DASS: The Art of Conversation
Downtown Arts + Science Salon (DASS)
We are a combination of open university and a local social club. The place to exchange ideas on scientific innovations, technological trends, books, art, and society.
THE ORIGINS
SALONS are organized in iconic venues. TANGO, a dance party at the stage of the historic Olympia Theater. Media and Politics at MDC. Evolutionary psychology at Books & Books, the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, or an Opera Master Class in a jazz club.
DASS was founded in 2014 by novelist and journalist Raul Guerrero and Marc Schmidt, a cardiologist and award-winning photographer. Raul Guerrero has authored various fiction and nonfiction books, including INSOLENCE, a historical novel that captures 1600 years of the modern era through anecdotes. And co-wrote a mini encyclopedia of the heart with Dr. Mauro Moscucci, former chair of the school of medicine at the University of Miami. He directs the Downtown News, and has contributed to publications worldwide.
Marc Schmidt's photography won first prize at the Miami History Museum's Street Photography Festival. More recently he was the official photographer for the acclaimed movie The Florida Project, for which its protagonist Willem Dafoe was nominated for the Oscar.
Raul Guerrero, Director and Academic Curator
Rguerrero@dassmiami.com
A WORD ON SALONS
Salons thrived in 18th Century Paris and other cities in Europe and America as an alternative to universities and rigorous scientific academies. The likes of Voltaire, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin were regulars at Salons and firm believers that knowledge and pleasure—food, wine and a little flirting—were not incompatible. On the contrary, complemented one another. Universities excluded women. Salons not only welcomed them the best were also run by women. DASS is also managed by a woman, a corporate lady who prefers anonymity.
DASS has brought great minds, leaders in their respective fields, and talented artist to engage downtown residents in stimulating conversation. Also, DASS has organized dance salons and fencing matches, wine tastings, et cetera.
The Miami New Times had to say about the Downtown Arts + Science Salon (DASS): "The best place in Miami to meet intelligent women."
Most salons are free and open to the public, but RSVP required.
Why? Asked a journalist.
Why what?
Why free?
Because cities are like lovers, you get what you give.
DASS has gathered a group of like-minded members who simply want to gift Downtown Miami the art of conversation, over a glass of wine or two.
DASS motto: Rediscover the art of conversation over a glass of wine.