Iberostar Waves Miami Beach proudly announces the completion of Feel the Waves, an ambitious new artistic project that transforms the hotel into an “art gallery”. The installation features five immersive murals created by renowned Spanish artist René Mäkelä, also known as “Mäkelismos”, who was recently honoured as Wynwood Artist of the Year.
Aligned with the new wave of urban art that shapes Miami’s visual identity, this project integrates creativity into the guest journey, offering an experience where culture, rhythm and energy become part of the stay itself.
Situated in the heart of South Beach’s iconic Art Deco district, just steps from the city’s top attractions, Iberostar Waves Miami Beach provides the ideal setting to reinterpret Miami’s vibrant essence through Mäkelä’s bold and expressive urban style.
The result is a striking visual narrative that captures the city’s spirit: radiant, multicultural and unapologetically creative.
In the artist’s own words:
Welcomes guests with a burst of colour and graffiti-inspired lettering, celebrating the city’s multicultural rhythm and becoming an iconic photo opportunity.
Inspired by local marine life, these murals feature turtles and dolphins to symbolise a connection with the sea.
The most striking vertical composition of the project. Two flamingos take centre stage, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and references to the coastal ecosystem. It’s the largest mural and one of the hotel’s most memorable visual elements.
Concludes the artistic journey by reimagining Miami Beach’s iconic lifeguard tower through an urban and contemporary lens, paying tribute to the radiant spirit that defines the destination.
René Mäkelä is a well-established figure in the global art scene. His murals and installations have become part of Miami’s urban landscape, and his work has attracted attention from high-profile collectors and figures across art, fashion, sport and culture — including Cara Delevingne, Madonna, Vinícius Jr., Antoine Griezmann, Manny Machado, Cam Newton and Pope Francis, who has publicly acknowledged Mäkelä’s work.
In the words of Candy Almonte, General Manager of Iberostar Waves Miami Beach, the collaboration offers “an experience where art is an integral part of the stay”, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to style and authentic local experiences.
In line with Iberostar’s principles of environmental responsibility, all murals have been created using eco-friendly, water-based paints, which reduce the emission of volatile organic compounds and minimise environmental impact.
This choice ensures long-lasting, high-quality finishes while strengthening the hotel’s commitment to more sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.
With Feel the Waves, Iberostar Waves Miami Beach offers more than just a prime location in South Beach, 80 boutique-style rooms, a rooftop pool, proximity to the Miami Convention Center and distinctive Mediterranean architecture. It also presents an integrated cultural concept that connects directly with the city’s vibrant art scene.
For guests seeking authentic experiences, thoughtful design and a deeper connection to their destination, this project provides a clear and distinctive added value within the Miami Beach offering.