Xavier Cortada, Incorporation Palm, 2008
On Earth Day 2008, Miami artist Xavier Cortada had a Royal Palm Tree planted at the very location (see map below) where, in 1896, three hundred and sixty eight men incorporated the city of Miami, elected its first leaders, and selected the Royal Palm as the symbol at the center of the city seal.
In conceptualizing an art piece that marks the birthplace of the city, Miami artist Xavier Cortada thought to bring the seal to life. He designed “Incorporation Palm” as a living monument that honors not only those who brought the city to life, but those who work today to keep it growing.