Art, yoga & the sea – nurturing the playful & the sacred – October 19-23, 2011
A series of full and half-day classes, each with a focus on some playful, sacred, and at times practical, aspect of self-expression be it writing, mixed-media, photography, yoga, altar creation or well, dress-up!
Where will the retreat be held? Guests will be staying in large, beautiful cottages on the beach in Nags Head on North Carolina’s Outer Banks – a string of barrier islands gracefully sweeping out into the Atlantic Ocean. Meals, classes and rooms will all be in the same places.
When is the retreat? October 19-23, 2011 The retreat will be held Wednesday afternoon October 19 with registration and runs through breakfast Sunday morning October 23. There are two full days of classes on Thursday and Friday and on Saturday the classes are half-days – you can choose either a morning or afternoon class and the rest of the day will be for exploring, visiting, playing or perhaps sleeping in. The final dinner together will be on Saturday evening.
What is the schedule? {subject to shifting with the tides a bit…}
WEDNESDAY
REGISTRATION beginning at 3p
WELCOME Nibbles at 6p, Dinner at 7p
opening CEREMONY 8p
SATURDAY
Breakfast 7:30 – 9:00
CLASSES 10a -1p or FREE EXPLORATION
Lunch 1p*optional – you are welcome to eat at one of the many fun local places, just let me know ahead of time for planning purposes, please.
Afternoon CLASS: 2:30-5:30 or FREE EXPLORATION
Dinner at 7p
The Outer Banks is best known for gorgeous beaches and great seafood, but there is also a thriving OBX art community. There are a wide variety of local artists, an endless supply of gorgeous scenery and natural inspiration, and a number of art galleries.
One gallery in particular, the Seaside Art Gallery, is well known for its wide variety of pieces and an extensive collection of local and master artists. Seaside Art Gallery exhibits the work of local and contemporary artists, as well as a wonderful selection of art by such masters as Picasso, Chagall, Whistler, Icart, Renoir and many others. Sculpture, porcelain and art glass by Hummel, Staffordshire, Tiffany and others are represented. As well as a fine selection of estate jewelry. Since the early 1980′s, a major feature of Seaside Art Gallery has been their large collection of original animation art by such studios as Disney, Warner Bros., Hanna-Barbera, United Features Ltd., and other animation studios.
In addition to a large collection of beautiful art, Seaside Art Gallery has a large affinity for animals, and in partnership with the Outer Banks SPCA, they are bringing Animals in Art to the OBX.
Artists have captured the importance of animals in our lives ever since they have been painting on cave walls. This show will feature our wildlife and artists and those that celebrate the animals we share our lives with.
The Outer Banks SPCA, in collaboration with Seaside Gallery’s 50th Anniversary, is launching an exciting new February event for local residents and visitors – Animals in Art. On display at Seaside Gallery are animal sketches, paintings, and etchings, as well as figurines, jewelry, cards and many other items. Portraits of your favorite pet can also be arranged through the Gallery.
During the month of February, Seaside Art Gallery will donate a portion of all sales of animal-related art to the Outer Banks SPCA to help keep animals in our community healthy and safe. Founded in 1988 by concerned local citizens to address community needs for animal control and care, the Outer Banks SPCA is a private nonprofit organization that relies on donations and volunteer efforts to support its programs. The Outer Banks SPCA is hosting an opening reception at the Gallery on February 10th, 5-8 PM. The public and press are invited to join SPCA Board members for this preview event. For more information call Seaside Gallery at 441-5418 or the Outer Banks SPCA at 475-1587.
Valentine’s Day usually focuses on “lovers” more so than “loved ones,” but the Hallmark holiday is really about the celebration of love in all its forms. And what better way to celebrate love than with some mother/daughter fun?!
Renee Landry, an amazing floral and event designer on the Outer Banks, is offering a super fun Mommy & Daughter Valentine’s class. Details below.
As an added bonus, Renee will be a new addition to Club Seaside this year!…a complimentary design class offered to Seaside Vacations guests! Stay tuned for more details coming soon.
