MIAMI, May 19, 2026 — In recognition of the United States’ 250th anniversary, Miami Dade College (MDC) presents American Abstractions 2026, an exhibition exploring the enduring legacy of Abstract Expressionism — the first distinctly American movement to shape the global art narrative.
The exhibition, organized by 7 Plus One Art Project, will be on view at the West Campus Gallery (Room 1105) through Sept. 4, 2026. An opening reception will be held Wednesday, May 20, from noon to 2 p.m. The exhibition is free and open to the public.
Emerging in the mid-20th century, Abstract Expressionism marked a pivotal shift in artistic expression, positioning the United States — particularly New York — as a new epicenter of contemporary art and creative freedom.
Directed by Emilio Héctor Rodriguez, founder and artistic director of 7 Plus One Art Project, and curated by Pedro Hernandez, this exhibition reflects on that legacy through the work of a diverse group of Miami-based artists, many of whom are immigrants who have embraced the United States as their home. Their work continues the spirit of abstraction, valuing individual voice, emotional intensity and freedom of expression — principles deeply tied to the American experience.
Featured artists include:
- Maruchi Carmona — Cuba
- Blanca Caraballo — Cuba
- Bibiana Cervantes — Colombia
- Ivonne Ferrer — Cuba
- Sandra Garcia-Pardo — Colombia
- Carlos Llanes — Cuba
- Mila Hajjar — Italy/Venezuela
- Pedro Hernandez — Cuba
- Beatriz Ramirez — Colombia
- Emilio Héctor Rodriguez — Cuba
- Marilyn Valiente — Cuba
- Carmen Verdura — Spain
As part of MDC’s America 250 celebration, the exhibition invites the community to engage with art as a lens through which to examine the nation’s cultural evolution. It underscores how artistic movements such as Abstract Expressionism embody the ideals of freedom, innovation and identity, while also highlighting the contributions of global perspectives that continue to shape the American story.
American Abstractions 2026 celebrates not only a milestone in the nation’s history, but also the role of art in reflecting and advancing the values that define it. Through abstraction, these artists create a visual dialogue about belonging, transformation and the ongoing pursuit of creative and personal freedom.
Download promotional image here
Image information: Collage featuring works included in the exhibition. Credit: 7 Plus One.
For more information, please contact Carine Bernadin at (305)237-8907, cbernadi@mdc.edu.
WHAT: MDC Presents American Abstractions 2026
WHEN: On view May 20 through Sept. 4, 2026
Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: MDC West Campus Gallery
3800 NW 115th Ave., Room 1105
Doral, FL 33178