The Vision behind the proposal for The Glenn Curtiss and June Bug Legacy Memorial.
Meet Natalie Plasencia Calvo: Miami Springs Artist & Visionary
We're incredibly fortunate to have such a talented artist at the heart of this proposed memorial!
Meet Natalie Plasencia Calvo, a Cuban American sculptor, whose work is as heartfelt as it is powerful. Raised in Hialeah, Natalie sees art as a spiritual practice, each creation a reflection of prayer, purpose, and soul. With a unique background in fine arts and social work, she weaves together deep symbolism and diverse materials like wax, metal, and fabric to tell meaningful stories. Her sculptures don’t just inspire, they advocate, especially for women, children, and underserved communities. Through every piece, Natalie honors themes of dignity, faith, and the human spirit, making her a true visionary in our South Florida art scene. Natalie is a passionate and caring member of our community, known not only for her artistic talent but also for her heartfelt commitment to the city. A proud member of the Woman’s Club, she continues to enrich the spirit of our city through her involvement and creativity. Her husband, Juan Calvo, an architect and board member of the Historic Preservation Board of Miami Springs, shares her dedication to honoring our city’s legacy. Together with their wonderful children, the Calvo family embodies everything Miami Springs stands for: family! Or as I like to call them, "Miami Springs' Dynamic Duo".
Natalie's impressive projects include:
The Fisherman (8'2" Big Pine Key)
Stella Maris (Bronze 13' Key West)
Paya Memorial (Bronze Relief for City of Hialeah)
Bringing Our History to Life
On June 11, 2025, something powerful happened at City Hall. The room was packed, the energy was high, and then, the mic dropped. We witnessed local artist Natalie Plasencia unveil a deeply heartfelt concept for a monument honoring our city’s founder, Glenn Curtiss. But this wasn’t just a presentation, it was the sharing of a dream, a vision brought to life with passion, artistry, and purpose.
Standing alongside her husband, Juan Calvo, Natalie presented a monument that left people in awe. It was bold, elegant, and visionary, "a piece that looked like it belonged in the National Mall in Washington, D.C.", said councilman Fabian Perez-Crespo, but was designed for the very heart of our own city.
The proposed monument is more than a statue, it’s an educational experience, a symbol of identity, and a tribute to legacy. As Natalie beautifully explained:
“As a public art installation in Miami Springs, this monument honors Curtiss, not only as a historic figure, but as a living presence in the city’s identity. It invites residents, students, and visitors to engage with the story of a man who reshaped the sky and the land beneath it.”
As the renderings lit up the room, applause broke out. I even heard someone whisper behind me- “This is beautiful.” -and it truly was.
Glenn Curtiss' Legacy Takes Flight with Two New Memorials
Honoring Our Founder: The Glenn Curtiss Memorial
The sculpture will portray Curtiss standing proudly, dressed in his early 20th-century attire, complete with his iconic aviation cap. His calm, forward-looking posture perfectly captures the quiet determination and visionary spirit that shaped both his character and his immense contributions to American history. The base of the sculpture will be a substantial concrete foundation, beautifully adorned with four bronze reliefs. These artistic panels will vividly depict the diverse facets of his extraordinary life: as an Aviation Pioneer, a Military Innovator, a dedicated City Builder (that's us!), and a true Motorcycle Legend. This memorial will be a timeless tribute to the man who literally helped us take flight.
Step Into History: The June Bug Legacy Memorial
The June Bug Legacy Memorial will be a unique, walk-through metal structure, meticulously modeled to scale from the very wings of Curtiss's famous June Bug airplane.
As you walk through it, you'll discover a fascinating timeline of his life and accomplishments, seamlessly integrated into the design. This memorial is designed to be both an educational and experiential piece.
And here's another exciting detail: this memorial will also provide wonderful donor opportunities! You can become a part of preserving his legacy by sponsoring various points along the timeline.
Natalie's sketch of
Glenn Curtiss.
Photo from the Glenn Curtiss Museum
Photo from the Glenn Curtiss Museum
The Beloved Cavalier Clock: A Piece of Our History
For those new to our wonderful city, if you've ever found yourself in the Circle, you've likely spotted the beautiful Cavalier Clock standing on Curtiss Parkway. It's more than just a timepiece; it holds a powerful piece of Miami Springs history!
Installed in 2018, this four-sided street clock was a generous gift from the Lowell S. and Betty L. Dunn Family Foundation. It stands as a heartfelt tribute to John A. Cavalier Jr., one of Miami Springs' most dedicated mayors. Mayor Cavalier proudly served our city for 16 years, with two terms as mayor from 1979 to 1987 and again from 1993 to 2001. During his time in office, he led with incredible vision and heart. He championed efforts to beautify our city, spearheaded the creation of the iconic Westward Drive walking path, and bravely defended Miami Springs against airport expansion. He truly believed in preserving the unique charm of our city, and his dedication still shines through today.
The Cavalier Clock is a beautiful reminder of how one person's profound love for this city helped shape it into the family-centered, beautiful community we all cherish.
A New Home for a Cherished Landmark!
The clock undeniably holds a special place in our city's heart and should continue to be a prominent feature at the Circle. But what to do with the Cavalier clock? Our talented local artist, Natalie Plasencia Calvo, and her husband Juan Calvo, had a brilliant idea: why not move it to a location that truly honors Mayor Cavalier's legacy?
This new placement would allow the clock to truly stand out, giving it a prominent place that specifically celebrates John A. Cavalier's vision for his transformation of Westward Drive. It's a wonderful way to connect the memorial directly to one of his most beloved achievements.
What about the Cavalier Clock?
Former Mayor John A. Cavalier Jr.
Miami Springs has long deserved a fitting tribute to Glenn Curtiss - not a simple nod - but a grand, lasting monument that honors a true aviation legend. Curtiss wasn’t just our founder; he was a national figure who transformed aviation. He earned the title “Father of Naval Aviation,” pioneered the first seaplanes, introduced ailerons and lightweight engines, and led the team behind the NC-4 flying boat, which completed the first transatlantic flight in 1919.
Thanks to Natalie's vision and heartfelt tribute, The Glenn Curtiss Memorial and The June Bug Legacy Memorial, will be an enduring testament to a man whose vision soared beyond the horizon .
Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting projects take shape!
Leaving a Legacy!
