The Key West Art & Historical Society will unveil its colorful new exhibition on Friday, May 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. “Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston” will be on display in the Bryan Gallery at the Key West Museum of Art & History, 281 Front St., through Nov. 9. The retrospective honors the artist, who died in 2019 and is recognized for his lively portrayals of Key West and its sunny island landscape.
Born in British Guyana, a nation rich in rainforests and waterfalls, Rolston’s early environment profoundly influenced his art. From a young age, he painted the lush landscapes that surrounded him. After spending three decades in New York City and South Florida, Rolston arrived in Key West and made it his home for over 20 years. The island’s turquoise waters, pastel conch houses and stunning sunsets became central to his work. His “Key West Colors” series earned him recognition as one of the island’s premier artists, while his engaging personality endeared him to visitors at the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, where he was a resident artist for years.
“This new exhibition, featuring over 40 paintings and personal effects, invites visitors to explore canvas after canvas filled with familiar landmarks, flora and fauna that are intricately blended in Rolston’s artwork,” says KWAHS curator and historian Cori Convertito. “He brought iconic island features like roosters, sailboats, palm trees and architecturally significant buildings to life with vibrant color and a playful perspective.”“Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston” runs until Nov. 9 in the Bryan Gallery of the Key West Museum of Art & History. More information is at kwahs.org/rolston-opening, or from Convertito on 305-295-6616 x 507 or via email to cconvertito@kwahs.org.
