On Friday, May 10, folk artist, third generation Cuban American and Key West native Wayne Garcia will present a night of eerie storytelling spotlighting the island’s ghost stories as part of the Key West Art & Historical Society’s Distinguished Speaker Series. His talk, entitled “They Only Follow Us At Night,” takes place from 6 to 7 p.m. at Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St.
Garcia will share yarns of old Key West, his memories from growing up, and several of the island’s lesser-known ghost stories. His tales will be accompanied by his colorful wood carvings and vintage photographs depicting the island’s idiosyncratic past.
“The society is delighted that Wayne has once again agreed to present an evening of Key West stories, using his striking artwork and the characters within as a visualization tool,” said Cori Convertito, curator for the society. “Wayne deftly weaves together thoughtful yet lighthearted accounts of the people, the places and the events that make us long for Old Key West, and I am eager to hear about the spirits that only come out at night.”
Garcia learned the techniques of carving on wood from watching legendary folk artists Mario Sanchez and Papito Suarez. Garcia literally and figuratively paints a picture of an island paradise rich in community and culture, validating all the reasons many of us have chosen Key West as home.Tickets are available at kwahs.org/dss-garcia. The cost $12 for KWAHS members, $15 for non-members. For more information, contact Convertito at 305-295-6616 x507 or cconvertito@kwahs.org.
