Key West Inspired Holiday Home Decor

 

🎄 It’s the Most Wonderful Time for New Holiday Tea Towels!

I’ve added something festive and colorful to the studio — Christmas tea towels! These new designs bring cheerful holiday spirit to your kitchen or make easy, thoughtful gifts for just about anyone on your list.

They’re perfect for:

• Hostess or housewarming gifts

• Co-workers, teachers, and neighbors

• Tucking into a gift basket or pairing with a bottle of wine

• Adding a splash of merry color to your own kitchen

Each towel features my watercolor-style artwork in bright, tropical holiday hues — a perfect match for a Key West Christmas.

✨ Available now in the studio or ORDER ONLINE HERE

Bring home a little extra holiday joy — or treat someone special to a gift that’s both useful and beautiful!

Add a splash of Key West color to your home this holiday season!

About the Artist
Maggie Ruley is a studio artist living in Key West, Florida. Her colorful, island-inspired acrylic paintings celebrate the charm, light, and character of Key West life. Maggie’s work is collected worldwide and can be found in island homes near and far.

She has been featured in The Key West Citizen, New York Daily News, and other publications.

Visit her studio and gallery, Maggie Ruley ~ Island Inspirations, at 933b Fleming Street in the Historic Seaport area of Old Town Key West.
www.maggieruley.com

The Magic of Blue, Green, and White in Art and Design

 

Nature’s Palette: Blue Sky, Green Leaves, and the White Moon — Inspiration for Calm, Coastal Color Combinations

There’s something timeless about a painting built around shades of blue, green, and white. Maybe it’s because those colors remind us of the world outside — the sky, the sea, and the lushness of plants in sunlight. Together they create a calm, natural balance that instantly makes any space feel more peaceful.

In art, this color trio works beautifully. Blue and green sit next to each other on the color wheel, which means they naturally harmonize. Add touches of white, and the whole palette feels airy and light — perfect for coastal scenes, landscapes, or any painting that aims to bring a sense of openness and calm.

That’s also why people are drawn to these colors for their homes and offices. Blue promotes focus and calm; green symbolizes growth and renewal; white brings clarity and brightness. When used together in artwork or interior design, they evoke freshness and serenity — a gentle reminder to slow down and breathe.

If you’re a painter, spending a little time learning how to mix a variety of greens is well worth it. Greens can shift dramatically depending on what you mix them with — a touch of yellow for tropical vibrancy, a bit of blue for cool depth, or even a touch of red to quiet things down. (I think I may have written a post about mixing greens before — I’ll link it here if I find it!)

Blue, green, and white — three simple colors that connect us back to nature and make any room feel like a breath of fresh air.

All for now, wishing you a calm and lovely day, Maggie

To read other recent posts scroll to the bottom and click on older posts on the far right. 

Key West Sunset in the Rearview – Mile Marker 13 on A1A

A little glimpse of beauty, worth slowing down for 😎 

When you live “up the Keys,” the mile markers become part of your everyday vocabulary. I live on Lower Sugarloaf Key at MM 17, and this photo was taken just a few miles down the road at MM 13, around 5:30-ish on November 2, 2025.

We had just turned the clocks back, so the sunset arrived earlier — but it was worth slowing down to enjoy. I caught it glowing in my side-view mirror, a fiery reflection of the day ending behind me as I headed home.

Sometimes a quick snapshot like this becomes the start of a new painting — a reference for color, mood, and that fleeting Keys magic that’s impossible to resist.

Sunset on A1A | mm 13

Wishing you all beautiful sunsets 🌅, Maggie

Exploring Texture and Color with Acrylic Palette Knife Painting

 Why I’m Painting More with Palette Knives

 (and Loving the Challenge)

Lately, I’ve noticed a clear trend among my collectors and visitors — they’re drawn to my palette knife paintings. The texture, energy, and movement really seem to capture people’s attention, so I’ve been painting more with my knives.

It’s a fun challenge, especially as an acrylic painter, since acrylics dry so fast that I have to work quickly and decisively. In a way, it feels like I’m back to being a student again — learning, experimenting, and rediscovering the joy (and sometimes frustration) of being a painter. 🧑🏻‍🎨 

Here’s a photo of me with one of my recent pieces, a 36” x 24” acrylic on canvas inspired by the clouds I saw on my way home one evening. 

Thinking About Trying Palette Knife Painting?

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

• 🎨 Be prepared to use a lot of paint. You’ll need generous amounts of color — especially white — to get that thick, textured look.

• 🖼 It’s actually easier to paint larger. Palette knife strokes need room to move and breathe.

• 🧽 It’s messy (in the best way). Keep plenty of paper towels or rags nearby.

• 🪶 Use sturdy canvases. These paintings are heavier than brush paintings, so make sure your canvas has strong stretcher bars.

