More than a dozen artisans will demonstrate their creative abilities in Key West during the Summer Solstice Celebration, set for June 1-20 at Mallory Square. Attendees can watch live painting showcases; learn about macrame, palm flower crafting and henna body art; make flower crowns associated with the solstice and more.
The festival celebrates the June 20 summer solstice, marking the official first day of summer and the longest day of the year. Presented by the Key West Cultural Preservation Society, organizer of the nightly Mallory Square sunset gathering, events begin at 7 p.m. and continue until after the sun goes down.
Among the featured artisans is wire sculptor Ryan Stimers, who bends and twists shining strands of wire into intricate forms that range from kinetic flowers and pet portraits to palm trees and other symbols associated with the Keys.
Stimers refined his wire wizardry while traveling through Europe and to South America and Australia. Since settling in Key West 20 years ago, he has emerged as a respected local artisan and is one of the organizers of the Summer Solstice Celebration.
“This event will give Key West visitors a chance to interact with local artists and craftspeople, observe their creative process during our demonstration days, and discover unique art that captures the spirit of the island,” said Stimers, who intends to stage wire sculpture giveaways as well as demonstrations during the festival.
Others scheduled to showcase their talents include painters Kaley Bentz, Sean Dwyer and Theresa Chiechi; macrame masters Lisa and Gary Ford; henna artisan and painter Alisa Mealor; “boho beach” jewelry maker Rachel Burrows; silkscreen expert Joanne Hasman; soap crafter Samantha Gonzalez; Isaac and Danay Valdes, skilled in intaglio wood carving and hand painting; dichroic glass jewelry creator Johnathan Craft; and Susan Schaal with her custom-made dog products.
Demonstrations will conclude with a June 20 presentation of “digital dreamscapes” by colorist and digital impressionist Nicholas Bergery.
The Summer Solstice Celebration also features live shows by local and visiting street performers, island-style music, daredevil performances and demonstrations, tarot card readings, food and drink from local vendors, and opportunities to honor and learn about the power and mythology connected to the sun.
Festival activities are set against the backdrop of Key West’s Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, a nightly gathering founded some 50 years ago.
The Summer Solstice Celebration is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. More information is at sunsetcelebration.org.
