Congrats to Knight Arts Challenge on a decade of arts support

The Knight Arts Challenge has made a huge impact in the arts community in Miami in the past decade. Since its formation in 2007, the Knight Foundation’s initiative to support local projects that enhance the cultural experience, has doled out $122 million dollars in grants to 335 projects.

If you’ve seen poetry in unexpected places around the city, that’s due to funding from the Challenge. Maybe you’ve recently attended an interactive theater experience inside a historic Little Havana motel. That too was a Challenge grant winning proposal.

The most creative and Miami-centric ideas are the ones that receive backing and much needed funding. What better way to celebrate its 10-year Anniversary than to host a variety of unique, free events to showcase the best of the Magic City.

The celebration kicks off Nov. 9 in Overtown, with Lights, Camera, 305: A Miami Movie Night, an event that highlights the growth of Miami’s indie film community. Those in attendance will wear a pair of Silent Revolution headphones and be able to tune in to any of the three films playing simultaneously. Films were curated by Miami’s own Black Lounge Film Series, Third Horizon Film Festival and O, Cinema. 7-10 p.m., Gibson Park, 401 NW 12 St.

Next, imagine a trip to the Farmers Market becoming a cultural experience. That’s what’s happening Dec. 3 at Pinecrest Gardens when during the Sunday event you can view the latest installation by environmental artist and sculptor Patrick Doherty while kids take part in art workshops and live music’s performed. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 11000 Red Rd., Coral Gables.

Culminating the celebration is Bringing Art to Life, Dec. 4 at the Knight Plaza. The space nestled between the Perez Art Museum Miami and the Frost Science becomes a performance space for local bands like favorites Locos Por Juana and Spam All-Stars, dance companies and choral groups as well as literary presentations. They’ll also be projecting New World Symphony’s Project 305, which recently debuted at SoundScape Park. 7-10 p.m., 1103 Biscayne Blvd.

All events are free and open to the public but RSVP is required. Read more in depth information on each event at knightfoundation.org/10.