Although the historic 1935 Labor Day hurricane practically annihilated Islamorada (pronounced “I-La-Mor-Ada”) in the Upper Keys, this “Village of Islands” went on to become the Sport Fishing Capital of the World and still attracts professional and amateur anglers from all around the globe.
But Islamorada’s metamorphosis didn’t end there. Over the years, it has also evolved into a hip art colony where a spate of galleries and working studios are now home to a growing community of artists whose voice is defined predominantly by the local marine life.
It all started in 2011 when three longtime residents, Dick Hagood, Laurie Wickham, and artist Pasta Pantaleo established the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. This tranquil stretch of “Old Highway,” which parallels US 1 in the heart of “downtown” Islamorada, is book-ended by the historic Green Turtle Inn and Islamorada’s famous Hurricane Monument.
Flanked by colorful island houses, award-winning restaurants, and several unique, locally-owned shops, Morada Way is also home to the District’s monthly bazaar-style “Art Walk.” Created as a small venue for artists who had no gallery space of their own, this lively celebratory event now attracts thousands of people each month.
Staged every third Thursday night, the Morada Way Art Walk is a magnet for locals and passers-by who poke around the shops and galleries, chat with artists, and enjoy live music by local groups.
Bolstered by the event’s ongoing success and popularity, many local artists have now set up their own storefronts in the funky Morada Way neighborhood.
It is anchored by the highly acclaimed Red Bone Gallery (200 Morada Way), which showcases a veritable list of saltwater fishing art by a litany of renowned artists. Also, The Signature Gallery by famed marine Keys artist Pasta Pantaleo (81599 Old Hwy). The Morada Way Art & Cultural District also includes several other interesting art venues, such as Morada Way Clay (140 Morada Way,) which features local potters and offers classes, workshops, private instruction, and studio access.
Just a stone’s throw away is Florida Keys native and marine life artist Jessica Ann Art (151 Morada Way), known for her vibrant colors and bold, clean lines, which she often reproduces on clothing and fun accessories.
Inspired by the simple lifestyle and natural beauty of the Florida Keys, The Rum Brush (151 Morada Way) focuses predominantly on large-scale mixed media paintings and murals.
At Limelight Studio + Gallery (151 Morada Way), artists Susan and Jul Jankowski have joined creative forces in their new gallery, which also features the works of other talented artists.
Rising real estate prices have driven a few artists a few miles farther north.
Other noteworthy galleries in the area that you may want to check out are the BJ Royster Ocean Gallery (MM 81); Portside Studio & Gallery (MM 82); The Rain Barrel (MM 86.7); Our Place in Paradise (MM 88); Old Road Gallery (MM 88.8); and Gallery of the Arts (MM 89).
Of course, there are even more great discoveries in Key Largo, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and Key West, but that’s for another day.
Onward ho!