There were 146 entries into the art show, and more than 250 people attended the opening night reception. The show will remain open for viewing through February 25th at Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery, 210 E. Driftwood St., Nags Head. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
And the winners are…
Best in Show: Owen Perry Sullivan’s “Resurfaced Vessel”
Excellence Awards
Holly Nettles, “Prime Time,” acrylic
Fay Davis Edwards, “Miss Mamie & the Birthday Nails,” watercolor
Haley Sullivan, “Open Field Vessel,” mixed media metals, peridot, wood
Tracy Bell, “75 Cents per 100 Pounds,” acrylic
Honorable Mention
Glenn Eure, “Seven Faces,” collagraph
Randy Hodges, “Groovy Octopus,” iron
Carol A. Robinson, “Solitude by the Sea,” photography
We’ve mentioned Katy Caroline a couple times on this blog (here & here), and I’d like to congratulate Katy on her continued success. The Outer Banks Voice recently wrote a great article about Katy, and it highlights many of the reasons that Katy is gaining recognition as a great artist…on and off the OBX.
I’ll recap some of Katy’s history, but to start I’d like to mention an intangible that the Outer Banks Voice article doesn’t mention; Katy’s great personality.
As the article mentions, prior to diving into painting head first, Katy spent much of her time working at the Nags Head Animal Hospital. During the time Katy was working there, I was fortunate enough to trick one of Katy’s fellow employees into marrying me. So I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Katy through my wife since her Animal Hospital days, and I can unequivocally say that Katy’s success with painting has as much to do with her natural ability as it does with her exceptional personality.
Katy always has a smile on her face, and her upbeat energy is contagious and lets you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is happy to see you. This personality shows in her paintings through the bright colors and the happy scenes her brush strokes create. Her personality and the personality of her subject seem to come together in a soup of happiness that jumps off the canvas.
Katy Caroline - Putting the Steak on the Grill
Katy’s personality also shines through on the business side of painting. The business side of art can be somewhat draining for the artist, but Katy embraces it with the same enthusiasm she dedicates to her painting. The article mentions Katy’s “Sip and Dip” painting classes, and there’s no question that these classes are so popular not only due to Katy’s great instruction but also because people like to be around Katy. She keeps life simple and fun…just the way art should be.
As a side note, shhhhhh, don’t tell anyone just yet, but Katy is going to join our Club Seaside 2011 lineup of events. The details are still being ironed out, and I’ll leave the focus of this post on Katy, but please keep an eye out for our Club Seaside announcement coming soon.
Now on to some more about Katy’s background. I think Katy’s art speaks for itself, but she has a pretty cool story, so it’s worth taking a quick look in the “way back machine.”
Katy Caroline Gullett was born on June 18th 1981, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
She ended up on the Outer Banks of North Carolina in 1997, where she eventually graduated from high school in 1999.
After graduating, she went out west to Colorado to pursue snowboarding when, after her third winter there, she was diagnosed with Lyme’s Disease and was told to rest for two years.
So, back on the Outer Banks “resting,” she decided to get her associates degree at the local community college.
In an effort to satisfy her art requirements, she took a painting class. Her instructor quickly noticed her talent and began to encourage her to paint on a regular basis.
Along with this encouragement, she earned best in show at the art competition held by the school that semester.
It was in that moment, when she first saw that purple ribbon on her painting, she knew that being a painter could be an attainable dream.
Katy’s life has never been the same. Immediately following that purple ribbon she landed her first commissioned job, and she hasn’t looked back. Since then, she has done many commissioned works from murals, to trompe l’oeils, to illustrations. Last fall she finally got the opportunity to paint what she wants and has been painting to her heart’s content. She has said when she looks around she is like a kid in a candy store; taking in colors and textures, all in new perspectives. Her visual senses have been awakened to a new level that stimulates different thoughts and feelings.
