Key West Misfits

Suzie dePoo

Suize dePoo was an eclectic artist known for her romantic style and unique use of materials. She was also the lead designer at Key West Hand Print Fabrics and worked closely with Lilly Pulitzer. Her colorful, island inspired prints were commissioned by Pulitzer and helped set the vibe for the Lilly Pulitzer brand we know and love today.

In the 1950s she helped establish the Key West Arts Center and in the 1960s and ’70s started several galleries for new artists. “Art,” said Suzie, “is not static, it must be created and then let go, so more art can come.”

“Work is your salvation,” said Suzie in her late 80s and still rising to daylight savings time. “It really keeps you going. I like hard work, any kind of work. Any physical labor charges up your batteries. I haven’t got the energy I used to, you know. But, I’m lucky to have lived so long and have something I enjoy doing. Age shouldn’t be a dirty word. Don’t waste your time worrying about it.”

“Everyone in town knew D**k Bruce. His father had been a great pal of Ernest Hemingway’s, so McGuane and other writers sought him out for stories of his childhood and what Uncle Ernest was like in private life.

Bruce recalled that when he was assigned in high school to write a paper on the “true meaning” of The Old Man and the Sea, he went home and asked a visiting house guest for help.

“Well, D**k,” Hemingway began. “I took the Pilar out to go fishing. And I knew this man in Cuba who went fishing and lost his big catch to the sharks. That’s what it’s about.”

Bruce delivered his report to his teacher, who told him he obviously knew nothing about Hemingway and his work.” -William Mckeen