Palette knife painting is bold, spontaneous, and full of energy — just the way I like it.

All for now dear friends, Maggie

A Gift from a very special friend.

Heart Life Music

 My friend Kenny Chesney surprised me with a pre-release copy of his new book Heart. Life. Music. 💙

No one loves the islands, Key West, or the spirit of Jimmy Buffett more than Kenny — and it shines through every page.
Feeling extra lucky to get an early peek at this one. 🌴📖

Thanks my friend, 😘😘😘

New! Key West Tea & Cocktail Towels - Island Style for your Kitchen and Bar

 

New! Key West Tea & Cocktail Towels

Brighten Your Kitchen with Island Charm

I’ve added something new to my shop — Key West–themed tea towels and cocktail towels! Each one is colorful, 100% cotton, and designed to bring a touch of island life into your kitchen or bar.

The tea towels are full-sized — perfect for hanging by the stove, drying dishes, or gifting to your favorite host. The cocktail towels (also called bar towels) are smaller, with full-coverage designs and a handy hanging loop. They’re ideal for entertaining or keeping close to your favorite mixer.

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Perfect for Gifts & Coastal Homes

Each design celebrates the spirit of Key West — cheerful, relaxed, and a little bit tropical.
They make thoughtful gifts for:

• Hosts and hostesses

• Friends who love coastal décor

• Office or Secret Santa exchanges

• Stocking stuffers or small thank-you gifts

• Mail carriers, dog walkers, and neighbors

Pair one with a bottle of wine for an extra-special hostess gift — or treat yourself to a new favorite kitchen accent.

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Shop the Collection

See all the designs HERE

These towels are available now, both in the studio and online.

Studio Address: Maggie Ruley-Island Inspirations, 933 Fleming Street, Key West

I hope these Key West home decor items make finding cheerful, thoughtful gifts a little easier for you this holiday season,

Cheers🥂🍸🍾,

Maggie 

About the Artist
Maggie Ruley is a studio artist living in Key West, Florida. Her colorful, island-inspired acrylic paintings celebrate the charm, light, and character of Key West life. Maggie’s work is collected worldwide and can be found in island homes near and far.

She has been featured in The Key West Citizen, New York Daily News, and other publications.

Visit her studio and gallery, Maggie Ruley ~ Island Inspirations, at 933b Fleming Street in the Historic Seaport area of Old Town Key West.
www.maggieruley.com

November Painting Classes – Two Fun Ways to Get Creative

 It’s class time again in the studio! November brings two special sessions — one lighthearted, one heartfelt — both designed for fun, creativity, and good company.

Looking for a creative way to relax before the holidays?

Join one of my November Key West painting classes and enjoy a few carefree hours of color, laughter, and inspiration. These workshops are perfect for anyone wanting to do something fun during a stressful season, create a handmade gift for someone special, or learn from an experienced Key West artist and teacher.

Each class includes all materials — brushes, paints, and canvas — so there’s no extra expense or shopping needed. Just show up, get creative, and leave with a painting you’ll be proud to display or give as a gift.

🧝‍♀️ Tropical Holiday Gnome – Tuesday, November 11, 1:30–4 PM
We’ll paint a sunny little gnome ready for a Key West Christmas. All materials included — just bring your holiday spirit! $55 per person.

🐾 Paint Your Pet Portrait – Saturday, November 15, 1–4:30 PM
Work from your own pet photo on a pre-traced canvas. I’ll guide you through the steps so you leave with a finished portrait that truly captures your furry friend. $95 per person.

Both classes will be held in my Key West studio, and space is limited. You can see full details and sign up on my website:
👉  SIGN UP TODAY 

Come paint, sip, and celebrate the season with me — it’s the perfect way to treat yourself before the holidays begin.

Thanks for reading — I hope to paint with you soon in the studio or see you around sunny Key West!

Have questions or want to join the next class? Message me on Instagram @maggieruley or through my website

Happy Holidays, Maggie

About the Artist
Maggie Ruley is a studio artist living in Key West, Florida. Her colorful, island-inspired acrylic paintings celebrate the charm, light, and character of Key West life. Maggie’s work is collected worldwide and can be found in island homes near and far.

She has been featured in The Key West Citizen, New York Daily News, and other publications.

Visit her studio and gallery, Maggie Ruley ~ Island Inspirations, at 933b Fleming Street in the Historic Seaport area of Old Town Key West.
www.maggieruley.com

Happy Valentines Day!

How the heck did it get to be February?

