Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest: Top 5 Finalists Announced!

Posted on November 27, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

Drum roll please…

After months of receiving some pretty sweet designs for our 2013 Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest, the time has finally come to choose the top five finalists. After a few days of internal voting by the team here at Seaside Vacations, we are happy to announce we have narrowed down the field to the top five!

We want to thank everyone who took part in our awesome contest. Each year we look forward to receiving fun, creative designs that represent the true spirit of the Outer Banks…and this year was no different. Y’all blew us away! The designs that we received are all AMAZING.

So, without further ado….below are the five finalists! Voting will begin Thursday morning, November 29, and run for 24 hours. The voting will take place on our Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/SeasideVacationsOBX), and after the 24-hour voting period, the design with the most votes will be crowned the King/Queen of the Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest!

And what becomes of the winning design, you ask?

Well, in addition to being crowned the victor, the winning design will be printed on the back of the 2013 Seaside Vacations t-shirt and the winning designer will win an Outer Banks getaway courtesy of Seaside Vacations!

So, pick your favorite….and be sure to vote on our Facebook page this Thursday, November 29.

And now…your Top 5 Finalists for the 2013 Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest:

Top 5 Finalists — 2013 Outer Banks T-Shirt Contest

Please note: The above image is not high quality and was taken only to show the top five finalists. New images for each design will be uploaded to Facebook for voting.

See you Thursday!

Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest Heating Up!

Posted on August 3, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

2013 Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest

Just like the summer weather, the Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest is heating up.

We have some awesome design entries, and we still have about two months to go! The deadline is Sunday, September 30th.

You can find a full rundown of the 2013 Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest here….including submission, regulations, and the sweet prize (hint, come visit us!).

If you love the OBX and have an itch to create, we’d love to see your amazing design!

Check below for the sweet design we just received today. This is a copy of an original painting by Ms. Kristen. So cool! I love the retro feel.

Hope to see your rad art soon!

Outer Banks T-Shirt Design Contest – 8.2.12

Outer Banks Art Village is Ready to Rock!

Posted on May 30, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

In April we excitedly announced that after much effort – thanks Lorri! – the Outer Banks Art Village was officially ago.

After almost two months of hard labor, the OBX Art Village is ready to rock! Check out the before and after pictures! Awesome, right?!

Outer Banks Art Village – Before

Outer Banks Art Village – After

Here’s a quick update from Lorri – the brains, and brawn, behind this labor of love. Thanks for all you do Lori – you are bringing a much-needed art space to the OBX.

This is the Art Village it was a vacant site for 4 1/2 years and was in disrepair – to put it lightly. You can find more photos on facebook…but these photos show the amazing progress.

The Art Village is a Non Profit 501 c3 educational cooperative that works with artists to develop their art into a successful career. As well as working with the local school systems to perpetuate new artists. We have weekly art shows, Galleries, classrooms, free classes and a great outdoor bandstand for musicals, comedians, poetry and more performances. Our Common areas are ready for your picnic, birthday parties or even small intimate weddings.

We are located at 525 US Hwy 64 in Manteo, NC next to the famous Christmas Shop. For information about the Art Village – whether you would like to join us in the galleries selling your work, outside at one of art shows or use our venue for a small party – contact us today….

(252)256-3173
artvillageartistsnc@gmail.com

The Art Village Artists

OBX Tunes: Esther Faith – “Back to Love”

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

OBX Tunes: Esther Faith

In my quest to build a fantastically awesome vacation playlist, I’ve touched on a wide variety of artists in our OBX Tunes posts. But one area that I’ve yet to hit on is the local Outer Banks music scene.

The OBX has a very rad art culture (check out an art lovers “trip planner”). I guess the beach brings out the artist in all of us. As a result, we have some great local musicians, and one of my favorites is Esther Faith – yep, that’s her real name.

Esther has a great Colbie Caillat sound infused with the perfect touch of OBX vibe. The perfect fit for our Outer Banks vacation soundtrack. It’s great to see the Outer Banks all over the below video.

You can find Esther’s music and how to connect with her on her website at: EstherFaith.co m.

But before I cut you loose, as a reminder, you can find the full OBX Tunes playlist…

On the right sidebar of this very blog. Yep, just glance over to the right. There she is in all of her glory. Click play, and let the sweet jams soothe your soul.
On our Tumblr blog - http://outerbanksvacations.tumblr.com/. Look on the right hand side under the search bar, and there she is. Click play, and you’re off and running.

Enjoy Esther’s great OBX vibe and some awesome local OBX Tunes…

Outer Banks Art Village is a Go!

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

Outer Banks Art Village

Waaaay back in February, I shared a guest post from the brains behind a fabulous idea for the OBX; an Art Village.

The goal was to create an “Outer Banks Art Village” – a location where OBX artists of all levels of experience and expertise could come together to share and sell their work, create masterpieces, or just enjoy the laid back vibe of an artist run establishment. Studios, stores, an outdoor courtyard for sculpting, art displays, and picnics, fun activities for the entire family. Basically, an art village – very fitting name.

