Puerto Rico Meets Miami: Maricel Marcantoni Art Slays The Runway with Inclusivity At Miami Swim Week® The Shows

Created by David Thompson Jul 25 2023, 13:02 PM EDT

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA - JULY 06: Models walk the runway for Maricel Marcantoni Art at Miami Swim Week – The Shows at SLS South Beach on July 06, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. Thomas Concordia/Getty Images for Miami Swim Week – The Shows

All eyes have been on Miami Swim Week® The Shows and the world wide media has been reporting. With much criticism being thrown at designers for their lack of inclusivity, Maricel Marcantoni Art was celebrated for their "body beautiful" theme. When asked about her thoughts on the subject, designer Gladys Scourtias kept it simple," Be happy! Enjoy life and shine your light!"

Maricel Marcantoni is a painter who works from her heart on the seaside of Puerto Rico and sends photos of her work to her niece, Gladys Scourtias, in Philadelphia. Gladys digitally creates all of the garments according to her aunt's paintings, and that is how they develop their collection. Color and shape are the guiding principles behind their collections, which range from swimwear and cover-ups to easy-to-wear resort wear. The collection evokes the beauty of a Puerto Rican sunset in the Caribbean. Additionally, the swimsuits are designed to be effortlessly worn, with matching wraps that allow for a seamless transition from an exotic beach to a luxurious poolside resort. They even offer options for men. Overall, all 16 looks in the collection were a triumph.

As the last model walked, Gladys took to the stage. Instead of a nonchalant wave or the classic victory bow, the designer danced her way down the runway, showcasing the true joy of her work. When she asked how she felt at the end of the show, she was quoted as saying, "It was really touching to see the models enjoying themselves and dancing as they awaited their turn to walk in their favorite look. They looked happy and excited! This reminded me of why I do what I do - to bring joy and smiles to people's faces." Overall despite the rain the light shone bright over the MaricelMarcantoniArt collection.

Gladys Scourtias has been a Puerto Rican artist for 40 years. Her art is exhibited in locations including museums, hotels, and art galleries and is famous for her cushions local to the island of Puerto Rico. Her art is inspired by the beautiful island's landscapes and culture.

The MaricelMarcanton Art brand was inspired by the Maricel Marcantoni Art Collection. The artist brings to life colors and expressions through these art pieces. Each piece is a reminder to enjoy life to the fullest through the expression of color and light. Her niece, Gladys, has helped her successfully expand her paintings into swim and resort wear.

The Miami Swim Week® The Shows - The Shows showcases the best in swimwear fashion, highlighting inclusivity and sustainability. "We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting ethical and responsible fashion. This season we are opening up our platform to several emerging designers to share the stage at Miami Swim Week " said Moh Ducis, founder & CEO of the official Miami Swim Week® The Shows. This years sponsored included Kopu, Voga Italia, Red South Beach, Masami, Smart Water/Agua Fresca, LUCYD Eyewear. TOST Beverages, Mystic Tan X Norvell, Vice Spirits , Vip Me and Showfields.