Mickey and the phantom menace

Mr Brainwash has arrived, hence Mickey Mouse and Star Wars stormtroopers guarding the building on the corner of Collins Avenue and 21st Street. Part of the street artist's pop-up exhibition, “Under Construction” (due to run until January), the show is advertised by a highway incident-style sign much to the chagrin of those in charge of traffic management in Miami Beach. Officials want the faux-road sign removed in double quick time. “They will never stop me,” declared Mr Brainwash. “I'm with the people and the people have the power.” This is an artist who wields clout. He convinced the empty building's owner to discount the rent, which ain't cheap on SoBe.

Published online 3 Dec 10