Outer Banks Art Village - Plans

After a few months of very hard work, I am very happy to report that the Outer Banks Art Village is becoming a reality! And to share the news, Lorri has graciously agreed to offer us another guest post.

Thanks for all of the effort Lorri. The Art Village is a fantastic addition to the OBX art scene.

I’ll release the blog reins to Lorri for the rest of the post. Enjoy…

The Artians are coming! The Art Village is coming to the old Weeping Radish site. The work has begun, the permits approved and the fun is about to begin. The site has sat vacant for the last few years and is in need of some tender loving care. But for the years prior to its closing, it was known as the community gathering place, where people would visit the little shops there and have lunch or dinner and a few beers at the Weeping Radish. When they moved to Currituck, the little shops closed, creating a black hole in Manteo.

Now four years later, local artists – especially those just starting out as artists or ones who may create things but don’t think of themselves as artists – will have the opportunity to join an important cooperative gallery that will help them learn to generate a self-sustaining business.

The Art Village Artists will sponsor classes in Marketing, Merchandising, Pricing and Photography to name a few. We will be available to mentor new Artists of all ages so they can grow in skills and knowledge.

We also want children artists from ages two to seventeen to create their art and put it for sale in our Art Of The Child Gallery. To perpetuate new artists in the community we will teach them the ins and outs of selling their art. They will receive a percentage of their sales and the balance will go into a fund that will support Art programs in the local schools and special projects.

Our mission is to help all artists on the Outer Banks join in developing a creative community that will entice visitors and locals to visit year round.

Art is a very important asset of this community and can be a saving grace in times of economic distress.

But we are not just all about Art…we are creating a place where you can come and play, have a picnic, listen to a concert, take a class, make some jewelry and more.

So add us to your agenda of things to do and you will be glad you did….tell us that JW sent you and get a surprise.

Have a wonderfully blessed day
Lorri and The Art Village Artists
252 256-3034

Such great news Lorri. Thanks for sharing. I can’t wait to waste hours away at the Outer Banks Art Village. Kudos for all of your hard work.

OBX Trip Planner: Art Aficionados

Posted on March 7, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

I’m feeling a little artsy today. I’m a firm believer that we all have an artist inside of us. Some just buried deeper than others. We just need the right inspiration, the right muse.

And what could be better than the Outer Banks to set our artistic talents ablaze?! I guess that’s why the OBX has so many amazing artists huddled on these sandy shores. And with amazing artists comes amazing art and amazing art galleries.

However, the artistic side of the OBX tends to get heavily overshadowed by the gorgeous beach side of the Outer Banks. I’m not sure that most OBX vacationers realize how much great art is actually available…a lot of great art just a few steps from the sand.

So, for our next installment of our OBX Trip Planner blog series, we are going to focus on the art that is all around us.

Enjoy…hope you get inspired.

Outer Banks Trip Planner: Art Aficionados

The Outer Banks is known for its local “flavor” – fresh seafood, unique shopping and southern charm. But did you know that we’ve also got tons of local art galleries and studios – where you’ll find a wide variety of art created by local and regional artists. From paintings, photography and pottery to jewelry, glass, wood, ceramics, fibers, candles and more, the art scene on the Outer Banks is a plethora of local talent.

Below are seven different activities perfect for artsy folks:


Day 1: Nags Head Art Galleries Seaside Art Gallery 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. They are also a preferred gallery of Disney St., Warner Bros., and Hanna Barbera animation art. Seaside Art Gallery has a constant changing exhibit of over 2,000 original works of art, and authenticity of all art is fully guaranteed. 2716 Virginia Dare Trail Nags Head (800) 828-2444
Yellowhouse Gallery An Outer Banks icon since 1969, we offer antique prints, maps, local artist prints and originals and Outer Banks historic and scenic photographs. Civil War and Natural History too. Custom Framing in the Annex! Highlighting work by Ray Matthews, E.M. Corsa, Hudson Williams, Linda Browning, Robin Rogers, Eve Turek, Karen Watras, Judith Bailey and more. 2902 S. Virginia Dare Trail (252) 441-6928
Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery Now in its 36th year – a Gallery of original art where the traditional and the avant-garde converge and where visitors are welcomed by the artist. In a building of his own design, Glenn Eure displays his work in a variety of media including dimensional watercolors, sculptural oil canvases, etchings, collagraphs, and woodcuts. Also sculpture, woodturnings, and clay work by guest artists and special exhibitions. 210 E. Driftwood Street, Gallery Row Nags Head (252) 441-6584

