Check out These Fun Art Pieces Made by Local Outer Banks Artists
August 26, 2022
By Chelsea Reed
It’s one thing to be able to express the natural beauty of the Ribbon of Sand through art. But those who are fortunate enough to live here and create art? Now that’s super special! We love how these art pieces help you get to see the world through an Outer Banks local’s eye. Which one is your favorite?
Have you ever seen Nags Head’s Historic District? It’s a special neighborhood where some of the beach cottages are at least 100 years old! This beautiful oil painting is an accurate picture of what they look like today. Suzanne Morris is from Richmond, VA and now lives in Nags Head, NC. She taught herself painting Plein Aire, a technique that primarily involves painting outside.
The contrast between the hummingbird and flowers is stunning in this pastel drawing! It will no doubt freshen up the decor inside a bedroom, living room, or office. Connie Cruise moved to the Outer Banks with her family when she was fifteen. She loves to capture the beauty around her on paper with her art.
This beautiful inlay sculpture features the unique richness and grain patterns of the wood. It’s the perfect nautical addition to a seaside-themed cottage! David Penosky and his family live in Manteo, NC. He is experienced with woodworking and currently enjoys experimenting with a wood sculpture technique called Intarsia.
This tiny acrylic painting is so cute! The bright colors perfectly describe a wonderful day at the beach. If looking at it makes you happy, then the artist accomplished his goal. Doug Brannon lives in the Outer Banks year-round and puts representational themes in his artwork. His former career as a university teacher, therapist, and student counselor aids him in painting with deeper meaning.
Few things in life boast an authentic Eastern Carolina experience like a roadside farmer’s market on your way to the Outer Banks. You’ll likely see Powell’s Roadside Market today, but back then it was Anna Gallop’s. This nostalgic acrylic painting was made by Pat Williams. She lived in Nags Head and loved to paint the unique appeal of the Outer Banks for a long time.
Isn’t this oil painting of dune flowers at the beach so dreamy? The graceful strokes seem to glow with a golden hue. Janet Pierce grew up in the Tidewater Virginia area and lives in Southern Shores, NC. She learned her craft from several excellent artists and enjoys painting perspectives of impressionism from the local area.
Have you ever seen butterflies look so real that they pop out of the art frame? Believe it or not, these amazing butterflies are made from paper! Hailing from Italy, Raffaele Paglia now lives in Manteo, NC. His work is inspired by the Valley of the Butterflies on the Greek Island of Rhodes. He is passionate about protecting nature.
What a fun way to see the beauty of life through the eyes of a local! You can find more artwork by Outer Banks natives at Seaside Art Gallery’s website, as well as artists from around the world. By purchasing a piece you love, you’ll help continue to support their passion.
Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes winning content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina. She might not be building sandcastles or swashbuckling with pirates these days, but the Outer Banks beaches continue to keep her young at heart.
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