Exhibit part of America 250 Celebration
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (June 19, 2026) – History Fort Lauderdale, proud steward of our community’s past by making our heritage accessible and engaging to residents and visitors, will present “Timeless Tropics: Florida’s Changing Landscape” from Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, September 13. This free summer fine art exhibit exploring Florida’s evolving natural and urban landscapes will feature works by award-winning artist Tim Forman and photographer David Paulo plus contextual historical maps of our timeless state. A free meet and greet with the artists will take place on Thursday, July 9, from 6 – 8 p.m., at the New River Inn Museum of History building on History Fort Lauderdale’s campus (231 Southwest Second Avenue). Complimentary light bites and beverages will be provided.
“History Fort Lauderdale is proud offer this this inspiring and artistic look at how Florida’s landscape has changed throughout the years – from seascapes to skyscrapers – to commemorate our part in America’s 250 Celebration activities,” said Patricia Zeiler, executive director of History Fort Lauderdale. “Through historic maps, photographs, and artwork, guests of all ages can discover our region’s imperial origins, gorgeous vistas and creative urban cultures; all of which have contributed to our great city’s economic prosperity.”
Visitors to History Fort Lauderdale’s “Timeless Tropics: Florida’s Changing Landscape” will experience Tim Forman’s artfully curated oil on canvas masterworks of the Florida Everglades, waterscapes, beachscapes and natural wildlife. These landscapes are complemented by David Paulo’s bold photographic narrative of buildings and neighborhoods in South Florida that are significant to culture and life of minority communities. Documented cities include Sistrunk, Lauderhill, and Dania Beach. Historical maps of Florida from pre-Revolutionary War/Spanish Florida in 1749 to British controlled Florida in 1763 to Florida as a U.S. state in 1845 and illustrative panels will context and clarity about our history
Tim Forman is the third generation of Formans to have been born and reared in South Florida. He first picked up the brush at nine years old under the instruction of Peter Olsen. By 17, Forman was receiving commissions. Primarily a self-taught artist, Forman’s work is the result of dedicated practice. He uses field sketches, plein air paintings, and photographs to compose his pieces that are painted in layers with both knife and brush. He creates his landscapes to portray the splendor and simplicity of the natural world around us. Through his work, Tim seeks to lift the spirits and inspire awe above our day-to-day lives.
David Paulo, a Lauderhill native, has cultivated a career as a digital creative by contributing his graphic and photography skills to showcasing South Florida culture. Through film photography, David has captured and shared historical landmarks and cultures not only in South Florida but across the United States on his platforms. His commitment to his community has earned him recognition from CBS Miami, WSVN 7, the Miami Herald, WLRN, and South Florida’s 99 Jamz radio station for his outreach and philanthropic initiatives. Through his art, David aims to bring happiness, nostalgia, and unity to the world by continuing to inspire connection and collaboration to the unique places we call home.