Built With Love: The Story Behind Pridelines Gallery 1st Installment

Our community center was transformed into a true celebration of LGBTQ+ artistry thanks to the stunning work of Karina Sirven (curator), Ana Sofia Hierro (assistant curator), and Tiffany Rodriguez (event coordinator). Pridelines Gallery #1 marks the debut of a new ongoing project to uplift LGBTQ+ voices through art — and we couldn’t have asked for a better launch.

The gallery featured works across generations and mediums — from film and photography to ceramics and 3D installations — all created by local LGBTQ+ artists and community members. Karina and Ana brought their creative vision to life by thoughtfully selecting and arranging each piece, even incorporating previously donated works into a cohesive, permanent collection. The result was a flowing, immersive space where every artist and story felt seen and honored.

“Through our combined efforts, opening night was filled with magic, passion, and love,” said Karina Sirven. “Pridelines has a special way of making our community feel safe to explore and express our creativity. It was an honor to spearhead the curation of this historic show and lay the foundation for our future exhibitions.”

Ana Sofia Hierro added, “Helping to put on this show allowed us to join Pridelines’ mission of building community. The artists and the attendants were connecting with palpable joy. It was a beautiful night.”

Tiffany Rodriguez, Pridelines’ marketing assistant, brought it all together with intention and heart. From coordinating over 20 artists to securing a live performance by At the Starlight, she helped shape a night that centered creativity, connection, and community.

“Helping bring this gallery to life was such a joyful and powerful experience,” said Tiffany Rodriguez. “Transforming our space at Pridelines was incredible. The moment you walked into the room, you could feel the community — the energy, the power of four generations of LGBTQ+ artists coming together. I loved using my marketing skills to help shape that experience, from communicating with artists to designing the flyers. It was all about bringing everything and everyone together in a way that felt meaningful.”

This gallery is more than just a new initiative, it’s a revival. Historically, Pridelines hosted a quarterly LGBTQ+ art series in partnership with Unity Coalition. These shows pushed boundaries and featured powerful, message-driven work that reflected the lived experiences of South Florida’s LGBTQ+ community,  including shows exploring identity and liberation. The series was paused in 2023 following our departure from our previous location. With Gallery #1, we’re proud to return to our roots and build a new future for queer art at Pridelines.

As part of our renewed commitment, Pridelines’ Art Gallery will once again exhibit works by LGBTQ+ artists through quarterly rotating shows. We’ll continue to foster meaningful interactions between artists and the community through exhibitions, educational programming, and opportunities to generate proceeds that support Pridelines’ vital services for youth, people living with HIV/AIDS, and those seeking safe and affirming spaces.

Stay tuned for a closer look at the incredible artists behind this show — their work, their stories, and the visions they’re bringing to life in Miami’s LGBTQ+ community. This is just the beginning for Pridelines Gallery.

Photos by Oscar Ronquillo @myfilmisoverx