and the Downtown Detroit community as DDP continues its stewardship of our downtown."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

A STORY IN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Steve Wright's photography effectively emphasized the need to preserve Little Havana's cultural and architectural treasures from the influence of modernization.

His images will serve as a reminder of their timeless beauty and the crucial significance of protecting them for future generations to possibly and really Save My Little Havana.

 

 

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

A STORY IN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Next to the Save My Little Havana art display, the gift shop exhibited Steve Wright's photographs that could be bought.

The exhibit also had artworks for sale, and half of the profits went towards supporting the Miami Design Preservation League's cause. 

The exhibit runs through Thanksgiving and is on display 9 AM to 5 PM at the art deco welcome center seven days a week and the center is free to Miami-Dade residents

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

A STORY IN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Steve Wright noted, "My photos are not the most technically perfect, but they are filled with passion." 

He compared the efforts to preserve historic buildings in Miami Beach to the importance of safeguarding the architectural treasures of Art Deco, the Mediterranean, and Old Florida styles found in Little Havana.

The event, held on August 24, provided attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating imagery that depicted the heart and soul of Little Havana. 

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

Steve Wright's photographs may not be flawlessly polished, but they are filled with a clear sense of dedication that shows his strong attachment to Little Havana.

As a respected public speaker, organizer, and journalist committed to improving access to urban areas for individuals with disabilities, Wright's display demonstrated his identity as both an artist and a supporter.

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

A STORY IN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

In the late 1990s, Ohioan Steve Wright moved to Little Havana in Miami to escape harsh Ohio winters.

He found solace in the historic Bryan Park area and made his home in a classic 100-year-old residence.

He found inspiration in his new surroundings and started taking long walks to take pictures.

With his camera, he was able to capture the true essence of the community, exploring beyond the popular areas and discovering hidden treasures in the neighborhoods, businesses, churches, and homes of La Pequeña Habana.

SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA

A STORY IN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Miami Beach witnessed a remarkable celebration of culture, history, and architectural heritage.

Steve Wright, an accomplished Artist, Activist, Writer, and Planner, unveiled his captivating photography exhibit titled "Save My Little Havana."

The MDPL's Local Artist Program hosted this exhibition at the Art Deco Welcome Center, showcasing lesser-known aspects of Little Havana through the lens of Wright.

“SAVE MY LITTLE HAVANA” EXHIBIT OPENING

EXHIBIT OPENING

A vibrant new photography exhibit is headed to the Art Deco Museum at the Art Deco Welcome Center, as part of its revamped Featured Local Artist program.

“Save My Little Havana” by writer and photographer Steve Wright tells the story of his neighborhood’s many historic residential and commercial buildings.

Join us for the exhibit opening at 6 p.m. Thursday, August 24th at the Art Deco Museum.

The exhibition will be on display until mid-November. As part of the featured local artist program, photographs will be available for sale with 1/2 of proceeds benefitting the Miami Design Preservation League.

https://mdpl.org/event/save-my-little-havana-exhibit-opening/

PROUD TO HAVE PRESENTED AT 58th INTERNATIONAL MAKING CITIES LIVABLE

A CITY THAT LOVES ITS SIDEWALKS SERVES 100 PERCENT OF ITS CONSTITUENTS

Disability is a normal part of life.

WHO stats count more than 1 billion PWDs on earth and one in five experiencing some level of disability.

Fixing sidewalks, pathways and connectivity is the best way to boost quality of life for PWDs.

Regulations must be enacted to protect sidewalks from abandoned dockless scooters creating impossible barriers on the sidewalk and its brethren curb ramp and cross walk.

Policy must ensure that sidewalk funds are distributed to poor and marginalized neighborhoods – not simply CBDs, tourist and influential areas.

Steve Wright, Storyteller/Advocate/Educator/Planner

Wright has four decades of experience in urban design, planning, architecture, mobility, sustainability and universal design.

He co-created a groundbreaking universal design course at the University of Miami School of Architecture, team taught with his wife of 33 years – ADA expert Heidi Johnson-Wright.

