As a child, Patricia Bonaldi began making her own clothes after her mother taught her how to sew. Later, after a brief stint in law school, she started her eponymous couture eveningwear label in São Paulo, painstakingly sewing each piece by hand and commencing a life-long dedication to heavily detailed designs. But it was in 2002 that Bonaldi made history when she created PatBo: a luxury label bringing a high level of craftsmanship to ready-to-wear and swimwear. Today, Bonaldi’s visions are brought to life by 200 female artisans in her hometown of Uberlandia, Brazil—uncoincidentally the country’s capital of embroidery. In honor of Miami Art Week and Art Basel, Whitewall asked the founder and creative director where she goes to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami and where to find the city’s best unconventional art.
Courtesy of Patricia Bonaldi.
WHITEWALL: Where do you go to feel inspired in Miami?
PATRICIA BONALDI: For me, one of the best places to find inspiration in Miami is the Design District. The vibrant mix of galleries, public art installations, bold architecture, and unique boutiques creates an electrifying environment of creativity. It’s the kind of place where every detail—from building facades to murals—tells a story and sparks new ideas.
“It’s the kind of place where every detail—from building facades to murals—tells a story and sparks new ideas.”
Patricia Bonaldi
WW: What is the best off-the-beaten-path place to see art in Miami?
PB: I’m a big fan of the Rubell Museum for experiencing unconventional art in Miami. This private museum houses an extensive collection of contemporary works and consistently features cutting-edge exhibitions. It’s a space where the art is surprising, often thought-provoking, and perfect for those looking to step outside the usual tourist trail.
“The Rubell Museum is a space where the art is surprising, often thought-provoking, and perfect for those looking to step outside the usual tourist trail.”
Patricia Bonaldi
WW: What’s the best-kept secret in Miami?
PB: In my opinion, one of Miami’s best-kept secrets is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This historic estate offers a tranquil escape with its stunning Italian Renaissance-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in beautifully manicured grounds, uncover hidden gems, and feel transported to another era—all while enjoying a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Miami Insider Patricia Bonaldi’s List of Favorites:
1. Design District
Courtesy of the Design District.
The Design District is a creative neighborhood with unmatched access to world-class dining, shopping, art, events, and inspiration. The District is rooted in retail and includes more than 170 brands, including flagship stores for Chanel, Balenciaga, Hermès, Fendi, Dior, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, and more—making it the ultimate destination for fashion fanatics. But clothing isn’t the only thing on display in the District; at every turn, shoppers are surrounded by award-winning architectural projects as well as ICA Miami and the de la Cruz Collection. – Miami Design District
2. Rubell Museum
Courtesy of the Rubell Museum.
The Rubell Museum opened in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood in December 2019. Originally launched in 1993 as the Rubell Family Collection, the institution was renamed the Rubell Museum to emphasize its public mission and expand access for audiences. The Museum experience unfolds on a single level, with 36 galleries, a flexible performance space, an extensive research library,a bookstore, and a courtyard garden filled with plants native to South Florida. – Rubell Museum
3. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Miami, a space where history, nature, and art converge. One of Miami’s most treasured landmarks, Vizcaya features a Main House with original furnishings in 34 rooms, ten acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, as well as the historic Vizcaya Village. – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
