Key West Sunflowers
Original painting on stretched canvas • Kathy Corey (Key West, Florida school)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Impressionism / Tropical Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil or heavy-body acrylic on canvas; executed using impressionistic impasto techniques with palette knife and broad brushwork to create tactile surface texture
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 16 x 20 inches or 18 x 24 inches; Landscape format
Subject Description
Four vibrant floral blooms resembling sunflowers or tropical daisies arranged diagonally across the composition. The style is gestural and energetic, using a warm palette of yellow, orange, and red contrasted against a muted, atmospheric background of grays, teals, and earthy tones. The focus is on light and movement rather than botanical accuracy.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the paint film appears stable with vibrant pigment retention and no visible signs of structural degradation or aging.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $1,200 (Subject to size and regional demand)
Auction Estimate
$250 - $600
Provenance History
Acquired directly from the artist or a regional gallery in Key West, Florida; likely held in a private collection since creation.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the regional Key West art scene, characterized by high-chroma palettes and nature-focused subjects. Kathy Corey is a known figure in the Florida Keys artistic community, and this piece demonstrates the regional aesthetic of 'plein air' inspired studio work.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of heavy impasto on the flower petals creates a 3D effect; expressive, non-representational background that emphasizes the botanical subject.
Condition Issues
No major cracking (craquelure), yellowing, or paint loss visible from the digital image. Tension on the canvas appears consistent.
Conservation Recommendations
Display away from direct sunlight to prevent pigment fading. Professional dusting with a soft brush; maintain in a climate-controlled environment with 45-55% humidity.
Collector Notes
Key West artist, Kathy Corey