Israel "Reefa" Hernandez's life was abruptly ended when Miami Beach police officers tased him to death. But you can't kill art, and on walls across South Florida, Reefa lives forever.
That was especially true last night at the "#Justice4Reefa" art exhibit at LMNT on the beautiful Little Haiti side of Wynwood. The show was part of a weekend-long series of events protesting the artist's death, ending with a solidarity march this Sunday.
See also: Scenes From Israel "Reefa" Hernandez-Llach Vigil (Photos)
LMNT is a sprawling space on 36th street between Miami Ave and NW1st. It has its own parking lot, bar, and a couple of wide open rooms full of art.
The exhibit began early ...
...and lasted well into the night.
The event was put together with the help of 40 or so volunteers who form the Justice For Reefa committee, who meet weekly to strategize and organize.
Inside the gallery, tributes abound, like this one by artist Lola Blu.
Reefa's own art was also on display. Artist Rage from Inkheads, who has been painting since the '80s, said, "Look at all his pieces! I don't even have that many pieces...."
Here are some of Reefa's works:
Reefa's influence is ringing out in the streets, and on the gallery walls too. Here's another tribute piece.
Local artist and collector Evo Love checked out the show.
Artists like Quake, Rage, Atomik, Abstrk, and others have pieces showing too.
The show brought out a multigenerational crowd, with around 100 pieces on display.
Some works were so detailed they required an up-close look.
Don't forget to check out Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde on Saturday night to get hyped up for the big #JusticeForReefa march on South Beach.
And sign the online petition at bit.ly/justice4reefa.
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