Sylvia Kanoff

A visionary artist recognized by the Museum of Contemporary Art for her unique approach to modern expression and storytelling.

About Me

Originally from New York, Sylvia Kanoff is an accomplished designer and teacher who has exhibited widely and to much acclaim in the New York metropolitan area.

The innovative arts programs that she developed for non-english speaking students won an award for both herself and for Nefesh Academy, the Brooklyn-based school that she and her husband Michael started in 1991 for Jewish refugee children from the former Soviet Union.

Sylvia moved to Miami Beach in 1999 with her family when she and her husband Michael took over the renovation of The Charles Group Hotels- five oceanfront hotels that required extensive redesign and renovation. In November 2001, Michael and Sylvia Kanoff were recipients of the prestigious Mayor’s award for the beautification of Miami Beach.

Sylvia is a graduate of the internationally acclaimed New York School for Interior Design, and has attended Brooklyn College as well as museum and botanical programs in New York and Pennsylvania.

In addition to being an artist and painter, Sylvia is now a published author. She is currently involved in writing and illustrating children’s literature.

Journey Through the Years

Key milestones in Sylvia's artistic and educational career

1991

developed award winning art program for european immigrants at Nefesh Academy in Brooklyn, NY

1999

relocated to miami beach to take on chief designer role in renovation of a major hotel chain, which led to the subsequent award.

2001

Beautification of Miami Beach Award.