The Nems Foundation for the Arts offers artists free subscriptions to its state-of-the-art platform, removing financial constraints and enabling their creativity to flourish without limitations. By fostering an environment where artists can work freely, the Foundation aims to become the most evolved and dynamic creative collective, attracting not only global artists but also collectors, buyers, museums, and galleries. This unique model establishes the Nems Foundation as a magnet for artistic talent and a destination for collectors seeking unparalleled creative value, making it a nexus of artistic innovation and excellence in the global art community.
OUR HISTORY
The Nems Foundation for the Arts, established in Miami Beach, embodies a profound commitment to the arts, guided by the vision of its founders, Marianne Nems and her daughter, Athena Marie Villard. Deeply rooted in the artistic principles and legacy of Dimitri Nems (1945 – 2019), whose dedication to sacred geometry and color theory left an indelible mark on the art world, the foundation’s mission is to support healing, empathy, and the pursuit of universal beauty through art. Since its inception in 2019, the Nems Foundation for the Arts has been a dynamic platform for artistic exploration and social change. It seeks to unite artists from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to share their perspectives and use art as a powerful tool for cultural understanding and community engagement. The foundation’s initiatives, including the launch of Artrade.club and the VORTEX art exhibition, reflect a commitment to presenting art that is both innovative and inclusive, contributing significantly to the rich cultural landscape of Miami Beach.
Marianne Nems and her daughter Athena deeply enjoy being part of the Miami Beach community. When Marianne realized that her discovery of the Seed-Art technique and the power of blending art with advanced technology needed to be shared with the world, it was clear that Miami Beach would be the starting point. This vibrant city, with its rich cultural heritage and global appeal, became the ideal place to launch the Nems Foundation’s groundbreaking initiatives. In recognition of its efforts, the Nems Foundation was awarded a grant by the Miami Beach Tourism and Culture Department, becoming an official presenter for the Miami Beach Art and Culture Council for the year 2024-2025. This grant was earned for the foundation’s commitment to providing a sustainable project in innovative art practices, creating exhibitions that foster global interaction and attraction.
The foundation is recognized for its efforts to blend traditional and contemporary art forms, creating a space where the old meets the new in a seamless dialogue. These initiatives not only honor Dimitri Nems’s artistic vision but also aim to establish Miami Beach as a leading hub of artistic innovation and cultural exchange. Under the leadership of Marianne Nems, the foundation highlights the role of art in bridging community divides, fostering empathy, and cultivating a more inclusive society. Moreover, by actively participating in the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Grant Program, the Nems Foundation for the Arts reinforces its dedication to offering engaging and dynamic art experiences. This participation underscores the foundation’s goal to not only preserve and honor the legacy of Dimitri Nems but also to inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts, thereby enhancing the cultural vibrancy of Miami Beach. Through its ongoing work, the Nems Foundation for the Arts continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, providing a platform for artists to connect with and impact audiences in Miami Beach and beyond. The foundation’s unwavering dedication to promoting artistic excellence and innovation stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in community development and cultural understanding.
THE INCEPTION:
The Nems Foundation for the Arts was born from a deeply personal journey of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to exploring the profound connection between the physical and spiritual realms. As a solo entrepreneur in New York City’s vibrant design industry, I, Marianne Nems, navigated the complexities of a competitive landscape, balancing the demands of providing for my children with the relentless pursuit of excellence in interior design and architecture. In this fast-paced environment, I discovered that true strength and clarity come not from external success alone, but from an inner harmony nurtured by the disciplined practice of martial arts—a discipline that deepened both my physical resilience and spiritual resolve.
In the quiet corners of memory, my father’s words lingered like cryptic echoes from another realm, imparting a timeless wisdom that etched itself into the very fabric of my being. “Never tread the same path twice,” he would say, his voice a gentle yet profound murmur, “always embark on fresh journeys, even if solitude becomes your companion. Immerse yourself in reading, keep your hand nimble, sketch relentlessly, for in these ceaseless acts, you shall unearth treasures untold. The more you create, the more you unravel not only the artist within but the essence of your existence. Witness the joy you bestow upon others as your creations resonate with their souls. If you can plumb the depths of your clients’ innermost desires, as I did during my tenure as a designer, you shall conjure marvels that shall beckon those willing to pay the price. Success shall be your constant companion.”
When the pandemic struck and the world was thrust into confinement, we found ourselves at a crossroads where virtual technology became essential for maintaining human connection. This shift compelled me, as a natural response to the changing world, to create my own virtual reality art gallery—a sanctuary in the digital realm where the limitations of physical isolation could be transcended. As I ventured further into this new frontier, augmented reality seamlessly integrated into my broader vision, expanding the possibilities of what art could achieve. The more we were confined, the more I felt an urgent need to connect with the world, to reach out to other artists and share the discoveries I had made. It was during this period that Artrade.club was born—not just as a platform, but as a manifestation of the philosophy that every discovery is meant to be shared, to grow and evolve with others, much like a fractal that expands endlessly, generating new patterns and possibilities. Artrade.club became the conduit through which my vision could be shared with both emerging and established artists—a space where creativity could be nurtured, explored, and amplified in ways that transcend traditional boundaries.
