Wyland to paint live at History of Diving Museum

Wyland and Fabien Cousteau at Aquarius Reef Base. CONTRIBUTED

A special pop-up event welcomes world-renowned marine artist Wyland for a live painting at the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada on Friday, June 4 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Wyland will be painting in the museum library where attendees will get a chance to join a meet-and-greet while observing him create the art. At least four original pieces will be auctioned for $2,500 each, during the event. Attendees will have an opportunity to take home their customized Wyland original.

All attendees will receive a swag bag, which includes a free gift autographed by Wyland. This is a special ticketed event and includes a docent-guided tour of the museum. Ten tours of eight guests will be guided through the exhibits, ending in the library to meet the artist. Wyland merchandise will also be available for purchase and then have autographed on-site. Light appetizers and a cash bar will be provided by Green Turtle Inn. Tickets are $75 each, with a $50 discount offered on a group tour package for up to eight.

Wyland at the History of Diving Museum. CONTRIBUTED

Throughout the museum both divers and land-lovers alike are amazed by over 4,000 years of “the quest to explore under the sea.” From early breath-hold diving to venturing into the abyss, see how pioneers shaped our understanding of the world below, and learn about the unique south Florida connection to the development of diving around the world. Proceeds from the event will benefit both the Wyland Foundation and History of Diving museum’s educational outreach efforts.  

To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, contact programs@divingmuseum.org or call the museum at 305-664-9737.

Proceeds from the event will benefit both the Wyland Foundation and History of Diving Museum’s educational outreach efforts.   

The History of Diving Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in Islamorada (MM83). Check out DivingMuseum.org to find out more, become a member or shop at the Museum Store.

Jim McCarthy
Jim McCarthy is one of the many Western New Yorkers who escaped the snow and frigid temperatures for warm living by the water. A former crime & court reporter and city editor for two Western New York newspapers, Jim has been honing his craft since he graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 2014. In his 4-plus years in the Keys, Jim has enjoyed connecting with the community. “One of my college professors would always preach to be curious,” he said. “Behind every person is a story that’s unique to them, and one worth telling. As writers, we are the ones who paint the pictures in the readers minds of the emotions, the struggles and the triumphs.” Jim is past president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, which is composed of energetic members who serve the community’s youth and older populations. Jim is a sports fanatic who loves to watch football, hockey, mixed martial arts and golf. He also enjoys time with family and his new baby boy, Lucas, who arrived Oct. 4, 2022.