Key West Craft Show to Present 100 Artisans Jan. 28-29

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Attendees can explore original works by approximately 100 skilled artisans from throughout the United States during the annual Key West Craft Show Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 28-29.

Now in its 32nd year, the show is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Wares are displayed at open-air booths alongside historic attractions on Key West's lower Whitehead Street and on Caroline Street just beyond the Presidential Gates opening into Truman Annex.

The craft show has grown from a local to a national juried event that typically attracts more than 25,000 visitors over its two-day span. The event has earned recognition from Sunshine Artist magazine as one of the top 100 shows in the United States.

Products on display traditionally range from intriguing artistry in glass to intricately crafted wooden furniture, painted and glazed pottery, fabric creations and delicate one-of-a-kind jewelry. All craft offerings must be original and handmade by the artist.

Many exhibitors return year after year to showcase their wares in Key West's subtropical January temperatures — and, according to event coordinator Lois Songer, many incorporate indigenous materials such as shells, driftwood and beach glass into their work.

Presented by the Key West Art Center, a nonprofit cooperative organization for local artists established in 1960, the craft show is free to attend.

Proceeds from the show help support the center's programs and maintain the historic 301 Front St. building that houses its gallery.

Event information: keywestartcenter.com or call 305-294-1243

Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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