Miami's Own Miguel Paredes Named Official Artist of the 12th Annual Latin Grammys

As if we needed any more proof that Miami (and by extension, Florida) is badass, the Latin Recording Academy announced yesterday that local artist Miguel Paredes would be the official artist of this year's Latin Grammy festivities. That means the New York native who now lives and works in Miami, will have his artwork all over the event, from the official poster to the invitations, show tickets, program book and other collateral.

Paredes' selection was made public yesterday at the same press conference in which they revealed this year's Latin Grammy nominees. Make the jump to see Miguel's Latin Grammys poster.

Paredes, a one time tagger and graffiti artist in NYC who parlayed his

talent to the world of high art, has become a mainstay of Miami's art

scene,

including having been featured as the artist-in-residence at the

National Hotel at last year's Art Basel Miami Beach. He's also been

recognized by several cities for his support of historic preservation

and community efforts to promote art.

Paredes graffiti and pop art pedigree - he mentored under pop artist and

assistant to Andy Warhol, Ronnie Cutrone - convinced the Latin

Recording Academy to sign up our boy.   "In keeping with the progressive

nature of our organization and the ever-evolving climate of Latin

music, it is with great pleasure that we introduce Paredes' contemporary

piece to the roster of incredible artists who have created indelible

images on behalf of the Latin GRAMMYs," said Gabriel Abaroa Jr.,

President/CEO of The Latin Recording Academy. "The combination of

Paredes' trend-forward techniques and pop art style creates a visually

stunning use of colors interwoven with a complexity of graphic imagery

that culminates in a creative array centered against Latin music's most

prestigious award."

Look out for Paredes' work during the 12th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards to be held at the Mandalay Bay

www.miguelparedes.com or visit his gallery (2399 NW Second Ave., Miami).

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