Upper Keys artist BJ Royster is renowned for painting transcendent underwater marine life scenes that exude a sense of calm and vivid peace. Realistic and inviting, her images encourage viewers to "dive in" and discover the Keys' ocean realm for themselves.
The Key West community remembers the late Gilbert Baker, creator of the original LGBT rainbow flag -- and working alongside him June 15, 2003, during Key West PrideFest, to unfurl a 1.25-mile-long 25th anniversary edition of the iconic flag along the entire length of Duval Street.
The Key West Songwriters Festival, called the largest event of its kind in the world, will rock the island May 10-14 -- with some 200 chart-topping songwriters, singers and entertainers taking the stage for more than 50 shows.
The world premiere of an innovative professional dance production will take place in Key West April 13-15, set against lush plants and trees on the oceanfront grounds of the Civil War-era West Martello Tower — with dancers and musicians appearing and performing, like elemental forest spirits, among the foliage.
Key West is well known for its residents’ welcoming and accepting attitude toward all people -- an attitude that gained formal recognition when local artist JT Thompson conceived the now global “One Human Family” concept.
The quirky, charismatic Florida Keys & Key West are connected by a vibrant community of creative spirits — and pieces of their work have been collected into a mural that bridges the Keys with colorful artistry. It’s called, fittingly, “The Connections Project: A Mosaic of the Keys."
In the laid-back Florida Keys, vacationing is an art form. And if you’re seeking cultural experiences to supplement the Keys’ subtropical “fun and sun” vibe, you’ll find arts offerings in just about every genre. Check out four can’t-miss gems to enjoy and remember.
Legendary gay playwright Tennessee Williams spent several decades living and writing in Key West — and today, two longtime residents are dedicated to preserving his legacy on the island he loved. Discover the Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit, and the guiding spirits who brought it to life.
For Morgan Rudluff, Key West’s third annual International Sand Art Competition offered a personal catharsis. For Rusty Croft and Abe Waterman, it provided an opportunity for thought-provoking social commentary. And for spectators watching six artists carve sand at the beachside challenge, it illustrated a triumph of passionate creativity.
When counting blessings in Key West, the list usually includes the year-round warm climate, genuinely caring community, “One Human Family” philosophy that promotes equality for all, lively arts and entertainment calendar, and beautiful natural surroundings -- but the Thanksgiving season provides a reason for some extra reflection and gratitude.