Meet Rafael Montilla | Art Miami Magazine

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rafael Montilla and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rafael, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I founded Art Miami Magazine in 2012, my thought process was rooted in both passion and necessity. Miami had already emerged as a global hub for contemporary art, especially during Art Basel, yet there wasn’t an independent platform dedicated to consistently highlighting the incredible depth of creativity here year-round. I wanted to create a space where artists, galleries, curators, and art lovers could find thoughtful coverage, meaningful dialogue, and visibility beyond fleeting events. The idea was to build a bridge—between local and international audiences, between emerging and established artists—while celebrating Miami’s unique position as a crossroads of cultures. At its heart, the magazine was born out of a desire to empower artists by amplifying their voices and giving the community a resource that feels both inspiring and accessible.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is rooted in the idea of storytelling—whether through Art Miami Magazine or my own creative projects, I see art as a bridge that connects people, cultures, and emotions. What sets me apart is my commitment to highlighting diverse voices and giving visibility to artists who may not always have a platform. I’m most proud of creating a space where both emerging and established artists can coexist, and where readers can discover the richness of Miami’s art scene in dialogue with the global community.

The journey hasn’t been easy. Building an independent publication meant navigating financial hurdles, limited resources, and the challenge of gaining trust in a competitive industry. I overcame these obstacles by staying consistent, building genuine relationships, and never losing sight of the mission: to celebrate art in all its forms. Along the way, I’ve learned that resilience, adaptability, and collaboration are essential for growth.

What I want the world to know about Art Miami Magazine is that it’s more than just a magazine—it’s a living archive of creativity, a platform dedicated to artists, and a reflection of the cultural heartbeat of Miami. Our story is one of persistence, passion, and community, and I hope it inspires others to keep creating and sharing their voices.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I’d want them to experience the city the way I love it: a mix of culture, food, art, and the ocean breeze.

We’d start with the Wynwood Walls and its galleries—an essential stop to see street art and contemporary work that sets the tone for Miami’s creativity. From there, I’d take them to the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Rubell Museum, where they could dive deeper into world-class collections. Evenings would be for good food: maybe dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Design District or fresh seafood at Garcia’s on the River.

Midweek, we’d slow it down with a day in Little Havana, walking down Calle Ocho, sipping Cuban coffee, listening to live music, and maybe catching a game of dominoes. For nightlife, nothing beats the energy of a salsa spot or cocktails at Sugar rooftop in Brickell.

Of course, we’d spend time at the beach—South Pointe for the sunrise or maybe a boat ride around Biscayne Bay. And since Miami is about discovery, I’d also take them to Oolite Arts or a smaller gallery opening, so they could meet local artists and feel the pulse of the community.

By the end of the week, I’d hope they’d see Miami not just as a party city, but as a crossroads of cultures, creativity, and unforgettable energy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely. Art Miami Magazine would not exist without the support and inspiration I’ve received along the way. First and foremost, I dedicate my shoutout to the vibrant community of artists in Miami and beyond—without their creativity and courage, there would be no stories to tell. I’m also deeply grateful to the galleries, curators, and cultural organizations that have trusted and collaborated with us since the beginning. On a more personal level, the encouragement of close friends, mentors, and my family gave me the confidence to pursue this vision. Ultimately, the magazine is a collective effort, and every artist and supporter who has shared their work or voice with us deserves recognition in this journey.

Website: https://artmiamimagazine.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artmiamimag/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artmiamimag/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artmiamichannel

Image Credits
Perez Art Museum
AMM
Alexandra Benedeti
AMM

There is one more cover, I will have it ready on Friday