Unless you’ve spent time in the Keys, you’ve probably never heard of Stock Island. 
This tiny spit of land, just across the channel from Key West, has an eclectic, rustic charm all its own. Some say that Stock Island’s Safe Harbor area was once a staging hub for the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba in 1961 and the home port for a ferry to Havana.
One thing’s for sure: Stock Island has always been a rough and tumble working community — from its days as a freighter port for livery ‘stock’ to today’s bustling marina where shrimpers, anglers, and liveaboards keep the docks jumpin’. Despite a recent surge of development that brought in several highly acclaimed restaurants, upscale resorts and a very cool Arts District, Stock Island still retains its original island-funk vibe. The Arts District is especially cool and includes dozens of artist studios, including Collections, Key West, a wonderful off-the-beaten-path gallery tucked right by the docks next to the Hogfish restaurant at Safe Harbor Marina.
Artist/owner Karen Wray has put together a unique mix of classical and modern paintings, kinetic sculpture, antiques, fine wood furniture, jewelry, and collectibles, all reflecting various insights into the island’s true nature. In unison with Collection’s gallery, Key West Woodworks is the longest-running custom woodworking shop in the Keys. Having their own sawmill affords access to the islands’ exotic tropical hardwoods: Cuban Mahogany, Woman’s Tongue, Jamaica Dogwood, Buttonwood, and Tamarind, to name just a few. Whether you are interested in a one-of-a-kind dining room table or you want to purchase raw wood slabs for your projects, these people can show you a wealth of wood. Their motto: “Wood is Good.”
The Art Shack at 6404 Front Street is another intriguing place to check out. This 5,000-square-foot compound houses a charming artist community with shipping container studios showcasing 19 local artists who work in various disciplines. There are also food carts, craft stalls and kitschy souvenirs. Rounding out the rest of Stock Island’s Art District is a variety of eclectic shops and working studios that showcase everything from sculptures, woodworking, painting and mosaics to screen printing, soaps, and fabric art.
Stand-alone studios open for viewing include Yodanis Studios, Stockyard Studios, SoulHouse, Washed Up Studios, Green Pineapple at The Perry Hotel Key West, and The Studios at Stock Island Marina Village.
FYI: On the Second Saturday of every month, you can “stroll at leisure” from 11 am to 4 pm between the studios and shops where some artists offer drawings for great prizes as well as delicious food and beverages. Look for the bright pink ‘Arts District’ banners flying proudly at each location and follow the route on the mobile map, which you can access at ILoveStockIsland.org. It’s free to attend, and parking is free.
Top Image: Collections, Key West
Smaller Image: The Art Shack
