Commenting upon the artistic persuasion of Key Largo is happily an effortless task. For openers there’s the inexpressible weather: azure dome, dazzling sunshine, palm trees swaying in a balmy sea breeze and astronomic temperatures. All this whilst lounging languidly by a pool of turquoise water surrounded by Buttonwood Bay bushes. Occasionally an exotic iguana enhances the subtropical ambiance.
By coincidence I have lately encountered an active artistic element among certain of the residents of Buttonwood Bay. For example, there is set upon the console in the drawing room of our townhouse a watercolour painting by one James I. Mahla.
I discovered a visiting card pasted onto the back of the painting. I thought to send an email to see what if anything transpired. Herewith is the reply I received:
Hi Bill, thanks for reaching out. My wife Pat and I rented in BB for I believe nine winters. Our first year was in the U building. We moved to five different units over that time, finishing up five years ago in a bay front unit.
I was involved with the Purple Isles Art Guild. I have been painting watercolors for years and left paintings in the units we rented. I also fished on one of the ‘head boats’ that was Captained by a nice fellow named Chan(dler). A fun day on the water. Always caught fish.
My wife didn’t like the Keys, not enough shopping and big city stuff.
We now rent a month in Aruba and do an ‘all inclusive’ in Cancun.
The drive down became a chore since I have reached the ripe old age of 80. Enjoy your time in Buttonwood.
Wishing you peace and good health,
Jim
This February in Punta Cana
The first acquaintance I had with the active artistic mode on Key Largo was through my communications with Mrs. C who rejoices in her weekly art classes at the Key Largo public library located in the Tradewinds Shopping Plaza (where Publix is). She is the author of the featured image of this entry. As well below is another of hers completed as recently as today.
I regret that I haven’t been able to locate a piano on the premises. Normally speaking subtropical weather would not be conducive to keeping a piano in tune but an air conditioned room would certainly help. In any event for whatever reason a piano seems not to form a part of the local equipment. I suspect the prospect of routine maintenance works against its popularity. It is unfortunate in my opinion as I further imagine there are a number of talented musicians in the neighbourhood. In the meantime I conduct my limited artistic expression through photography and writing.