Meet Steve King: Papio Ambassador & Kinetic Sculpture Float Artist
Craftsman and inventor Steve King is one of several artists selected to be a “Papio Ambassador” for the Second Annual Key West Art & Historical Society Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade, a mobile sculpture and art-bike processional that will roll through downtown Key West on Saturday, May 6, powered by the creativity and whimsy of artists and assemblers of all ages. King has been awarded $500 to help him with his creation, an amount divvied from more than $8,000 in support funds available for select artists and schools who have applied.
“It’s fun to wake up one morning with an inkling of an idea and to see that transform into a living, moving sculpture that can inspire others,” says the craftsman, designer, and boat builder with projects that have landed him on national television.
While the 30-year Key Wester prefers to keep the details of his 2017 creation under wraps until parade day, he says it will be inspired by years of boat-building design, original concepts from unique light and clock sculptures and cameras, and a certain level of performance art King has become known for.
“I love the no-rules, creative energy that Papio embodies,” he says.
Key West Art & Historical Society has set aside funds for artists to explore their own creative inklings. Available funds come in the form of ten $500 sponsorships for artists and six $400 scholarships for schools, made possible by ‘Papio Pals’ Historic Tours of America and Margaritaville Resort and Marina. Those interested in applying for support funds can visit papiokineticparade.com/sponsorships or contact Adele Williams at 305.295.6616 x 115 for more information. Businesses interested in becoming a Papio Pal by sponsoring individual artists, artist teams and/or school groups, contact Michael Gieda at 305-295-6616 x 103.
The Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade was created in honor of the Florida Keys rebel folk artist Stanely Papio and is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of the Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida. Additional support provided by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, Historic Tours of America, Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina and Southernmost Beach Café. Your Museums. Your Community. It takes an Island.