I'm supposed to be working on cottage paintings for my upcoming "Cottage Industry" show at The Studios of Key West in February, but.............I'm still adding new paintings to my mermaid series.  

Yes, I do have some cottage paintings in the works, so I'm not totally falling behind :))

Just down the street from 5 Brothers Sandwich Shop and Grocery, on Southard Street in old town, is a cute little cottage with a sawtooth roof and a starfish swag. I've made a few revisions, such as painting it yellow and giving it a picket fence.  (What good is your artistic licence if you don't use it?) The roosters, hens and peeps are for real.

Next time you go to 5 Brothers, walk a couple houses toward Duval Street, and you'll see the cottage.  I love, love, love their cafe con leche, and they make amazing french fries!

Key West Corner, 16" x 20", acrylic on canvas, ©2018   $525
CLICK HERE to purchase

It's crazy all the changes Mango Birds went through......in the beginning I had no idea there'd even be birds in it. (and now I kinda want to put birds in everything!

Mango Birds   30x30" acrylic on gallery wrap canvas

On display at The Studios of Key West, through July 2018, as part of their annual members' show called Mango Madness.

If you haven't already noticed, my annual summer sale has started and this year I'm including free shipping!  CLICK HERE TO SEE THE SALE.

My favorite Christmas song is "Nothing but a child", written and sung by Steve Earle.
My wish for you this holiday is that you too find a miracle.
​hugs, Maggie
​P.S. lyrics below

Nothing But A Child
Steve Earle
Once upon a time, in a far off land
Wise men saw a sign and set out cross the sand
Songs of praise to sing, they travelled day and night,
 Precious gifts to bring, guided by the light
They chased a brand new star, ever towards the west
Across the mountains far, but when it came to rest
They scarce believed their eyes, they'd come so many miles
And this miracle they prized was nothing but a child

Nothing but a child could wash those tears away
Or guide a weary world into the light of day
And nothing but a child could help erase those miles
So once again we all can be children for awhile

Now all around the world, in every little town
Everyday is heard a precious little sound
And every mother kind and every father proud
Looks down in awe to find another chance allowed

Nothing but a child could wash those tears away
Or guide a weary world into the light of day
And nothing but a child could help erase those miles
So once again we all can be children for awhile

Nothing but a child

Written by Steve Earle • Copyright © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc, Universal Music Publishing Group

​Free Workshop
​Jumpstart your art Sales
​Monday, December 18, 6-8pm
in my studio
​Maggie Ruley  - Island Inspirations
​933b Fleming Street, Key West, Fl  33040


Want to sell your artwork, but not sure how to begin? 
Sign up for this free workshop to learn the simple tools and strategies that will get you started.
Sign up by text: (305) 304-1013
Sign up by email: maggie.ruleykw@yahoo.com

Is this for you?  Read more.......

?Does this sound like you? 
You're creative. 
You've worked hard at improving your art skills.
You're getting positive feedback from your fellow artists, your instructors and friends.  
You're wondering what to do with all your lovely pieces.

If you said "yes, that's me" to these, you're ready.

Two reasons why I'd  like to help you make at happen.

1.  When you sell your artwork that creates enthusiasm. Enthusiasm leads to more creative work, which leads to becoming a better artist, and that leads to more sales and so-on and so-on.  It's a wonderful upward spiraling thing.

2.  I see the need for this kind of a "starter class". When you get the basics in place you have a good foundation you can build on. Having a good foundation gives you confidence.

If that's what you want and are ready to get started, please sign up for this mini workshop. 
Here's what you'll learn.

• The tools you need
• Get-going strategies 
• The *I'm-an-artist* mindset 

As a bonus, we'll finish with a Q & A session. If you have questions, write them down and bring them with you.