Miami, Florida

Event Review By J. Daniel Duran

There are rarely opportunities for the average person to speak to and learn from the best DJs in the world. However, for three weeks, those passing by 685 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach got the opportunity to do just that.

What Moves You Miami, presented by Scion in partnership with Neverstop, Inc., made workshops and live DJ performances available to the public every Thursday through Sunday for its entire run in June. Miami’s own DJ Lazaro Casanova (resident DJ for Studio A’s Revolver night), DJ Contra (M.I.A.), Low B (Hollertronix), DJ Swamp and Pony Up were some of the highlights of the event set up in a temporary gallery space. And very unlike South Beach, the one-time event was open to all who were interested—no VIP invitation required.

The art space allowed DJs to spin against a backdrop of inspiring DIY artwork, which including a mural done by several graffiti artists whose creation was documented and presented alongside in sped-up chronophotography (sequence photography that creates animation). Other artists who presented their artwork included Maya Hayuk, Momo, Carlos De Villasante, Jamil GS, Vulcan, the Inkheads and Vinnie Ray. Also exhibited was the instantly recognizable work by Friends With You, a local Miami art team who delve into the childish side found in all of us.

But the exhibit wasn’t all about music and art. industry leaders such as promoter extraordinaire Steve Aoki—owner of the Dim Mak record label—offered pointers and information about succeeding in the music business.
The motive of the workshops, other than the obvious clever marketing plug, was to entertain, inform and inspire hopefully the next generation of movers and shakers. But even if learning wasn’t your thing, it was a great opportunity to sit up close to your favorite DJ, a luxury rarely afforded.

At this time Scion isn’t sure if it will do another event of this kind. However, other cities such as Atlanta as being considered for their own version of “What Moves You.” And if it’s anything like its Miami counterpart, it shouldn’t be missed.