NaMa Native Landscapes was founded in 2018 by Natalia Manrique and Mauricio Gonzalez, long-time friends of Green Religion founder John DeFaro. The couple and co-founders of NaMa strive to offer a sustainable alternative that actively combats the negative impacts of traditional landscaping practices on our environment and economy. They are committed to demonstrating the benefits of better plant selection, arrangement, proper watering methods, and more. Native landscaping supports biodiversity and pollination, helping to restore and protect South Florida’s delicate ecosystem.
Mauricio Gonzalez was born in 1978 in Havana and arrived in the United States in 2000. Predominantly a visual artist and painter, his work reflects an integrated, autobiographical practice that challenges and demystifies painting. With a deep affection for nature and all that grows, Mauricio now creates ethereal drawings and watercolors that beautifully reflect and enhance NaMa’s successful landscape projects. These personal and visionary creations are gifted to friends and family. Gonzalez’s work has been exhibited at Miami’s renowned Frederick Snitzer Gallery and Locust Projects and has been acquired by the Martin Margulies Collection in Miami and the Cohen Family Collection in New York, among others.
Natalia Manrique, an accomplished artist and astute gardener, holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual and Performing Arts from the University of Florida. With creativity deeply rooted in the couple’s shared passions and an active studio practice, they bring even more to the “green game of life.” Their Instagram account, @namaprojects, showcases new urban jewelry ventures that repurpose materials into colorful, petite wearables that delight the eye.
Both Natalia and Mauricio have dedicated considerable time to horticultural studies and sustainable land and gardening certifications in recent years.
FLORA of Miami!
Natalia and Mauricio have opened the first native garden center in Miami. John DeFaro’s tour was inspiring. Natalia greeted John on the garden center’s soil, followed by a walk as she shared the center’s mission. She explained their dedication to sustainable living and best green landscaping practices. The variety of locally sourced plants was abundant, with all leaves full and vibrant.
The center offers a wide variety of locally sourced native plants, ranging from 1-gallon pots to large trees, along with expert advice rooted in experience and passion. Workshops, events, and services are available for visitors, meeting the highest native horticulture standards. The goal is to promote biodiversity by educating customers on the benefits of native plants while providing a unique shopping experience. John left with a familiar appreciation: the joy of slowing down with friends and plants, the place where he thrives with his Green Religion, garden-based healing, and connection to the earth.
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