Even when it comes to art galleries, folks in Key West [1] like to have a good time. The Key West Art Bar (901 Caroline St., 305/296-0424, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Mon.–Tues. and Sat., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Wed.–Fri., 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun.) is as much about displays of local art—mostly of the abstract and contemporary sort, along with some jewelry—as it is about wine tastings, burlesque shows, and movie nights. It’s a great combination of beautiful art and whimsical good times.
Two more great places for local art are the Island Arts Co-Op (1128 Duval St., 305/292-9909)—a friendly, funky place with lots of off-beat pieces—and Lucky Street Gallery (1130 Duval St., 305/294-3973, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., which is a bit more formal in its gallery approach, but the high-end contemporary fine art on display here is certainly worth a look.
For more information and deeper insight into the Key West cultural scene, stop into The Studios of Key West (600 White St., 305/296-0548), which in addition to hosting regular workshops and exhibits also puts on musical events and other affairs on a regular basis.
Nature-lovers and fans of more traditional art will want to head for the Audubon Gallery of Fine Art (205 Whitehead St., 305/294-2116, 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily), which has an extensive selection of John J. Audubon originals.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/florida/florida-keys/key-west