META Miami cordially invites you to join us for a panel discussion with photographer David GODLIS and archivist Ed Christin.
FOREVER SUMMER:
In Conversation: David GODLIS & Ed Christin
We are delighted to invite you to a special panel discussion presented as part of our current exhibition, Forever Summer.
Join us for an engaging conversation featuring acclaimed photographer David GODLIS and archivist and art consultant Ed Christin. This exclusive talk will center on the vibrant essence of Miami, diving deep into the unique stories and cultural backdrop behind the historic photographs GODLIS captured right here in the city.
From the distinct energy of the streets to the specific moments frozen in time, GODLIS and Christin will share the behind-the-scenes stories, aesthetic choices, and cultural impact of the imagery featured in Forever Summer.
GODLIS. Place Pigalle (Detail). Miami Beach, 1985. Color Archival Pigment Photograph. 16 x 20 in
About David GODLIS: The Street Chronicler
The "Jewish Disneyland" Roots
Born in New York City in 1951, GODLIS spent his childhood winters in Miami Beach, where his grandfather owned an apartment complex. Escaping the harsh northern winters for the sun-drenched Atlantic coast felt like stepping into a "Jewish Disneyland." The surreal visual landscape of palm trees, bright sun, and elderly Eastern European Jewish immigrants living out their golden years left a lasting, nostalgic imprint on his young, creative mind.
The 1974 Miami Breakthrough
By 1973, GODLIS was a 22-year-old photography student in Massachusetts, deeply inspired by street photography legends such as Diane Arbus. In January 1974, he took a pivotal 10-day trip to visit his grandmother, who lived just off Ocean Drive. Armed with 60 rolls of black-and-white film, he captured a faded enclave of Art Deco hotels serving as a retirement haven. GODLIS later called this trip his ultimate artistic turning point—the exact moment he discovered his own unique visual voice.
The Punk Connective Tissue
Though GODLIS returned north to achieve fame by capturing the late-1970s NYC punk rock scene at CBGB, his Miami work laid the foundation for his career. He often noted a poetic aesthetic link between his 1974 Miami subjects and the 1976 punk explosion: because the youth of the CBGB scene bought vintage mid-century clothing from thrift shops, the rock stars he shot in New York were often styled exactly like the grandmothers he had photographed on Florida beaches.
GODLIS. Palm Tree Shadow (Detail). Miami Beach, 1974. Archival Pigment Photograph. 20 x 16 in
About Ed Christin
An expert in the preservation and management of historical photographic archives, Ed Christin operates as both an archivist and an art consultant. His career is defined by a dedicated focus on safeguarding invaluable cultural artifacts and ensuring their longevity for future generations.
Ed currently manages the Andy Sweet Photography Collection as its lead archivist and curator, overseeing the preservation and exhibition of Sweet’s vibrant, historic work. Beyond protecting Sweet’s iconic imagery, he promotes a select group of photographers, including Eric Kroll, Robin Hill, Greg Lotus, and John Loring.
Previously, from 2010 to 2014, Ed served as the business manager and agent for the legendary Bunny Yeager, a pivotal role in which he directed her portfolio, organized key exhibitions, and cemented her enduring legacy in the photographic world.
GODLIS. Faux Fountainbleu (Detail). Miami Beach, 1986. Archival Pigment Photograph. 16 x 20 in
Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a lover of Miami history, or captivated by the exhibition, this evening promises an inspiring look at our city's visual legacy.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Thursday, July 16, 2026 | 7 pm
2751 N Miami Ave, Suite 1
Miami, FL 33127