The photo [below] of Fort Lauderdale and the New River, by David Paulo, represents today’s South Florida. The painting [above] by Tim Forman, represents what has mostly been replaced.
By Nile Fortner | New Pelican Writer
Fort Lauderdale – Born and raised in Lauderhill, David Paulo, a graphic designer, found a new canvas behind the lens in 2023. Paulo, also known as Leather, turned to photography as another outlet for his creativity.
He’s always had an eye for composition and storytelling, but it has been his documentation of the city’s recognizable landmarks that have shaped his artistic journey. Each photo serves as a love letter and visual archive, and is a reminder to celebrate the everyday beauty, culture, and character of the community that raised him.
“I did it for myself first,” said Paulo. “But then for the community. People are just used to seeing Fort Lauderdale Beach, downtown, and the most popular areas. But me showcasing these little pocket neighborhoods and sections in Broward has grown to such national coverage and being a part of this exhibit.”
Paulo’s history runs just as deep as his photographs and artwork. Before his work found its way into gallery walls, he had a nickname in high school when a friend dubbed him “Leather” for his personality, joking that he was as smooth as leather itself. The original moniker, “Leatherface,” eventually evolved into David’s professional photography brand ShotByLeather.
Whether on Instagram or South Florida communities, his name is now recognized across South Florida.
Building on that momentum, Paulo, along with artist Tim Forman, will both be featured in “Timeless Tropics: Florida’s Changing Landscape,” presented by History Fort Lauderdale.
Photographer David Paulo, known as ShotByLeather, captures South Florida’s neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and everyday moments. [Courtesy]
The free summer art exhibition runs now through Sept. 13 at History Fort Lauderdale, 231 SW 2 Ave., and explores Florida’s evolving natural and urban environments through contemporary art and historical context. Alongside award-winning artist Tim Forman, Paulo’s work will be showcased with contextual historical maps that trace the transformation of the state’s timeless landscape.
“History Fort Lauderdale is proud to offer this inspiring and artistic look at how Florida’s landscape has changed throughout the years – from seascapes to skyscrapers – to commemorate our part in America’s 250 Celebration activities,” said Patricia Zeiler, executive director of History Fort Lauderdale. “Through historic maps, photographs, and artwork, guests of all ages can discover our region’s imperial origins, gorgeous vistas and creative urban cultures; all of which have contributed to our great city’s economic prosperity.”
Tim Forman brings the state’s natural beauty to life through his oil paintings of the Everglades, waterscapes, beaches, and native wildlife. Each of his pieces reflects a connection to South Florida’s identity. Born in 1986 and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Forman spent his childhood immersed in the natural local landscapes with days at the beach, fishing trips, and nights under the stars. He first picked up a paintbrush at around nine years old, learning early to observe the world and put it on canvas.
“My dad and grandfather were the ones who encouraged me to keep painting through my teenage years,” said Forman. “It is quite an adventure being a full-time professional artist.”
Award-winning artist Tim Forman brings Florida’s natural beauty to life through oil paintings inspired by the Everglades, beaches, his old fishing trips, and natural beauty found in landscapes in South Florida. [Courtesy]
In contrast, Paulo uses his documentary-style images of neighborhoods and local landmarks with cultural identity like Sistrunk, Lauderhill, Dania Beach and more. Together, their works are woven into historical narratives. Historical maps of Florida from pre-Revolutionary War/Spanish Florida in 1749 to British-controlled Florida in 1763 to Florida as a U.S. state in 1845 and illustrative panels will provide context and clarity about our history.
From Lauderhill streets and other local neighborhoods to sweeping oil paintings of Everglades horizons, “Timeless Tropics: Florida’s Changing Landscape” ultimately becomes a space and recognition between place, memory, and identity.
“I’ve been traveling to other areas,” said Paulo. “Detroit, Los Angeles, and Chicago. I want to showcase other cities that may not get the same spotlight. Show and tell about those untold stories and shine a light because people don’t recognize how much history was here. But when it comes to Broward, I have more to do, and we’re just getting our feet wet.”
Visit historyfortlauderdale.org or call 954-463-4431 for tickets.