Donor Highlight: Lawrence Kline
Growing up in 1960s Miami Beach instilled Lawrence (Larry) Kline with a love for modernist architecture and a passion for art and design. The intersection of indoor and outdoor living in Miami helped to shape his own design philosophy of following a simple palette, integrated well with nature. In working to create designs that enhance and exist in harmony with the natural environment, Larry showcases clean, strong architectural forms that harness the strength of natural light of Miami’s tropical environment.
As the Managing Director of the Perkins&Will Miami studio, Larry has taken a conscious approach to creating a culture of professionalism and inclusiveness in the office and in the design community. After graduate school in New York and Florence, as well as a brief stint working in Washington, D.C., he returned to Miami where he has had the opportunity to help shape its architecture, art, and culture. He is VP of the Board of Bakehouse Art Complex, where he has served for almost a decade. He has also served on the architectural advisory boards of the University of Miami, University of Florida, and Florida International University. Bakehouse deeply appreciates Larry’s commitment of time and resources to our organization, especially as we draw on his talent and expertise in thinking about our future live-work campus. Bakehouse asked Larry to share his thoughts with our readers.
Why is it important to support artists and the organizations that serve them?
Investing in art is an investment in the future of Miami. The art scene here has grown exponentially over the last decade, in large part due to support systems like Bakehouse and others. The ultimate goal is to continue growing as a city rooted in the support of the creative class.
What inspires you about Bakehouse?
I’m inspired by the fact that over its history so many artists have been recognized, nurtured, and supported at Bakehouse, and their works are now seen in art institutions across the world. The efforts taken here locally have impacts on a global scale.
Why should someone donate to Bakehouse?
There are so many great cultural institutions in South Florida but few, if any, with the grassroots, community-based support that Bakehouse has provided for more than 35 years. Donations to Bakehouse are a direct benefit to the artists in residence. Every donation makes an immediate difference.
What is your wish for Bakehouse as it embarks on its next generation for 21st-century artmaking?
My hope is that Bakehouse can realize its dream of an arts-focused campus, seamlessly incorporating studio and gallery space with the addition of an affordable housing component that will provide sustainability to our artist community in Miami.
Where would you like to see Bakehouse in three years?
I hope it will have secured its place on the shortlist of cultural institutions that are a must-see for people visiting and living in Miami.