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# A Day in the Life: Exploring the Vibrant and Eclectic World of Key West

Key West, Florida—a small island packed with rich history, creative souls, and a unique blend of cultures—serves as the backdrop for a lively tapestry of stories, art, and community. Through a candid and colorful documentary-style conversation, we are transported into the eclectic life of David Wade, a seasoned artist and local character, whose decades-long immersion in this island paradise reveals a mosaic of its diverse identities.

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## An Artist's Sanctuary and a Slice of Local Life

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Walking into David Wade’s main house, one is immediately struck by its warm, lived-in charm. The studio, core to his creative process, rotates among friends like Chuck and Heidi—each with their own space but united by a shared love of the sea and art. David has called Key West home for over 55 years, and his affection for the place bleeds into every corner of his life.

The kitchen, untouched for four decades, features a modest two-burner stove and a refrigerator on the verge of needing an update—an emblem of a simple life rooted in tradition rather than luxury. His community is not a formal commune, but rather a close-knit group of sailors and artists whose camaraderie is woven through shared boats, art projects, and storytelling.

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## Art, Finds, and the Spirit of Reuse

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David’s artistic journey is intertwined with his resourcefulness. Among his paintings is a striking piece commissioned by country singer Kenny Chesney—an acknowledgment of Wade’s talent. His work also encompasses street finds—an old saxophone, fiberglass fixtures fixed to look like bronze, and a mailbox film from the mid-20th century repurposed into art.

His philosophy is evident: if it’s broken or abandoned on the street, it can be transformed into something beautiful. This ethos underpins his art and his approach to life on the island.

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## The Quirky and the Authentic: The Chicken Preserve

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A notable feature of David’s world is the “Chicken Preserve”—a humorous, self-made moniker for his quirky mode of transportation. His makeshift bike, equipped with a license plate cover and bullet holes he jokingly claims are fake, exemplifies his inventive spirit. Key West’s proximity to the mainland means that even local transportation is an artful expression, blurring practicality with personality.

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## Into the Heart of Downtown Key West

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Cruising down quiet streets, David’s narrative reveals the intimate layers of Key West’s history and culture. The island’s fame as a haven for the “real people” persists, despite the growing influence of tourism and gentrification. Locals reminisce about old haunts like Howie's Bar, where Jimmy Buffett once played for a mere $30, and Blue Heaven, a renowned restaurant that has attracted many celebrities over the years.

The city’s narrative is captured in its old architecture, the banyan trees, and the iconic mile zero sign—marking the start of US Route 1 stretching all the way up the eastern coast. Here, the island’s identity is a blend of Caribbean influence, historic wealth, and resilient community spirit.

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## The Creative and Cultural Fabric

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The story dives into the community of artists, musicians, and sailors that make Key West special. Wade’s studio apartments hold a lively collective of ten artists, each with their own creative pursuits—from painting and music to candles and crafts—living side by side in historically significant buildings.

Artists like David, who never retired from painting but instead continually evolves his craft, show that life here is about perpetual creativity. His mantra echoes: **"Musicians and artists don't retire."** He emphasizes the importance of play, learning instruments, and nurturing community. His own projects include a self-published book—"Fifty Years of David Wade"—a testament to his prolific output.

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## The Island’s Complexities and Challenges

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Beyond its artistic allure, Key West grapples with real issues. The conversation touches on skyrocketing property taxes—some properties facing bills up to $90,000—and the housing crisis driven by short-term vacation rentals and gentrification. Affordable housing is scarce, pushing many workers and families to commute from less expensive neighboring islands.

Bordering on a small, two-by-four-mile landmass, the island’s limited space constrains growth. Reluctance from government agencies to permit new construction aims to preserve evacuation routes and community integrity, but it also exacerbates housing scarcity.

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## A Diverse and Dynamic Population

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Key West’s demographic tapestry is woven with Navy personnel, Haitian refugees, Cubans, Eastern Europeans, and expatriates from Germany and the Middle East. The island serves as a welcoming melting pot: recent arrivals from Saudi Arabia, who recount living on US bases during 9/11 and appreciating the greater personal freedoms here, coexist with longtime residents.

The Haitian and Cuban communities play vital roles in local life—serving as the backbone of service industries, contributing rich cultural traditions like cigar-making, and adding vibrant flavors to the island’s identity.

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## Water, Nature, and the Caribbean Vibe

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A recurring motif is the island’s breathtaking waters—sandbars, turquoise seas, and endless opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and diving. Wade and his friends revel in the natural beauty, often exploring hidden spots beyond the hustle of Duval Street.

Key West’s proximity to Cuba—approximately 90 miles—positioned as a symbolic and literal gateway to the Caribbean, lends the island its distinctive flavor. The conversations reflect a deep respect for the ocean and its bounty, making water activities an integral aspect of island life.

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## The Spirit of Community and Celebration

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Even amidst challenges, the community’s resilience shines through. Regular events like open mic nights and puppet shows at local venues foster unity. Support for local artisans and musicians underscores the island’s creative heartbeat.

Key West hosts celebrations of its history and culture—such as fundraisers, art exhibits, and themed parties—distilling the island’s lively essence: a place where everyone—residents and visitors alike—can find a little piece of themselves.

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## Final Reflections: An Island of Many Identities

Key West’s story is one of contrasts: tradition and change, wealth and poverty, serenity and chaos. Its eclectic identities—artists, sailors, fishermen, refugees, billionaires—form a complex mosaic that is both fragile and resilient.

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As David Wade sums up, “The world is full of hatred. Wouldn’t it be nice instead of dropping bombs, we could drop instruments—accordions, guitars—and let the kids find them and start playing music.”

This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of Key West—a place that values community, creativity, and the enduring appeal of its island magic. Whether you’re a sailor, artist, or traveler, this island invites you to become part of its ongoing story, one song at a time.

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