Imagine walking into a Monet landscape, or a Renoir scene, or Van Gogh's bedroom; internationally celebrated Keys sculptor J. Seward Johnson allows just that in his popular "Beyond the Frame: Impressionism Revisited" exhibition at the Custom House from Jan. 18 - March 4, 2007.

Patrons are able to walk through the sculptures that represent some of the most well known Impressionists' paintings. Johnson invites guests to walk into and around the sculptures, something usually not acceptable in museums. His creations are rich in textural detailing. The finely woven bronze threads of the women's veil, her gently glove hands are signatures of Johnson's art.

Johnson is noticeably bothered that his planned donation of six life-size sculptures to compliment the city's Southernmost Point was turned down by the Key West City Commission. "Art in Public Places and I thought this would be a real benefit to the community," Johnson said. "I am disappointed because the pieces are already cast and I am still painting them." Disappointment hasn't stopped the Keys resident from thinking of the future. "I would love to see a sculpture garden on the island," he said. "This 3-D art would allow visitors to walk into a painting and, believe me, when a person does that they get a whole new feeling about art; they get to see it like the painter did."

We urge you to go along to the Custom House in Key West, this really is an exhibition not to be missed. As Americans would say

AWESOME.