How does a lighthouse become “obstinate?” Here at the edge of South Pointe Park, you’ll find out. This isn’t your typical lighthouse guiding ships with a beacon of hope. The South Pointe Park Lighthouse, completed in 2011, is a piece of art. It was designed by German artist Tobias Rehberger, who called it the “Obstinate Lighthouse”.
The lighthouse rises 55 feet, a jumble of nineteen staggered sections, defying the traditional sleek lighthouse silhouette. Its light doesn’t scan the ocean for ships in need of rescue. Instead, it bursts forth in a choreographed display of color and light, a vibrant symbol of Miami Beach’s energy. This lighthouse doesn’t guide ships, it greets visitors. It stands as a testament to Miami Beach’s commitment to public art. This unique landmark embodies the city’s spirit – playful, bold, and impossible to ignore. So next time you think of a lighthouse, remember the “Obstinate Lighthouse” of South Pointe Park, a place where art and function collide in a burst of color against the vast backdrop of the Atlantic.