Expert Artisans and Creative Explorations to be Showcased During June 1-20 ‘Summer Solstice Celebration’ in Key West

Key West, Fla. — More than a dozen gifted artisans are to demonstrate their creative alchemy and reveal its secrets in Key West during the “Summer Solstice Celebration,” set for June 1-20 at Mallory Square on the island’s historic harbor. Attendees can marvel at live painting showcases; learn about macrame, palm flower crafting and henna body art; make flower crowns long associated with the solstice; and much more.

The festival celebrates the enchantment and magic of the June 20 Summer Solstice, marking the official first day of summer and the longest day of the year, as well as personal renewal and the power of the sun. 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 with deft, elegant motions and a touch of conjuring talent — eliciting shapes that range from kinetic flowers and pet portraits to palm trees and other symbols associated with the Florida 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 them engaging in the creative process during our demonstration days, and discover unique art that captures a little bit of 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 for festival attendees 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.

In keeping with the mystical energy and illumination often linked to the solstice, demonstrations are to 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, enlightening tarot card readings, enticing food and drink from local vendors, and interactive opportunities to honor and learn about the power and mythology connected to the sun. 

Festival activities are set against the colorful backdrop of Key West’s Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, a nightly gathering founded some 50 years ago and now a beloved attraction for visitors and residents.
The “Summer Solstice Celebration” is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. Visit sunsetcelebration.org for more information and a schedule of events.