Can you imagine discovering such a great skill in your 20’s…by accident?! Kind of gives us all hope. Maybe you are the next great painter….probably worth signing up for one of Katy’s “Sip and Dip” classes to find out!
Katy’s career is just taking off. And with her natural charm, plus her natural painting ability, the sky is the limit…oh yeah, not to mention her exceptional dedication to her craft.
Congrats Katy! We’re looking forward to seeing a big 2011 for you.
The 33rd Annual Frank Stick Memorial Art Show opening reception will be held on Saturday, Jan. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., and will be located at Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery, 210 E. Driftwood St., Nags Head. The show will remain open for viewing until Feb. 25.
The Frank Stick Memorial Art Show includes a wide variety of local OBX fine art ranging from conceptual to realistic. All original work, featuring sculpture, painting, drawing, fiber, pottery and mixed media, this is the longest running visual art exhibition in Dare County.
Stick gained recognition as an illustrator for magazines such as Collier’s, Saturday Evening Post, Ladies Home Journal and Outdoor America during the early part of the 20th century. He is most known for painting hundreds of hunting and fishing scenes to illustrate outdoor and adventure stories.
In addition to his contribution to the art world, Stick had great vision. After visiting the Outer Banks in the 1920s on a surf-fishing trip, he fell in love with the region and its potential as a tourist destination. As a result, Stick played a large role in establishing the Cape Hatteras National Seashore as America’s first national seashore.
Cash prizes will be awarded for “Best in Show,” “Excellence,” and “Honorable Mention” as chosen by judges based on merit. In addition, a “People’s Choice” award winner will be selected by public ballot during the opening reception.
Way back in October 2009 (seems so long ago now that we’re in 2011!), we ran a post about an art show at Roanoke Island Festival Park that featured Daniel Pullen.
I was reminded of this art show, and Pullen, by a great article The Outer Banks Voice ran about Pullen the other day.
I went to the art show, and I can honestly say that it was some of the most impressive surf art that I have seen. I’m a bit partial because I’m a surfer, but Daniel’s art is very unique. Yeah it’s surf and ocean, but it’s so much more. It’s not the traditional surf and water you expect from surf art.
He is very inventive with his style, his colors are exceptionally bold, and his canvas is always changing; from surfboard to skateboard to street sign to actual canvas. I’m no artist, but Pullen’s work inspired me to pick up a brush and start stroking…well, I bought a brush and thought about stroking. Consider it one of my 2011 resolutions.
Here’s a quick recap of Daniel: Pullen has lived on Hatteras Island for more than 30 years. He is a well-versed, and eclectic artist that is able to bring a very creative style to his photography and painting. His surf photography captures the essesence of the Outer Banks surf experience from the beach and the water, and he uses a variety of unique surfaces for his bold surf paintings.
The Outer Banks Voice article mentions that Daniel’s work may be considered “Urban Surf Art.” It’s tough for me to consider anything related to surf and the Outer Banks as “urban.” For me, surf and the OBX are about as far from “urban” as possible, but I can definitely see an urban flare in Daniel’s art, almost a graffiti-like perspective.
It’s safe to say I dig it!…and I think you will too.
You can view his art at Wood’s Oceanic Arts in Buxton (right across the street from RBC Bank) or his website www.DanielPullenPhotography.com.
Still looking for that perfect holiday gift for the OBX lover in your life? How about some Outer Banks inspired art?
Don’t stress, you don’t need to be on the OBX to get the art, and you don’t have to pay and arm and a leg for an original piece. You can cuddle up on your couch in your Snuggie and order this cool book.
Christaphora Robeers recently published The Quiet Voice of the Outer Banks: A Visual Journey. Inspired by the clouds, sea and beach, Robeers creates large and small works, using oils to create soft, almost translucent landscapes that have a youthful appeal.
If you’re in the Richmond area, you pick up the book in person and take a look Robeers work in one shot. She will be showcasing her Outer Banks-centered paintings at the Red Door Gallery from Dec. 9 to Jan. 18.
