Mixing Art and History: Key West's Truman Little White House Brews Up TRU-ly Amazing Events

Just when you thought Key West couldn't get any more picturesque, the Harry S. Truman Little White House throws in a splash of paint and a dash of history to create something truly unique. In a blend that only the island can pull off, two TRU-ly Amazing Art events are set to offer creative spirits a once-in-a-lifetime experience — painting alongside a descendant of Truman himself.

First up, grab your brushes for a plein air painting competition this April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring none other than artist Wesley Daniel, Truman’s great-grandson. Picture this: you, an authentic 1911 roof shingle (yes, you read that right), and the open Key West air as your canvas. Later, winners will be celebrated to the tunes of the Truman-era by the Heart Starters Jazz Band, providing a perfect historical soundtrack to an evening of artistic achievement.

Not to be outdone, August 10 sees the Truman Little White House lawn transform into an artist’s lounge from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. With a “paint and sip” event that pairs fine wine with historical canvases (those 1911 roof shingles are making a comeback), aspiring artists will toast to creativity and history intertwined.

The Harry S. Truman Little White House isn’t just playing host to art; it’s a slice of living history. From 1945 to 1953, it was the winter retreat for Truman, offering a respite and a remote office for the 33rd president. Today, it stands as Florida's only presidential museum, a beacon for history buffs and a tribute to Truman's legacy, offering daily tours and an annual presidential descendants' gathering.

Organized by the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation, these events aim to preserve this historical gem and bring the Truman era to life through a blend of art and history. At $60 a pop for each art program and starting at $100 for a cozy two-top at the Heart Starters performance, it's an opportunity to dive into the past, brush in hand.

For the artists, history enthusiasts, and Truman fans, details and tickets are a click away at trumanlittlewhitehouse.org/foundation/events/. So, why not make a little history of your own this year at the Little White House? After all, it’s not every day you get to paint with a piece of history — or, for that matter, a Truman.