The story of Key West, Florida, and the street performers who make their living there,
as told by a perennial tourist turned resident cartoonist.
About
Key West is a national anomaly that offers a unique charm unlike any other city in America. This southernmost point of the continental U.S. is rich with culture and folklore, is known for its reputation as a refuge for LGBTQ+, and has no shortage of unique characters, each with a story worth listening to. The famous Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is where it all comes together, a nightly festival for artists, vendors, and entertainers to capture the attention of tourists from around the world.
Drawn To Key West explores how Mallory Square evolved from the chosen anchorage of pirates to a staple attraction, creative haven for many visual and performing artists, and an integral part to Key West’s magic. The story delves into the art and lifestyle of the street performers, who are the backbone of it all.
The Creators
Theresa Chiechi // Writer & Illustrator
Theresa Chiechi is a New York-born illustrator/cartoonist now living and working in Key West, Florida. She constantly questions how she made all the correct life choices to get her to where she is today. All of her professional
work can be found at theresachiechi.com
Ellen Chao
// Letters
Ellen Chao has been putting pencil to paper since she was two years old and unfortunately does not intend to stop. She likes cryptozoology and making zines by hand. She currently lives in NYC, where she works as an illustrator and graphic designer. You can find her on Instagram at @100crows and see her work at ellenchaoart.com
Vanessa Matte // Colors
Vanessa Matte is a freelance illustrator from Ottawa who loves cats and quesadillas.
She is represented by Astound Us agency. Her illustrations can be found at nessillustration.com
Emily Sneesby // Colors
Emily Sneesby is a 19 year old aspiring graphic novel artist and illustrator from the UK. Her entire life revolves around art and design, and she could talk someone's ear off about anything art or cartoon related! More of her work and shop can be found @sneesbee on Instagram, Tiktok and Etsy.
Celeste Cruz // Colors
Celeste is an illustrator and comic artist living in the Eastern United States. She is passionate about telling stories that center diversity and belonging.
You can find her art on Instagram @caelstyx
The Performers
Buy the Book!
Issue 1
Drawn To Key West
Issue 1 - Mile Marker 0
The first installment of Drawn To Key West. The first 40 pages of the story.
In this first issue, the story focuses on the history of Key West, the development of Mallory Square and the famed "Sunset Celebration," and talks with Jean Morabal (Blue) about his experience as a street performer.
$25
