Miami Opens Public Voting for Underline Plinth Project
Residents can now vote for the inaugural sculpture for the biennial public art installation at The Underline.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Friends of The Underline has launched public voting to select the first sculpture for the biennial Underline Plinth Project. The initiative invites Miami residents to help shape the cultural identity of the 10-mile linear park.
Why it matters
The project serves as a centerpiece for the America250 campaign, encouraging residents to engage with local public spaces while reflecting on the American experience. By involving the community in the selection process, organizers aim to transform the park into a destination for collaborative public art.
The initiative involves selecting one winner from three finalists through a public vote open until Nov. 6, 2026. This process supports the broader America250 campaign, which commemorates 250 years of the nation.
The players
Friends of The Underline
This organization operates more than 200 free programs annually and manages the 10-mile linear park project.
The Underline Arts Advisory Council
The council is responsible for evaluating artistic excellence and reviewing public input to finalize the sculpture selection.
The details
The finalists include artists Carlos Betancourt and Alberto Latorre, Morel Doucet, and Kennedy Yanko, all of whom have designed works addressing what it means to be an American today. The Underline Arts Advisory Council will ultimately select the winner based on a combination of public input and artistic excellence.
Timeline
Nov. 6, 2026: Deadline for Miami residents to submit votes.
Mid-December 2026: Announcement of the competition winner.
Spring 2027: Debut of the winning sculpture at the Inter Grove Gallery.
Political Context
This project aligns with the national America250 campaign, which seeks to integrate civic celebrations into local landscapes. Critics of such projects often argue that public funds or spaces should prioritize maintenance and utility over rotating aesthetic installations.
Miami residents can directly influence the aesthetic and cultural landscape of the city by casting their votes on the organization's portal. Participation ensures that the chosen installation at the Inter Grove Gallery reflects local perspectives on American identity.
The takeaway
Engaging with local art installations provides a way for residents to contribute to the long-term identity of public spaces. Taking the time to participate in initiatives like this ensures that communal areas remain representative of the public that uses them daily.
What happens next
Public voting closes on Nov. 6, 2026, with the official winner scheduled to be announced by the organization in mid-December 2026.
Further reading
For more information on how to get involved, visit the Civic Engagement section.
More information
To review the artist concepts or cast your ballot, visit the public sculpture voting portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miami Today.
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Do you believe public voting helps improve the art installed in your community's public spaces?