I’m not sure how this snuck up on us so quickly, but guess what? It’s the holiday season! Thanksgiving is long gone, and Christmas is fast approaching. See ya later 2010!
Seems like a good time to run through some of the holiday fun that can be found on the Outer Banks.
While the OBX is best known for beaches and summer fun, there’s plenty to offer during the holiday season as well.
We’ll start with a few of my fav’s that tend to fly under the radar.
1. The holiday boat parade in Colington Harbor. This one is definitely under the radar. I think there were a total of 10 people there last year…including the 6 with me, but it’s a blast. There’s something special about watching a sailboat with Christmas lights. Colington is tucked away on the West side of Kill Devil Hills…take a right at the Monument and head straight until you hit the guard gate, welcome to Colington Harbor. I can’t find the date for this year, but you may be able to get more info on this site.
2. Kites with Lights at Jockey’s Ridge, hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites. Darn! I just realized we missed this one. I guess they moved it to Thanksgiving weekend this year. Shoot, but I’m including it here anyway so we can all be reminded to mark our calendars for next year…plus, I like this video. Kites and lights are a great combo! :)
3. Ahhhh…last but definitely not least, my fav; the famed Outer Banks Christmas House. The Paulos family has gone all out with Christmas decorations for years, and they invite young and old to take in the spectacle.
The house/light display was voted number one in America in 2005 on the Today Show, and it’s been featured on HGTV! Who knew?! Local celebs right here on the OBX!
Feel free to park your car and wander around the yard to get the full effect and boost your holiday spirit. A night viewing is optimal to get the full effect of the lights.
The time and effort this family puts into their decorations is astounding.
Here’s their FaceBook page if you want some more info or want share your love of their efforts.
Directions: The house is located in Kill Devil Hills near the Nags Head Woods entrance
Heading South on Rt. 158 into Kill Devil Hills
1. Proceed to light at Ocean Acres Dr. (opposite MacDonald’s)
2. Turn right at Ocean Acres Dr.
3. The road will change from paved to gravel as you go up a hill. Just over the top of the hill you will find the Poulos home.
And for some of the more traditional (and “on the beaten path”) options…
December 3 First Friday
Downtown Manteo Waterfront. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Friday is a fun-filled, family-oriented street festival. The sidewalks pulse with live music, magic, artisans, period-dressed actors, a rock climbing wall and much more.firstfriday-roanokeisland.com
December 3 Santa at the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Come visit with Santa! Free. (252) 475-1750 or roanokeisland.com
December 3 – 4 Town of Manteo Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade
Tree Lighting will be December 3rd at 6 p.m. with Santa visiting with the children afterwards at the Maritime Museum at the Creef Davis Boathouse. The parade will be December 4th at 11 a.m. in downtown Manteo.manteo.govoffice.com
December 4 The Jazz before Christmas
Comfort Inn North Oceanfront, Kill Devil Hills. Mix, mingle and celebrate the holidays with jazz! A Semi-Formal Affair Hosted by Gwendolyn Meekins. Performance by Chante Moore. Live Jazz Band. Catering by Basnight’s Lone Cedar. Heavy hors d’oeuvres. One specialty beverage. Full cash bar. Admission: Advance Purchase – $50, Door – $65. For additional information, call: 252-573-1014 or email: GM.Events@live.com. Ticket and Semi-Formal Attire Required for Admission. Please be responsible, DON’T DRINK & DRIVE! Hotel Rooms are available at a discounted rate. $55.00 plus tax (Regular), $70.00 plus tax (Oceanfront). For hotel reservations, call 252-441-6333 and reference “The Jazz before Christmas”.
December 3 – 31 Holiday Show
Dare County Arts Council Gallery, Manteo. Over 500 works of art to fit every budget, including original paintings, pottery, glass, jewelry, fiber, metal, mixed media and wood. darearts.org
December 4 Manteo Preservation Trust Holiday Tour of Homes
Manteo Preservation Trust Holiday Tour of Homes 2 pm til 7 pm. 10-12 houses/Inns. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased the day of the tour at the Dare County Courthouse (located in downtown Manteo) which is also the first stop on the tour. For more information contact Grizelle Fearing at 252-473-7336.
