Miami Gardens Unveils First Public Art Mural Honoring Former State Senator Oscar Braynon II
- camilarosiaz
- Dec 24, 2025
- 2 min read
The City of Miami Gardens has launched its first citywide public art initiative with the unveiling of a large-scale mural honoring former Florida State Senator and longtime resident Oscar Braynon II. The project debuted this month at Rolling Oaks Park during LOUD Week, marking a new chapter in the city’s cultural development.
Led by Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien, the initiative was developed in collaboration with Love of Urban Design (LOUD) and coincided with the official renaming of the site as State Senator Oscar Braynon II Park at Rolling Oaks. The mural represents the first permanent public art installation commissioned by the city.
The unveiling drew nearly 150 attendees, including residents, artists, and local and state officials, underscoring growing civic support for public art in Miami Gardens. The event positioned the city as an emerging cultural destination during the broader Art Basel season.
Councilwoman Julien described the mural project as a foundational step toward expanding arts and cultural programming throughout Miami Gardens. The initiative is intended to engage local communities, attract visitors, and contribute to long-term economic activity through creative placemaking.
The mural, created by Miami-based artist Rawsol (also known as Caven K), spans nearly 20 feet by 20 feet and pays tribute to Braynon’s personal history and public service. Braynon and his family have lived and worked in the area since the early 1980s, playing a role in the community’s evolution from Carol City to present-day Miami Gardens.
Braynon served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2008 to 2011 and in the Florida Senate from 2011 to 2020, representing parts of northern Miami-Dade and southern Broward counties. His legislative career focused on education, economic development, and community advocacy.
Following the mural unveiling, Councilwoman Julien hosted a private reception and dinner in Braynon’s honor. As part of the celebration, she presented him with a commissioned portrait by local artist Anthony “Lump” Lumpkin, a Miami Gardens native whose studio is based in the city. The commission reflects Julien’s broader strategy of supporting local artists and creative entrepreneurs through public projects.
The launch of this mural signals a broader commitment by Miami Gardens to celebrate Black American history, civic leadership, and creative expression through public art, with additional projects expected to follow.