To the Moon and Back, Maggie Ruley
 12"x12" acrylic on canvas panel $150.00

Love Without End Amen, Maggie Ruley
12" x' 12" acrylic on canvas panel $150.00

Bursting, Maggie Ruley
12" x 12" acrylic on canvas panel $150.00

Hug Kiss Hug, Maggie Ruley
12" x 12" acrylic on canvas panel $150.00

Heartfelt, Maggie Ruley
12" x 12" acrylic on canvas panel SOLD

,

I wish you all a wonderful Valentines Day ! XXO Maggie

For purchase info call (305) 304-1013

I just love "before and afters", don't you?

I'm always sucked in by those "before and after" articles in magazines like Coastal Living. 

There's just something I love about the transformation process.

Maybe it's because that's what happens when I paint.  The canvas goes through a transformation. From nothing but white to whatever I want. "iheartmyjob

Lately I've been experimenting with what I call "complicated backgrounds".  

Sometimes they're super complicated, like this series. 

And sometimes they're just a little wild and crazy.  

I'm getting ready-to-get-ready to start a new series of Key West cottage paintings, for a show I have coming up in February. So, I've been fooling a round with the wild and crazy concept to see if I can use it to get some interesting (not your usual ho-hum) cottages. 

I've still got to tweak it some, but there are some fun aspects to painting this way.

Here's the before

What I love about this start is it's feeling of movement

And here's the after

I ended up covering up more of the original layer than I would have liked. But that's the joy of painting. Each painting is a lesson!
Corner Cottage with Cat

This painting is 16" x 20", so it's too small for the show, but like I said, I'm getting ready to get ready.

And it's always good to work out the problems on a small scale before you pull out the big canvases. #learnedthehardway

Have a great day,

hugs

Maggie

By the way? Are you getting my updates by email?
If not sign up HERE.

Have you signed up for my free class? Click the link below.

Pricing your art: a free online mini training.

Maggie Ruley is a studio artist living in Key West, Florida. Her studio and gallery, Island Inspirations, showcases her artwork and is a creative learning center for her students.

When she's not in the studio, you can find her volunteering with local non-profit arts organizations, teaching classes and workshops, or at the beach.

Her colorful paintings and tropical pottery are collected world wide and can be found in many island homes. She has been featured in the Key West Citizen, the New York Daily News, and other publications.

Her handmade ceramic flip flops have been sold in gift shops all along the east coast and in California and Hawaii.

Her studio and gallery is located in the Historic Seaport area of Old Town Key West.

Maggie Ruley~Island Inspirations

933b Fleming St.

Key West Florida 33042

www.maggieruley.com

Wild Papaya

Papayas are growing in wild abundance in the Florida Keys

And they are PERFECT for painting!

About 4 months after Hurricane Irma, papaya plants started to spring up everywhere in my neighborhood as well as others.

They are a super interesting plant. There's a male plant and a female plant.  The male plant has the flowers and the female plant has the fruit. And there are different varieties growing.

In my yard I have lots of male plants and only two female plants. And what's interesting is the two females have different kinds of papayas on them. One has small pear shaped fruit and the other more oblong fruit.

I've been admiring them for months and finally got around to painting them, (after taking tons of photos)

This is a male plant. The flowers are starburst clusters on long stems.

However, I did not paint them from the photos. I took the leaves, the fruit and the flowers into my studio and painted directly from my observation of them.

I had so much fun painting one, that I did a second one.

Each painting started on one of my "complicated backgrounds"  where I put thin layers of multiple colors all over the canvas.

Here's the set up for the first one.

You can see what I mean about a complicated background painting.

I think it's beautiful and amazing that the interior is in the shape of a star.

Detail: you can see where I'm using paint lines to sketch in the fruit.

Detail: I'm starting to add some greens to the leaves.

Here are the finished paintings

Wild Papayas no.1

Wild Papayas no.1
 30" x 24", acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, 2018
$975.00

Wild Papayas no.2

Wild Papayas no.2
24' x 18", acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, 2018
$695.00 

I'm not sure I'm finished with this series yet.  I think I want to paint one with a red background.  The challenge for that would be to not make it look too Christmas-y, with the green leaves.  I like a challenge

By the way? Are you getting my updates by email?
If not sign up HERE.
All for now, have a lovely day.

Have you signed up for my free class? Click the link below.

Pricing your art: a free online mini training.

Maggie Ruley is a studio artist living in Key West, Florida. Her studio and gallery, Island Inspirations, showcases her artwork and is a creative learning center for her students.

When she's not in the studio, you can find her volunteering with local non-profit arts organizations, teaching classes and workshops, or at the beach.

Her colorful paintings and tropical pottery are collected world wide and can be found in many island homes. She has been featured in the Key West Citizen, the New York Daily News , and other publications.

Her handmade ceramic flip flops have been sold in gift shops all along the east coast and in California and Hawaii.

Her studio and gallery is located in the Historic Seaport area of Old Town Key West.

Maggie Ruley~Island Inspirations

933b Fleming St.

Key West Florida 33042

www.maggieruley.com