Arts

Key West Art Center: Nurturing Keys Artists Since the 1930s

The Key West Art Center, whose origins date back to the 1930s, is renowned as the oldest artists’ membership organization in the Florida Keys. Its picturesque Front Street gallery features the work of more than 50 artists from the Keys, with a visual tapestry of color and creativity awaiting everyone who ventures inside.

By |2021-09-08T12:41:08-04:00February 3, 2021|

Dan Davis: Steward of Environmental Artistry

Florida Keys artist Dan Davis, owner of the online Florida Keys Ocean Gallery, uses the ancient Japanese art of gyotaku to create prints from fish he catches in Keys waters. He also educates art lovers about the need to preserve local waters that are home to a vast array of prized game fish.

By |2021-09-07T19:04:48-04:00January 27, 2021|

Six Ways to Savor Key West

As temperatures plunge in much of the United States, many people are seeking a place to avoid winter’s chill and continue to enjoy outdoor experiences. In Key West, the southernmost spot in the continental U.S., activities abound that enable participants to soak up salt air, balmy breezes and the island’s irresistibly laid-back vibe.

By |2021-05-13T16:12:22-04:00January 6, 2021|

A Presence of Peace Beneath the Sea

Among the Florida Keys’ most iconic landmarks is the "Christ of the Abyss" statue, placed in the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in 1965. Also called “Christ of the Deep,” the 9-foot bronze is a symbol for Key Largo's John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is part of the sanctuary.

By |2020-12-09T14:51:46-05:00December 9, 2020|

Jessica Ann Cecil: Steward of Marine Life Through Art

Islamorada artist Jessica Ann Cecil has a unique flair for painting marine life — and she’s passionate about using her art to connect patrons, clients and students with Florida Keys marine ecosystem conservation efforts. She often earmarks a percentage of art sales for Keys nonprofits including the Coral Restoration Foundation, Dolphins Plus and Save-A-Turtle.

By |2021-09-07T18:59:18-04:00July 29, 2020|

New Bob Dylan Song is Ode to ‘Enchanted’ Key West

Bob Dylan loves Key West. In fact, the legendary singer-songwriter immortalizes it as “the enchanted land” and “land of light” in “Key West (Philosopher Pirate),” a ballad on his new album “Rough and Rowdy Ways.” And a bar stool with his name on it can still be found at Capt. Tony’s Saloon.

By |2020-07-08T18:05:40-04:00July 8, 2020|

Discover the Keys ‘By the Book’

Many books about the Florida Keys are so well crafted that they seemingly transport readers to the island chain — portraying it so vividly that it’s almost possible to feel the humidity and smell the salt air. During this time of COVID-19 travel restrictions, what books provide the best “virtual visit” to the Keys?

By |2021-05-13T15:14:28-04:00May 6, 2020|

Five LGBTQ Cultural Icons Who Helped Shape Key West

Authors, playwrights, composers and poets have been lured to Key West by its one-of-a-kind environment of creativity, natural beauty and sometimes eccentric qualities — making it the muse for some of their most acclaimed career accomplishments. Those entranced by the island have included Tennessee Williams, Leonard Bernstein, Elizabeth Bishop, Terrence McNally and Jerry Herman.

By |2020-04-29T22:04:04-04:00April 29, 2020|

‘Keys Crafted’ Creativity Can Brighten Uncertain Times

While travel and socialization are largely at a standstill nationwide, one aspect of Florida Keys residents’ lives continues to flourish: their creativity. The Keys are home to artisan sandal makers, jewelry designers, producers of island-inspired beers and spirits, beekeepers and confectioners, and people whose passion is ceramics, woodcarving, metalwork, fine crafts and more.

By |2020-04-15T17:46:51-04:00April 15, 2020|
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