Meet the Artist and Become Part of the Art at Fantasy Fest 2026 Poster Signing Party

Fantasy Fest fans heading to Key West this October have a rare opportunity to meet the talent behind this year's official poster art — and step directly into his creative world. Miami-based artist and illustrator Brian Butler, winner of the 2026 Fantasy Fest poster design contest, will appear at the Official Fantasy Fest Poster Signing Party on Tuesday, October 20, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Lobby Tropicado at the historic La Concha Hotel, 430 Duval St., Key West.

Presented by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts, the event invites guests to meet Butler, have their official 2026 Fantasy Fest posters signed, enjoy free wine sampling courtesy of Bogle Wines, and shop for 2026 Fantasy Fest T-shirts and festival swag. Butler will also be live painting during the event, creating a classic "photo stand-in" inspired by this year's theme. A selfie station presented by KeyHaw and Inflate Key West will offer another opportunity to capture the moment.

A prolific illustrator with deep roots in the music world, Butler is known for sketchbook-style illustrations documenting major festivals and concerts around the globe. His creative repertoire includes large-scale murals, interactive art events, and work for clients including Sony Music, Vans, SXSW, and the Miami Heat.

Butler's winning poster design — which earned him a $1,000 prize — is packed with fanciful references to this year's theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." The illustration weaves together nods to Prince, Madonna, Wicked, Kinky Boots, Hairspray, Fiddler on the Roof, Cats, Kiss, David Bowie, The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, and The Rolling Stones. Look closely and you'll also find Key West-specific surprises: Robert the Doll, a cup of Coffee Butler, a lost shaker of salt, and the famously mysterious giant sponge man.

Fantasy Fest 2026 — Key West's annual multi-day costuming extravaganza — runs October 16–25. Presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We've Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events and the downloadable mobile app, visit fantasyfest.com.

For more upcoming events across South Florida, visit the Premier Guide Miami Events Calendar.