FATVillage: A Creative Oasis in Fort Lauderdale
You don't have to be unconventional to experience the action and dynamic art scene of the unconventional FATVillage (Flagler, Arts, and Technology), which is part of Ft. Lauderdale's trendy Flagler Village neighborhood!
Founded in the early 2000s just north of glitzy and bustling Las Olas Boulevard, and bordered by the FEC (Florida East Coast) Railway tracks, the draw to FATVillage is the distinct vibe to embrace, especially for alternative thought and expression.
This tucked-away part of Flagler Village is a gem I always take the time to visit and experience when I’m in Fort Lauderdale! It's easy to look forward to the leisurely walkthrough of this growing, culturally rich, and diverse area because I know there will be something new and exciting to see each time.
Promoted as the original art walk of Ft. Lauderdale, there are monthly events and ongoing art exhibitions which draw locals and tourists alike! While geographically small, thriving FATVillage draws more attention each year as it gets compared to Miami's active and expressive Wynwood Arts community.
Three former industrial warehouses showcase ever-changing local creatives' contemporary work and cultural projects, which often push the envelope with experimentation in their artistic productions. I regularly tour the Projects South Building, a transformed warehouse, which draws audiences to view moving installations in its very expansive space.
This recent installation focused on issues relevant to both artists' personal and collective experiences, including both the physical and emotional struggles migrants live through in dangerous journeys. This exhibition rotated on ten-foot-high walls in a complete 360-degree formation. Finally, it encouraged dialogue around the current political climate and displacement found in migration.
In addition to thought-provoking presentations, start-up technology businesses have moved in, creating commerce and competing on a global scale. This formerly neglected warehouse district is also a transportation hub for Broward County, including Brightline, America's only privately owned, intercity passenger rail service connecting Southern Florida cities.
I love to listen to the live music performed in open-air venues and shop the artist's crafts, and vendor fairs exhibited once a month in the streets. In addition, I find outside booths displaying and selling handmade jewelry and up-cycled clothing offered for sale at indie shops. Existing and Pop-Up galleries alike show community artists who display and sell their work.
FATVillage bursts with vibrant and colorful outside murals, which change regularly. Local artists paint them on buildings' worn brick walls and old metal garage doors.
After spending hours viewing thought-provoking exhibitions and admiring beautiful artisan pieces in galleries, I can then relax in an urban coffeehouse with club-style seating. Or, have a cold handcrafted beer from the local brewery. Plus, there are unique restaurants that offer local specialties attracting both the neighborhood residents and visitors. I'm always confident that I will find something to satisfy my savory or sweet cravings between any of these choices.
Feel the love at Press and Grind Cafe.
Treat yourself to cutting edge cuisine at Henry’s Sandwich.
Relax with a brew and a book at Brew Urban Cafe.
Find these tacos made with the freshest ingredients at Taco Craft.
I could share part of a weekend in this fun-filled area with someone as excited as me, trying to take in most of the happenings. Or, explore on my own during the week and not miss out on a single detail!
Wings made from discarded paint can covers, make the perfect frame for a self-portrait!
Looking forward to the next time I visit Ft. Lauderdale, I will again put this hot spot on my destination list. There is so much to see, take in, and take away when touring FATVillage! Find out for yourself during a visit to one of the most notable neighborhoods in sunny southern Florida. You'll be glad you did!
Check out my previous blog:
Spotlight: Fort Lauderdale
