As Miami prepares to step onto the world stage during one of the most anticipated moments in global sport, Bal Harbour Village will present 12 Pentagons at Bal Harbour Shops, a multi-dimensional art installation and immersive activation by British multidisciplinary artist and football designer Jon-Paul Wheatley, founder of the globally recognized football design studio 12 Pentagons. Through his platform @jonpaulsballs, Wheatley has cultivated a worldwide following of more than 1.7 million by documenting his meticulous process of handcrafting one-of-one soccer balls that blur the lines between sport, design object, and contemporary art. His work has attracted collaborations with FIFA, Adidas, and Burberry, while select designs are released through 12 Pentagons in highly limited quantities as collectible functional artworks. On view from June 10 through June 28 at Bal Harbour Shops, the installation explores the intersection of soccer, craftsmanship, design, and contemporary culture through Wheatley’s internationally recognized “Badly Drawn Ball” concept.
Known for transforming soccer balls into sculptural objects and storytelling mediums, Wheatley’s work has garnered international attention for its ability to merge sport with artistry and human imperfection. Inspired by hand-drawn soccer ball sketches submitted from individuals around the world, the “Badly Drawn Ball” series reinterprets one of sport’s most recognizable symbols through a deeply personal and artistic lens — celebrating creativity, individuality, and community participation.
At the center of the activation will be a monumental oversized soccer ball installation positioned within the iconic Center Courtyard of Bal Harbour Shops, creating a striking visual centerpiece and immersive public art moment. Modeled after Wheatley’s acclaimed “Badly Drawn Ball” works, the sculpture transforms the open-air luxury destination into an experiential cultural landmark during the height of Miami’s international soccer season.
Expanding beyond the large-scale sculpture, the activation will invite visitors to engage directly with the creative process through an interactive digital installation where guests can sketch their own “badly drawn” soccer ball designs, contributing to an evolving global archive of artwork and participation. A dedicated visual display throughout the installation will also showcase behind-the-scenes footage documenting Wheatley’s meticulous handcrafted process, offering visitors an intimate look into the artistry and craftsmanship behind each creation.
The experience will further extend into retail and collectible offerings throughout Bal Harbour Shops, including limited-edition merchandise, signed posters, and exclusive merchandise available to guests, Bal Harbour Village residents, and Bal Harbour Shops Access Members. Designed as collectible keepsakes commemorating the installation and the city’s global soccer moment, the curated offerings reinforce the activation’s blend of luxury retail, design, and cultural storytelling.
In addition, Wheatley will create bespoke video and social content documenting the evolution of the installation and activation, amplifying the experience across digital and social platforms while positioning Bal Harbour Village and Bal Harbour Shops at the forefront of cultural conversation surrounding art and sport.
“Bal Harbour Village embraces experiences that bring together culture, creativity, and global connection,” said Mayor Seth Salver of Bal Harbour Village. “As the world’s attention turns to Miami during this extraordinary moment for international soccer, 12 Pentagons offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the sport through the lens of contemporary art and community engagement. We are proud to present this installation that reflects the energy, diversity, and international spirit that defines Bal Harbour.”
Following its presentation at Bal Harbour Shops, the larger-than-life sculpture will relocate to Bal Harbour Village Beach from July 1 through July 27, where the installation will take on a new dimension against Miami’s iconic waterfront backdrop, further connecting the worlds of contemporary art, destination-driven luxury, and global sport. Well known as one of South Florida’s most sought-after oceanfront destinations, Bal Harbour Village welcomes 12 Pentagons as it celebrates 80 years.
Furthering its celebration of the global spirit of soccer, Bal Harbour Village has partnered with the Museum of Art and Design (MOAD) to offer complimentary access for Village residents and hotel guests to experience the FIFA Museum’s “Unidad – The World’s Game,” an immersive exhibition taking over Miami’s iconic Freedom Tower. Exploring the unifying power of the world’s most beloved sport, the exhibition invites visitors on a dynamic journey through soccer’s cultural impact and evolving legacy in the United States. Through historic artifacts, interactive experiences, immersive installations, and a special “Legacy of Champions” tribute, Unidad offers a compelling look at the defining moments, stories, and communities that continue to shape the game on a global scale. The partnership further expands Bal Harbour Village’s Unscripted Art Access Program, offering Village residents and hotel guests complimentary access to Miami’s most celebrated cultural institutions.
Positioned at the intersection of art, community, and international culture, these offerings reflect Bal Harbour Village’s continued commitment to immersive programming and experiential storytelling that resonates both locally and globally.
