Why Be Exotic In Private?
Rogue Project Space, Manchester, June 2019.
The exhibition related to the performative nature of seaside holidaying and the stage set like atmosphere which this pleasure architecture creates. Informed by research into South Beach Miami’s 1930’s ‘Seaside Moderne’ architecture which was inspired by the long sweeping streamlined curves and details of ocean liners and the International Modernist style. Creating a ‘mise-en-scene’, the installation acted as a total artwork constructed from screen printed stage set panels, painted walls, site-specific prints and a collection of research ephemera.
More information on Steele’s research on the Miami Moderne blog here
Supported by Arts Council England, Le Lay Architects, Little Greene Paint Company, The Graphical Tree, Fred Aldous and Art Lab Contemporary Print Studios.
Left to right: The McAlpin, Senor Frogs and The Palm, Screen-print on wallpaper, paint on mdf, sizes variable
The Palm, Watercolour drawing on paper, 25cm x 18cm
Left to right: Original 1930-40’s from Miami Beach, USA, Various water colour drawings on paper of Miami Beach, 29cm x 21cm
Original postcard of The Vagabond Motel, Miami, designed by Robert Swartburg in 1953.
Original postcards of Lincoln Road and Poincianna Hotel, Miami Beach, c1930’s.
Original letter to customer from the Sea Isle Hotel, Miami Beach, 1948.