Oolite Arts, one of Miami’s leading organizations dedicated to supporting contemporary visual artists, is pleased to announce the appointment of John Abodeely as its new President and CEO.
Abodeely brings more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of the arts, education, and nonprofit leadership, positioning him to guide Oolite Arts through an exciting new era of growth and impact.
Most recently, Abodeely served as CEO of the Houston Arts Alliance, where he strengthened citywide programs to support artists and cultural organizations. He also held the role of Acting Executive Director of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities under President Obama, where he advanced national arts education policy and championed creative placemaking initiatives. Earlier in his career, Abodeely worked with Americans for the Arts and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, helping build initiatives that brought together artists, educators, and communities.
Founded in 1984, Oolite Arts has grown into a cornerstone of Miami’s cultural ecosystem, offering residencies, exhibitions, grants, and educational programs that empower artists to take risks and thrive in their careers.
With a major new campus in Little River on the horizon, Abodeely’s appointment signals a continued commitment to investing in artists and expanding the organization’s impact both locally and internationally.
On Sunday, August 3, our CEO John Abodeely joined Jackie Nespral on NBC6’s Impact with Jackie Nespral to highlight Oolite Arts’ mission and share what lies ahead as we continue to strengthen support for Miami’s creative community.
The segment gave viewers an inside look at the ways Oolite Arts empowers artists and connects the public to contemporary art. John spoke about how our residencies, exhibitions, grants, and professional development programs provide artists with the resources they need to advance their practice and build sustainable careers. He also underscored the importance of our classes and community initiatives, which make art accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds across Miami-Dade County.
Throughout the conversation, John highlighted the scope of Oolite Arts’ work, which includes:
- Residencies that provide artists with dedicated studios, exhibition opportunities, and a supportive community to grow their practice.
- Exhibitions that bring bold, new work to the public.
- Professional development opportunities that prepare artists for long-term careers.
- Classes and workshops that invite community members to explore their creativity.
- Community programs that bring art into neighborhoods across the city.
Looking ahead, John shared details about upcoming projects that will expand resources for local artists and create new entry points for residents to experience contemporary art. These initiatives build on Oolite Arts’ commitment to deepening partnerships, nurturing creativity, and ensuring that art remains an essential part of life in Miami.
As we celebrate 40 years, this milestone reaffirms our mission: to empower artists and make art accessible to all.
“I am honored to join Oolite Arts at such a transformative moment,” said Abodeely.
“Miami is home to an extraordinary community of artists, and I look forward to building on Oolite’s strong foundation to create even greater opportunities for them to innovate, connect, and inspire.”
Abodeely officially assumed his role as President and CEO in January 2025
About Oolite Arts
More than four decades ago, ceramicist Ellie Schneiderman founded what is now Oolite Arts to provide affordable workspaces for Miami’s visual artists.
Today, under the leadership of President and CEO John Abodeely, Oolite Arts continues that mission while expanding its reach and impact. From its long-standing home on Lincoln Road to its future campus in Little River, the organization remains a creative hub where artists at every stage of their careers find the resources they need to thrive — including free studio space, exhibition opportunities, financial support, mentorship, and professional connections.
Oolite Arts’ programs now extend far beyond Miami Beach. With the expansion of its residencies to serve artists across Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Monroe counties, the organization is building a more connected and inclusive creative community across South Florida. Through the Home + Away international residency program, Oolite Arts is also linking Miami-based artists with global art centers, fostering cultural exchange and solidifying the city’s reputation as a rising international hub for the visual arts.
As Oolite Arts prepares to break ground on its new state-of-the-art campus in 2026, it stands at the forefront of supporting artists locally and globally — shaping a vibrant future where creativity and opportunity thrive together.
