Artist Karen Wray loves her life on Stock Island. She’s been a “Wharf Rat” for over 35 years, long before this tiny spit of land just across the channel from Key West was the hip place it is today.
Her edgy off-the-beaten-path art gallery, Collections Key West, is tucked right by the docks next to the Hogfish restaurant at Safe Harbor Marina. Located upstairs in the former Stock Island Yacht Club (now a private dinner club), Collections Key West is not just the island’s premier art gallery; it’s an “Art Happening.” In addition to her expansive gallery, Karen collaborates with a personal chef, Martin Liz, and his Lost Kitchen Supper Club for special events and openings. Rotating menus, chefs, and themes highlight each event.
Karen has masterfully curated a unique mix of classical and modern paint-ings, kinetic sculpture, exquisite lamps, antiques, fine wood furniture, jewelry, and island collectibles as well as art relics from around the world The show is ever-changing and always unfolding.
In unison with Collections Gallery, she and her husband Jimmy also own Key West Woodworks – the longest-running custom woodworking shop in the Keys. Having their own sawmill affords them access to some of the islands’ most exotic tropical hardwoods: locally harvested Mahogany, Woman’s Tongue, Jamaica Dogwood, Buttonwood, and Tamarind, just to name just a few. They stock thousands of board feet for just about any project imaginable.
You can find them both at 6810 Front Street on Stock Island. If Karen’s not in dollars to donuts, she’s hanging out on the docks finding inspiration for her next project. Just ring her up at 305-923-4778 (Collections) or buzz Jimmy at 305-394-5249 (Key West Woodworks).
See you on the dock!