December 4 RIFP Performance Series Christmas at the Park with Elizabeth City State University
7 p.m. Indoor Theatre The performances are free and open to the public. (252) 475-1500, roanokeisland.com December 8 Grand Illumination
Join The Elizabethan Gardens as we kick off ten nights of lights and floral displays at The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, North Carolina. This kick-off event will feature holiday foods and festive drink in the Embellished Hall. Also featured are fire pits on the Great Lawn, where guests can roast marshmallows, drink hot cocoa and be entertained by Dockside Theatre Company and others. On this evening enjoy The Gardens’ Gift Shoppe and plant sales, offering 10% off all merchandise. Friends’ receive an additional 10% off. For the occasion, a special holiday promotion is planned featuring many gifts under $15.00 ~ pre-wrapped and ready to give for Christmas. Garden plant sales will feature winter annuals; ornamental vegetables; forced bulbs; rosemary Christmas Trees; and conifers with bows. Tickets for Illuminations for Non-Members are $14 for adults; $9 for youth (ages 6-17); $6 for children (5 and under). Tickets for Friends’ are $10 for adults; $7 for youth (ages 6-17); $4 for children (5 and under). Groups of 20 or more receive $1.00 off each ticket. Please call The Elizabethan Gardens at 252-473-3234 for more information or visitelizabethangardens.org
December 11 Christmas Past at Island Farm
5 p.m. – 8 p.m. In celebration of Christmas Past at Island Farm, bring your family to learn how Roanoke Island families celebrated Christmas a century and a half ago. Many of the holiday traditions we enjoy today began in the 19th century. A special event at Island Farm on Roanoke Island will bring them to life, 1850s style.
When Adam Etheridge and his family lived on the farm on the island’s North End, there was no electricity. Candles were placed on a freshly cut tree, and their glow made the season bright. The men celebrated by shooting off muskets. Children sang carols and ate cookies while their elders sipped hot mulled wine. It was a time for all families, black and white, to gather with their relatives and to enjoy time away from work. On Dec. 11, Island Farm will host visitors on a guided candlelight tour representing an 1850s Southern Christmas. Gather around a bonfire while muskets are fired to ring in the season. Warm yourself by a crackling fire as you sip a cup of hot wassail, and learn how Christmas traditions began.
The farmhouse will be decorated for the holidays, with flickering wax candles illuminating the Christmas tree. Carolers will sing Yuletide favorites. And costumed interpreters will present vignettes of island life, including the perspective of those who were enslaved.
“Christmas Past at Island Farm is designed to be fun, festive, and educational,” said Jonathan Failor, farm manager. “Why do we decorate trees at Christmas and hang garland on the mantel? How did the tradition of feasting begin? We hope families will make this event a tradition in the years to come.” Tickets are $10 per person and may be purchased on the day of the event. Children aged 5 and under are admitted free. Admission is paid at the door, beginning at 5 pm on the day of the event, Saturday, Dec. 11. The farm will close at 8 pm. Island Farm is open weekdays through Nov. 30 for the 2010 season. The Christmas Past celebration is the last event of the year; look for more special events in the spring. For more information, contact Island Farm, 252-473-6500, email:islandfarm252@gmail.com, or visit the website, theislandfarm.com
When Adam Etheridge and his family lived on the farm on the island’s North End, there was no electricity. Candles were placed on a freshly cut tree, and their glow made the season bright. The men celebrated by shooting off muskets. Children sang carols and ate cookies while their elders sipped hot mulled wine. It was a time for all families, black and white, to gather with their relatives and to enjoy time away from work. On Dec. 11, Island Farm will host visitors on a guided candlelight tour representing an 1850s Southern Christmas. Gather around a bonfire while muskets are fired to ring in the season. Warm yourself by a crackling fire as you sip a cup of hot wassail, and learn how Christmas traditions began.
