Mabel Poblet still finds The Studios of Key West a place of inspiration, going back almost a decade to her time there in 2016 as an artist-in-residence. It was a rewarding experience for the Cuban artist at the monthlong program offered by one of the Florida Keys’ leadings art nonprofits.

The collective experience and access to creatives motivated Poblet, whose work can be seen in public spaces, art festivals, performances, and even the stairwell of The Studios where “High Tide” suspends from the ceiling with hundreds of mirrored fragments that mimic the nearby sea. The work, which spans almost the entire height of the building, was inspired by all those who successfully or unsuccessfully migrated across the ocean.

The Studios’ Executive Director Jed Dodds described selecting this 2022 art by Poblet through a committee that considered over 40 submissions from across the country. The organization was concluding extensive remodeling that left its five-flight stairwell that leads to the rooftop space in need of permanent art.

“The competition was strong, but the decision was easy,” Dodds said. “Mabel's piece just captured so much of what we wanted: the connection to our residency program, the watery reminder of our place at the edge of the Caribbean, and how it immediately transforms the stairwell into someplace magical.”

This season, Poblet returns to the space that inspired her so much with her upcoming exhibit “Borderless” at The Studios’ Sanger Gallery.

The show will bring together a series of works from different stages of the artist’s journey, all united by the thread of human experiences. The art will explore the limits and contradictions of the human condition, as well as the thoughts that arise around them.

“Borderless” will serve as a space for reflection on solidarity, highlighting how despite differences, there is always common ground that links people. The artist is inviting the viewer to contemplate not only the divisions that separate people from each other, but the stories of unity and empathy that arise from shared experiences.

Poblet believes that in addition to art being a means of expression, it is a profound reflection of the context in which that work was created.

“As we know, our country has faced economic and political difficulties over the years that have shaped its course,” Poblet said of Cuba. “In recent months, we have lived through recurring hurricanes and power outages that further complicate the daily lives of Cubans.”

Despite these difficulties, she added, the Cuban people remain a beacon of entrepreneurship and resilience. That they hold an unshakable faith that things will improve, because, even in the midst of turmoil, hope never fades.

“Borderless” is on show at The Studios of Key West from Feb. 6-27. Visit TSKW.org and MabelPobletStudios.com for more information.