Miami, FL – January 6, 2025 – In a breathtaking fusion of art, science, and environmental awareness, Miami’s largest rooftop mural has been unveiled atop the Southeast Financial Center (SEFC). Spanning an incredible 35,000 square feet, the masterpiece by internationally acclaimed French artist Youri Cansell, known as Mantra, captivates with its hyper-realistic depictions of butterflies, including the endangered ‘Miami Blue,’ a species native to South Florida.
Curated by Justkids Art Consulting, this extraordinary project showcases Mantra’s signature trompe-l’oeil technique, bringing a diverse array of butterfly species to life with remarkable precision. Each butterfly appears delicately perched, an awe-inspiring illusion that combines artistry and entomological accuracy. The mural serves as a poignant commentary on the loss of biodiversity, urging viewers to appreciate and protect nature’s fragile ecosystems.
“It’s always a pleasure to paint in Miami, a city that thrives on its vibrant mix of people and cultures—much like the butterflies in my mural, which represent a diverse selection of specimens,” said Mantra. “This is my largest mural to date, and I am excited to see it come to life.”
The creation of the mural was a technical and physical challenge. Over 400 hours and 200 gallons of paint were required to complete the artwork, which was executed entirely freehand using rollers. Mantra’s process excluded the use of grids or projections, a testament to his unparalleled skill and artistic precision. The mural’s location—on SEFC’s rooftop—presented unique obstacles, including strong winds and morning dampness from the nearby ocean, which the artist overcame during the six-week endeavor.
This massive installation transforms what was once a functional garage rooftop into a vibrant visual spectacle, visible to tenants and the occupants of neighboring residential and commercial towers. SEFC’s commitment to fostering cultural innovation and elevating Downtown Miami’s status as a creative hub is evident in this significant commission.
Mantra’s work is more than an aesthetic marvel; it is a call to action. His murals highlight the alarming decline of biodiversity while celebrating the beauty and importance of small, often-overlooked species. By scaling his subjects to monumental proportions, Mantra invites viewers to reflect on humanity’s connection to the natural world and the urgent need for conservation.
Southeast Financial Center is a defining landmark in Miami’s skyline. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, SEFC is Florida’s largest and most iconic office tower. Its commitment to blending modernity, prestige, and community has made it a cornerstone of Downtown Miami’s vibrant business and cultural scene.
Youri Cansell, aka Mantra, is a French artist and naturalist whose fascination with insects stems from childhood memories of his garden in France. Now based in Switzerland and Mexico City, Mantra combines scientific exploration and artistic expression to create large-scale murals that are both visually striking and ecologically significant. His work is celebrated worldwide for its detailed depictions of moths and butterflies.
JUSTKIDS.ART is a multidisciplinary art consulting firm specializing in curating and producing public art and placemaking projects. Their work connects leading contemporary artists with communities, creating unforgettable experiences that celebrate visual culture.
The unveiling of Miami’s largest rooftop mural is a milestone in the city’s cultural evolution, blending artistry with a powerful message of environmental stewardship. Mantra’s awe-inspiring work invites us all to pause, reflect, and cherish the delicate beauty of our natural world.
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by Sami Wakim via street art united states
