Like Fantasy Fest parade grand marshal Mike Stack and theme contest winner Stephanie Southgate, local artist Brian Butler has an extra reason to celebrate at this year’s festivities. Butler joins the ranks of previous artists like Rick Worth, Carie Disrud and Lady Outrageous; his winning design will grace the annual Fantasy Fest poster and collectible T-shirts.
As with other elements of Fantasy Fest, as the festival grew, the design of the poster became contest-based. Open to all, the rules are straightforward: No AI-generated images, and artwork must “creatively reflect the official festival theme and the whimsy of Key West in a vertical format.” Entries submitted by the end of July are considered for the $1,000 prize, plus widespread distribution of the design.
For Butler, this year’s theme, “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals,” conceived and submitted by Southgate, was easy inspiration as it encompasses two of Butler’s favorite subjects — music and Florida. A prolific illustrator, Butler has embedded himself in the music world as both a designer and as a concert illustrator, known for making sketchbook recaps of moments at major festivals and gigs across the globe. His home state provides equal fodder.
“Florida finds its way into so much of my artwork. But something I’ve been excited about is to contribute artwork back into the state’s unique culture,” he said. “At this point I’ve hosted drawing events and painted murals across the state. It’s led to major projects for the Miami Heat, Florida Panthers and Inter Miami. We’re lucky to have such a fun and expressive festival in Key West. It’s part of the culture that makes Florida so special. Further, it’s a privilege to have my poster in the company of so many fantastic past designs.”
Butler’s intent for this year’s poster was to make it accessible to all audiences with references throughout the design that have broad appeal, including nods to Prince, Madonna, David Bowie, the Beatles, Grateful Dead and the Rolling Stones, along with musicals like “Wicked,” “Kinky Boots,” “Hairspray,” “Cats” and “Fiddler on the Roof.” And given his love for South Florida, Butler worked in several nods to local cultural icons like the Sponge Yeti and Robert the Doll. Butler considers himself a keen observer whose first language is drawing. That’s evident in this finished piece, which is equal parts witty and playful, fresh and familiar. Butler is happy with the final product.
“I’m excited to see my poster everywhere this year. I have plans to be around all week. I’ll be painting live on behalf of the festival and making illustrated reports in my sketchbook.”
All are invited to meet the artist at his poster-signing party on Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the La Concha Key West hotel.
