The Meremaid Hunt
by Justin H. LongEXILE Projects is thrilled to announce the release of The Meremaid Hunt, a captivating new zine by Miami-based artist Justin H. Long, launching January 16, 2025, at Gramps Getaway in Virginia Key. This one-of-a-kind publication invites readers on an experiential treasure hunt that uncovers the rich nautical history and lore of Miami-Dade County’s landscapes.
Inspired by the iconic Tropic Hunt (formerly the Herald Hunt), a beloved Miami tradition of clue-solving and exploration, The Meremaid Hunt challenges participants to embark on a modern-day odyssey. This interactive project takes readers through 13 unique and often-overlooked locations in Miami-Dade, each offering numeric clues that lead to the ultimate discovery: The Meremaid, a new sculpture by Long.
For over 20 years, Long has explored themes of searching, memory, and map-making in his artistic practice, drawing on the learned navigation techniques that have historically guided explorers through Florida’s swampy wilderness. His Meremaid sculptures honor the region’s maritime past while nodding to prehistoric Venus figurines—celebrating the enduring allure of the female form.
The Meremaid Hunt zine serves as both a guidebook and an artifact, designed to transport participants into a world of forgotten stories and hidden treasures. From tales of mermaids mistaken for manatees by Conquistadors to the secrets held by Miami’s swamps and waterways, this project reimagines our landscape through the lens of art, history, and adventure.
Join us at Gramps Getaway to celebrate this exciting release with Justin H. Long and be among the first to embark on the hunt. Zines will be available, along with the chance to test your clue-solving skills and become a part of Miami’s creative storytelling legacy.
The Meremaid Has Surfaced! A Legendary Hunt Comes to a Close
The treasure has been found, and the legend lives on! After weeks of mystery, intrigue, and relentless pursuit, Lily Vidal emerged victorious, uncovering the elusive Meremaid, a stunning new sculpture by Justin H. Long.
On February 19, we gathered at The Wetlab to raise a well-earned toast to Lily and mark the end of the search. The evening brought together those who took part in the hunt, whether by deciphering clues, exploring the city, or simply following along.
The Meremaid Hunt, a zine by Justin H. Long, led participants on an unforgettable journey through Miami-Dade’s lesser-known gems. Each clue uncovered a piece of the city’s rich history and character, hidden in some of the most unexpected places.
This hunt wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible spaces that hosted clues along the way. A huge thank you to:
Gramps Getaway
The Barnacle
The Wet Lab
International Inn on the Bay
Flanigan’s
Stone Age Antiques
Long’s Motorcycle Sales
Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center
Emerson Dorsch Gallery
The Cleat
Sewell Park
US Sailing Center
Jumbo’s Restaurant
And special shoutouts to our honorable mentions:
Bird Bowl
Arbetter’s Hotdogs
Everglades City
To everyone who took part in this adventure—thank you for making this treasure hunt one for the books! Until the next mystery unfolds, stay curious, stay bold, and keep searching.
Bio:
Justin Hayes Long (b. 1980, Miami FL) addresses cultural phenomena related to his subtropical roots, often using irreverent humor and pop-cultural signifiers to propose constructs of freedom and privilege, and abuses of power as it relates to the physical environment and capitalism. He is known for work that combines nautical history with the seafarer’s craft through sculpture, painting, writing, video, performative interventions, and structured installations. JHL holds a MFA from CalArts, Valencia CA, teaches sculpture at the University of Miami and is Production Manager for Fringe Projects Miami. Selected group exhibitions include those at Contemporary Arts Center (New Orleans, LA), The Fabric Workshop and Museum (Philadelphia, PA) the De la Cruz Collection (Miami, FL). Selected solo exhibitions include those at The Bass Museum of Art (Miami Beach, FL), Emerson Dorsch Gallery (Miami, FL), and Art & Culture Center/Hollywood (Hollywood, FL). His work is part of private collections including the Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami, and he is a recipient of artist support grants including the Wavemaker – Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts and the Ellies from Oolite Arts. He lives and works in Miami, FL.
For more information:
IG: @themeremaidhunt
Website: www.justinhlong.com
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