Art
Tap into your artistic side while vacationing on the Outer Banks

For many of us, there’s nothing more inspirational than the perfection behind a setting sun or the way the cattails dance above the dunes to the rhythm of an evening breeze. The profound beauty of nature has the ability to draw us away from our everyday routines and allow us to truly take in and appreciate our surroundings. And when your surroundings are the peaceful beaches of the Outer Banks, an artist is given an entire landscape of possibilities.

The local artists on the Outer Banks channel their appreciation of nature in a wide variety of forms, and the abundance of art galleries and showrooms is a result of that. Tour one gallery after the next to find everything from paintings and photography to wood carvings, ceramic sculptures and glass objects. Many artists draw their inspiration directly from the natural Outer Banks scenery, and there’s no better way to remember your visit than to take home a priceless piece of artwork that will take you back on vacation every time you look at it.

If all this talk about art is getting you in the creative spirit, take a class on jewelry making or head to an arts and crafts shop to try your hand at painting your own piece of Outer Banks heaven. Whether you prefer to sit back and appreciate the works of the locals or give your own creative juices a chance, the undeniable beauty of the Outer Banks is sure to make an art lover out of anyone.



Art Listings

The Bird Store
A must when visiting the Outer Banks. Local carvings, ranging from old working style decoys to decorative shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl. Original art and prints, antique hunting and fishing gear. MP 8.5, 158 Bypass. (252) 480-2591
www.thebirdstore.biz


Gallery 101
Where Art Takes Many Forms. Fine art and crafts, featuring both decorative and functional. Local and regional artists. 101Budleigh Street Downtown Manteo (252) 473-6656.

Greenleaf Gallery
Original paintings, watercolors and fine prints by regional artists. Large collection of functional and sculptural ceramics, glass and wood objects, fiber and jewelry by about 150 American artisans. 1169 Duck Road, Duck NC 27949, (252) 261-2009 Open Mon-Sat. April thru Dec. 31. Follow us in Facebook.
www.outer-banks.com/greenleaf


Melvin's Studio
See artwork in progress by local artist James Melvin in his Studio. James captures the peace and beauty of the Outer Banks. Works are available in all sizes. Call for an appointment (252) 441-5319. Studio located in Nags Head, at MP 11. 124 Wood Hill Dr. www.melvinsstudio.com or melvinsstudio@embarqmail.com.

Sara DeSpain
GIA-Graduate Gemologist and award-winning jewelry designer Sara DeSpain is back in Duck with her exotic collection of unique designer pieces. Exclusive Pandora dealer in Duck. Osprey Landing, Duck (252) 255-0671.