Mango Madness Celestial Rider (Title approximate)
Painting on canvas • Kathy Corey
Style & Movement
Contemporary Figurative / Magic Realism / Island Naive
Medium & Technique
Oil or acrylic on canvas using expressive, painterly brushwork with soft blending (sfumato-like) in the sky and clouds, and scumbling to create the translucent effect of the lace dress.
Creation Period
Contemporary, circa 2021-2023
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 30 inches; vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A woman in a white lace dress emerges from a sea of clouds, holding two mangoes. She appears to be riding a white horse through the nocturnal sky, framed by a luminous full moon. The composition blends tropical fruit iconography with dreamlike, celestial imagery. The number '11:59' is inscribed in the lower left corner, suggesting a theme of time or a 'midnight' transition.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; appears to be in its original state as created by the contemporary artist.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,800 USD
Auction Estimate
$500 - $1,200 USD
Provenance History
Created specifically for the 'Mango Madness' annual exhibition at The Studios of Key West; currently held by the private owner.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the vibrant Key West art scene. Kathy Corey is a known local figure whose work reflects the 'Island Life' aesthetic and local community traditions like the Mango Madness celebration. This piece specifically showcases her ability to blend mundane local subjects (mangoes) with mythic or surreal narratives.
Notable Features
Features the signature '11:59' mark in the bottom left, likely a specific symbolic reference for the Mango Madness theme. Distinctive use of lighting where the moon acts as a halo for the central figure.
Condition Issues
No visible damage, craquelure, or yellowing. The surface appears stable and well-preserved.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is kept in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light to prevent pigment fading. Professional framing with a spacer is recommended to protect the edges.
Collector Notes
Key West artist Kathy Corey created for Mango Madness annual celebration at the Studios of Key West exhibition