“Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston” Exhibit Opening at the Key West Museum of Art & History

“Whitehead Street,” an acrylic painting on canvas by notable Key West artist Ray Rolston, is one of over forty pieces included in the Key West Museum of Art & History’s upcoming exhibition, “Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston.”  The exhibition opens on May 30 with a free public reception from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  (Photo Credit: Ray Rolston Family)

“Hemingway House,” an acrylic painting on canvas by notable Key West artist Ray Rolston, is one of over forty pieces included in the Key West Museum of Art & History’s upcoming exhibition, “Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston.” The exhibition opens on May 30 with a free public reception from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Photo Credit: Ray Rolston Family)

May 19, 2025 – (KEY WEST, FL).  The Key West Art & Historical Society cordially invites the public to a special gathering on May 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to honor the unveiling of its latest exhibition, “Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston.”  The exhibition will be displayed in the Bryan Gallery at the Key West Museum of Art & History, situated at 281 Front Street.  The retrospective honors the renowned artist who passed away in 2019 and is recognized for his lively portrayals of Key West and its colorful island landscape.

Born in British Guyana, a nation rich in dense rainforests and cascading waterfalls, Rolston’s early environment profoundly influenced his artistic vision.  From a young age, he immersed himself in painting the lush landscapes surrounding his hometown.  After spending three decades in New York City and South Florida, Rolston found his true muse in the Florida Keys, making Key West his home for over twenty years.  The island’s turquoise waters, historic conch houses, and mesmerizing sunsets became central themes in his work.  His remarkable “Key West Colors” series masterfully captured the island’s essence, earning him recognition as one of its premier artists.  It was his engaging personality and zest for life that endeared him to visitors to the world-famous Sunset Celebration at Mallory Pier, where he was a resident artist for years.

“This new exhibition, featuring over forty paintings and personal effects, provides an exciting visual journey, inviting visitors to explore canvas after canvas filled with iconic landmarks, flora, and fauna that are intricately blended into Rolston’s tropical artwork,” says Cori Convertito, PhD.  “He skillfully portrayed familiar island features like roosters, sailboats, palm trees, and architecturally significant buildings, all brought to life with a vibrant color scheme and a playful perspective.”

“Key West Colors: The Art of Ray Rolston” runs until November 9 in the Bryan Gallery of the Key West Museum of Art & History.  For more information on the exhibit or the public reception, visit www.kwahs.org/rolston-opening, call Convertito on 305-295-6616 x 507 or email [email protected].

Your Museums.  Your Community.  It takes an Island.