“Under the Hindu Sky” Master Artist Steve Bickis at Key West Collective

It’s hard to believe that one of Key West’s most acclaimed artists, Steve Bickis started as a sign painter. Back then, Bickis had no idea that he was on the precipice of becoming a highly sought-after master artist.

Some call talented artists like Steve Bickis “generational.” Perhaps it’s because Bickis’s combination of skill, impact, and contributions is so profound that it sets new benchmarks for excellence.

Seeing the world through multiple lenses, Bickis pursues a spirit of freedom in every piece he creates. And nowhere is that more apparent than in his stunning painting, “Under the Hindu Sky.” Gracing the cover of DESTINATION FLORIDA’s special Tenth Anniversary Edition, Bickis’s centennial commemoration of the renowned Schooner Hindu is especially outstanding.

This significant work captures the enduring spirit of the 1925 wooden, gaff‑rigged vessel, which traversed a century of history and is now an iconic presence in Key West’s Historic Seaport. With a masterful touch that evokes the spirit of legendary artist Winslow Homer, Bickis imbues a timeless quality to the painting and offers a refined glimpse into the legacy of the meticulously restored maritime legend.

Grounded in the island’s distinctive character and community, Bickis draws his inspiration from its people, historic architecture, and natural light. In his regionalist-style paintings, he captures familiar everyday scenes and landmarks — Banyan trees, conch houses, bicycles, and street scenes — all rendered with a clear and honest eye that reflects the beauty and reality of Key West life.

Painted with acrylics on canvas, and framed with repurposed Dade County Pine, Bickis’s stunning “Under the Hindu Sky” painting, along with a collection of his other original works, is now on display at Key West Collective, a Ligon Whitcomb Gallery.

Located in Key West’s Historic Seaport, this beautifully curated art gallery, led by Maggie Whitcomb, a longtime arts advocate and founder of the Florida Keys Community Land Trust, is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm and also showcases contemporary works celebrating many other local artists.