‘Connections Project’ Links Artists and Art Lovers Throughout Florida Keys

FLORIDA KEYS — Fans of visual art can find it in galleries, exhibitions and pocket parks throughout the Florida Keys island chain — but only in the Connections Project mural can they view the work of more than 300 creative Keys spirits in one vibrant mosaic.

“The Connections Project: A Mosaic of the Keys” is a large-scale mural created each year out of nearly 400 individual 6-inch-square canvases painted or adorned by local artists and arts supporters.

From conception to display, the colorful mosaic is spearheaded by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts..

“The mural celebrates the longstanding connection between the community and local cultural initiatives,” said Elizabeth Young, the arts council’s executive director.

Produced in mediums ranging from oils and watercolor to photography, beadwork, mixed media and quilting, the individual artists’ contributions showcase subjects including indigenous birds and sea life, tropical flowers and trees, waterfront scenes, abstract visions and local landmarks.

The mural is currently on display at Marathon’s Shady Palm Art Gallery, 2888 Overseas Highway, and can be viewed there until further notice.

After viewing the unique installation, art lovers can add pieces of it to their collection. Patrons can make a $50 donation for one individual canvas or a $125 donation for three online at keysarts.com. Patrons will receive randomly selected pieces of the mosaic by mail, each with an artist statement providing insight into the work.

Proceeds from the Connections Project benefit Keys artists and arts organizations through arts council grants.