The Studios of Key West Welcomes the Community to First Thursday Art Opening on November 7, Featuring New Exhibitions Exploring Nature, Resilience, and Nostalgia

Debra Hill’s Now or Never

Key West, FL — On Thursday, November 7, from 6–8 pm, The Studios of Key West invites the public to its highly anticipated First Thursday event, featuring the opening of exhibitions that explore powerful themes of nature, resilience, and nostalgia. In addition to enjoying the exhibitions, visitors are welcome to experience Hugh’s View, The Studios’ scenic rooftop terrace, where stunning sunset views over Old Town Key West set the scene for an unforgettable evening.

In Submerged Serenity, on view in the Sanger Gallery, Australian artist Debra Hill delves into the lush, intricate flora and birdlife of her homeland, reflecting on humanity’s profound relationship with nature and one another. Her vibrant, nature-inspired works invite viewers to pause and consider their own connections to the environment, as well as the ties they share with others.

With It Only Hurts, on view in the XOJ Gallery, Key West artist Emma MacLean presents a powerful and deeply personal exploration of chronic pain. A chronically ill and disabled artist, MacLean uses 78 textile pieces to visualize the language of pain, with each piece representing a word from the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Through her painstakingly crafted textiles, MacLean brings visibility to the invisible and often isolating experience of chronic illness.

Key West native Catherine Solmo transports visitors to a bygone era in Memory Lane, a nostalgic series inspired by family stories and old photographs, on view in the Zabar Lobby Gallery. Her evocative paintings pay tribute to generations of Conchs and their traditions, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the island’s past and the vibrant lives of those who once called it home.

Also on display in the Zabar Project Gallery is a collection of student watercolors from a beachside workshop held this past June. Watercolor enthusiasts gathered just before sunset, armed with paints, brushes, and open imaginations. A selection of their works will be shown alongside one created by their instructor, Susan Sugar, celebrating both artistic growth and the collaborative spirit of the class.

The First Thursday event is free and open to all. To learn more about the exhibitions, classes, and events at The Studios of Key West, visit www.tskw.org.

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