Art

Question

Are there any art galleries, particularly contemporary art galleries, in Key West? I'm not talking crafts, jewelry or rooster/beach/cottage paintings, just original, interesting art.

Answer

Key West has a surprisingly vibrant contemporary art scene, beyond the typical touristy crafts and beach-themed art. While many galleries in Key West do feature souvenir-style work, there are several spaces dedicated to original and innovative contemporary pieces. The Old Town area, particularly around Duval Street and the surrounding side streets, is the hub for art galleries.

Some tips and highlights for contemporary art enthusiasts:

Frangipani Gallery: Focuses on contemporary and original works by local and international artists. It often features abstract, mixed media, and thought-provoking pieces rather than traditional Key West motifs.
Gallery on Greene: Offers a curated selection of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. They emphasize original works rather than mass-market items.
Wyland Galleries: While the focus is sometimes marine-inspired, it also features high-quality, original contemporary works that go beyond typical tourist themes.
Anne McKee Gallery: A well-regarded space for contemporary art, showcasing both emerging and established artists with varied styles and media.

Additional considerations:

Many galleries host openings or special events on the first Thursday of each month (“Art Walk”), which is a great opportunity to see a wide variety of contemporary art and meet the artists.
Exploring smaller side streets in Old Town often leads to hidden galleries with unique, original artwork that isn’t widely promoted.
While Key West is known for its lively tourist art, a little research or asking locals can point you toward more avant-garde or thought-provoking galleries that fit your interests.

Overall, while Key West has a reputation for rooster and beach-themed art, there are plenty of galleries offering contemporary, original works if you focus on the right streets and ask around for the “serious” art spots.