This realization that our discoveries are not meant to be kept in isolation, but to be shared and cultivated, was the driving force behind the creation of the Nems Foundation for the Arts. The foundation is now my primary focus, encompassing my roles as an artist, author, and architect—not of the physical world, but of a virtual realm where connectivity and interconnectivity are the lifeblood of artistic evolution. Through the foundation, we seek to inaugurate the Artrade.club academy, inviting artists from all walks of life to participate and thrive, individually and collectively. To celebrate this new era in art, we will showcase the artwork that served as the genesis of the Seed-Art technique, utilizing every available technology to introduce a future where art and technology coalesce to empower creators. Our mission is to foster a community where artists can connect, grow, and evolve—where the seed of every discovery can germinate and expand, much like a fractal, into infinite new forms. The Nems Foundation for the Arts is not just a place, but a movement—a commitment to ensuring that every creative spark is nurtured, shared, and allowed to flourish. We believe that art is a living entity, meant to be continuously reinvented and expanded upon, creating new pathways for connection and transformation.
In every endeavor, we strive to honor the past while boldly forging new paths for the future. The Nems Foundation invites you to join us on this creative voyage, to explore the boundless possibilities that arise when art becomes a bridge between the seen and unseen, the known and unknown, the present and the future.
About Us
At The Nems Foundation for the Arts, our strategic objectives are centered on elevating artistic innovation, expanding global engagement, and stimulating the economic and cultural flourishing of Miami Beach. As we look to the future, our initiatives are designed to set new standards in the art world by seamlessly integrating technology and creativity.
Strategic Objectives
Elevate Artistic Innovation: Through our groundbreaking artist-in-residence program, we are pioneering the exploration of VR, AR, and AI technologies. This initiative aims to showcase the limitless possibilities of digital art at prominent events, setting new benchmarks for artistic excellence and innovation.
Expand Global Engagement: By enhancing the Artrade.club platform with multilingual capabilities, we are creating a global tapestry of artistic collaboration. This expansion will significantly broaden Miami Beach’s cultural influence, extending its reach across continents and fostering cross-cultural connections.
Stimulate Economic and Cultural Flourishing: Our captivating annual international art and technology exhibitions, which include workshops, exhibitions, and performances, are designed to attract global tourists and professionals. These efforts will invigorate Miami Beach’s economy and cultural vibrancy year-round, making it a thriving hub of creativity and innovation.
Key Initiatives
Revolutionize Virtual Gallery Experiences: We are enriching our virtual gallery with interactive features like real-time artist Q&A sessions. These enhancements will foster meaningful dialogue and connections between artists and a global audience, revolutionizing the way art is experienced online.
Champion Inclusive Artistic Education: Our commitment to universally accessible art sessions and workshops ensures broad participation. We aim to nurture a culture of creativity, discovery, and lifelong artistic pursuit, making art education inclusive and impactful for all.
Prioritize Sustainable Practices: With a focus on eco-friendly operations within our online marketplace and local gift shop, we are dedicated to supporting local artists and reducing our environmental impact. This reflects our commitment to sustainability in every aspect of our work.
Execution and Impact
Cultivate Strategic Collaborations: By forging partnerships with leading technology firms and educational institutions, we empower artists with advanced tools and collaborative platforms, significantly enhancing the creative landscape of Miami Beach.
Implement Comprehensive Marketing Strategies: Our marketing approach blends digital outreach, influencer collaborations, and compelling storytelling to amplify the visibility and impact of the foundation’s initiatives, ensuring they resonate globally.
Develop Impact Measurement and Reporting: We are establishing a structured approach to evaluate the social, cultural, and economic impacts of our initiatives. Bi-annual reports will inform stakeholders of our progress, successes, and areas for growth, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Sustainability and Inclusivity Commitment
Green Initiatives Across the Board: Our dedication to environmental responsibility is evident in all aspects of our operations. We are committed to being stewards of sustainable cultural engagement, setting an example for others in the industry.
Advocate for Diversity and Equity: We are passionate about ensuring a rich diversity of voices within our programming, collaborations, and leadership. Our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive environment is fundamental to our mission, welcoming and celebrating all who engage with our work.
Conclusion
The Nems Foundation for the Arts is at the forefront of a visionary approach that integrates art with technology, enhances community engagement, and reaffirms Miami Beach as a premier cultural destination. Our initiatives are meticulously crafted to enrich the cultural fabric of Miami Beach while contributing to the city’s economic vitality and global reputation. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, we are poised to usher in a transformative era of cultural richness and innovation, inspiring future generations of artists and art enthusiasts worldwide.