Wright’s storytelling has advised dozens of clients on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility – with a focus on advocacy for people with disabilities.  

His award-winning reporting frequently appears in Planning magazine and he has presented at FLA APA.  

The Kent State graduate served as Urban Policy Advisor to the Miami City Commission Chairman. 

https://www.imcl.online/post/one-week-until-imcl-2022

HONORED TO BE PRESENTING AT 58th INTERNATIONAL MAKING CITIES LIVABLE

GRATIFIED TO BE SPEAKING ON UNIVERSAL DESIGN IN PARIS

I will be delivering a full presentation plus moderating a panel at the IMCL global gathering in Le Plessis-Robinson, France May 18-20, 2022.

“The Humble Sidewalk: Essential Urban Investment for Inclusion, Equality and Accessibility,” -- Steve Wright, Writer-Planner, Miami, Florida, USA.

More speaking, collaborating and consulting in Western Europe to come.

Before the year is out, possible teaching/leadership opportunities in India and Turkey.

https://www.imcl.online/post/one-week-until-imcl-2022

https://www.imcl.online/post/one-week-until-imcl-2022

HONORED TO ADVOCATE FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN

THANKS TO KENT STATE UNIVERSITY FOR FEATURING MY WORK

I am honored to share my story of using my communication skills to advocate for Universal Design in Planning, Architecture, Engineering, Urban Design, Public Policy, Mobility, Transit, Landscape Architecture and more.

I appreciate it that Jargon, the digital publication of Kent’s School of Media and Journalism, published my essay on activism and pro-bono work on diversity, equity and inclusion – through the lens of wheelchair access.

The full essay – with an inset piece on proper language for writing about people with disabilities, is here:

https://www.kent.edu/mdj/news/kent-where-lifetime-passionate-storytelling-and-advocacy-people-disabilities-was-born-and

HOT TOWN

SUMMER IN THE CITY

Hot town, summer in the city

Back of my neck getting dirty and gritty

Been down, isn't it a pity?

Doesn't seem to be a shadow in the city

All around, people looking half dead

Walking on the sidewalk, hotter than a match head

HOPING TO SURVIVE IRMA

MIAMI, CAN YOU BE AT LEAST AS RESILIENT AS NEW ORLEANS AFTER KATRINA?

          (a bizarre triptych of mattress, boat filled with tires and burned out car at a NOLA cemetery)

Within the next 24 hours, our lives could change like never before.

Hurricane Irma, with record high winds and Category 5+ strength, could take our possessions, take our house, take our cash reserves, take our pets or take our lives.

Most likely, the best case scenario is we will suffer moderate to significant damage to our nearly 100-year-old house and our vehicles -- including Heidi's $75,000 wheelchair ramp-equipped specialty van.

We care for more than a half dozen outside cats, and worry if they will drown or be felled by debris.

We had both a brand new roof and impact-resistance windows -- at a cost of far more than $50,000 -- installed within the past decade.

Both passed city inspection, but who knows if they will stand up to a storm whose size and ferocity may make Hurricane Andrew look like a weakling.

Even if it steers north or south -- a miracle to us equaling devastation to the Keys or county north of us -- and we get the effect of a Category 1 or 2 from the outer bands....we can count on days, likely weeks without power.

Heidi's wheelchair will run out of juice.

We will take cold showers and endure brutally hot South Florida late summer nights with no AC or fans.

Wilma and Katrina knocked out power in Little Havana for 5 and 7 days.

We lost the contents of the fridge, etc.

With every expert saying Irma is the worst on record, and something named Jose not far behind, we are actually rooting for a half month of no electricity and maybe $10K of damage.

That seems like just about the most fortunate scenario, along with hundreds of hours spent working to repair damage or volunteer to help neighbors harder hit or less fortunate.

For those of you in South Florida, we share your fear and trepidation.

For those of you in the rest of the U.S., please keep us in your thoughts.

Maybe skim off a little excess positive energy and send it our way.

As soon as we wake up from the nightmare, will try to post something to tell everyone we're surviving.

(Central City New Orleans House boarded up more than a decade after Hurricane Katrina)