Day 2: Manteo Art Galleries The Andrus Gallery & Studio The Andrus Gallery & Studio is located on the waterfront in historic downtown Manteo. Nestled amongst dining, shopping, and many nautical historic displays, all walking distance from the studio, you can share Steve’s love for the water in this very unique enviroment. The gallery displays Steve’s paintings as well as houses his studio. Steve is always working on new watercolors and would happy to explain how he works. Stop by the studio and say hello and feel free to come back often. Queen Elizabeth Street Manteo ( 252) 305-5411
Mellow Dog Gallery Owner and resident artist KC Folds along with over 20 other local artists create the eclectic mix known as the Mellow Dog. Experience this gallery’s unique vibe while you shop. 104 Sir Walter Raleigh St. Manteo (252) 473-4777
Silver Bonsai Gallery Silver Bonsai Gallery on Roanoke Island is the joint creation of Goldsmiths, Ben & Kathryn Stewart. Their gallery is a reflection of the couple’s unique sense of style in Art & Design. Housing a wide variety of beautifully handcrafted fine jewelry, local and regional arts and fine crafts, and an impressive collection of Bonsai Trees, the Silver Bonsai is a fascinating destination while visiting the Outer Banks. 905 US Highway 64 Manteo (252) 475-1413
The Island Gallery Opened in 1967, the Island Gallery is the oldest gallery in the Outer Banks. Showing work of over 100 local and regional artists and craft people; oil paintings, water colors, sculptures, photography, jewelry, prints, collectibles, woodcuts and etchings. In addition to local artists you may discover original paintings and prints by national known artists, P. Buckley Moss and Albert Swayhoover. The 30,000 square foot building is shared with the well known Outer Banks original Christmas Shop. 621 South Highway 64 Manteo (252) 473-2838

Day 3: Paint Your Own Pottery at Glazin’ Go Nuts Stop in and have fun creating your own Outer Banks souvenir. Hundreds of items to choose including frames, plates, mugs, surfboards, pirate stuff and more! You paint it, we glaze and fire it in our kiln. Enjoy a cup of fresh brewed coffee or latte while you paint from the Front Porch Café next door. Fresh baked cookies everyday. Open every day 10 am – 6pm. No reservations necessary Glazin’ Go-Nuts Milepost 6, Hwy. 158 (the bypass) Kill Devil Hills (252) 449-2134

Day 4: Corolla Art Galleries Tar Heel Trading Company With two distinctive locations in Duck and Corolla, Tar Heel Trading Company has been bringing American handcrafts to the Outer Banks since 1979. Offering a wide variety of functional and decorative accessories for the home, office and garden by local and nationally known craftsmen. From wall décor to waterfowl carvings; designer jewelry to kaleidoscopes, all carefully selected and reasonably priced. Tim Buck II Shopping Center Corolla (252) 441-6235
Ocean Treasures Art Gallery & Gift Shop Located in the Timbuck II Shopping Center, Corolla. Over 150 pieces of art work on display including paintings, sculptures, and lucites. A gift shop with over 5,000 gift items with many from these artist – WYLAND, Thomas Kinkade, Guy Harvey, Mark Keathley, Walfrido Garcia, and Dan Mackin. Tim Buck II Shopping Center Corolla (252) 453-2383
Alice’s Craft Gallery High quality American arts and crafts at reasonable prices are the emphasis at Alice’s Craft Gallery. Shoppers will find a wide selection of pottery, jewelry, wood items, glass, wall art and chimes in a bright and relaxing atmosphere. Also carried are the works of local photographer Dan Waters. 815A Ocean Trail, Monteray Plaza Corolla (252) 453-0264

Day 5: Sip N Dip with Katy Caroline (Thursday) Sip N Dip is simply the joy of painting with Katy Caroline. All you do is bring yourself… wearing clothes you don’t mind getting paint on… and whatever you want to sip and snack on while you paint. Katy will provide all the rest! You will leave with your own 11 x 14 original version of whatever the group is painting that night in about 2.5 hours! Sip N Dip takes place at the ARTspace in Southern Shores on Thursday evenings from 6-8:30pm. They kindly ask that everyone arrive by 5:45pm so you can be settled in and ready to paint by 6pm. The cost for Sip N Dip is $35.00 per person and includes all art materials. Sip N Dip is an extremely popular event – with only 10 available spots and a lengthy waiting list. For more information on signing up for Sip N Dip, please visit their website below. Sip and Dip 1 Ocean Blvd Southern Shores (252) 261-ARTS

Day 6: Pea Island Art Gallery Please join us in supporting the Pea Island Wildlife Refuge and the Historic Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station. We’re excited to feature Unique Jewelry, Photography, Mixed Media, Glass, Pottery, Wood, Fiber, Sculpture, Garden Art, Original Paintings and reproductions as well as Etchings & Hand Pulled Original Prints Hand-Made by over 100 Local and Regional Artists. Come Enjoy the Fun ~ It’s a Delightful Experience Celebrating Creativity! Pea Island Art Gallery Southern most building in Salvo on the sound (252) 987-2879

Day 7: KDH Cooperative Gallery & Studios A truly locals gallery in the cooperative heart of the Outer Banks artists community whose mosaics, pottery, paintings, batiks, jewelry, sculpture, candles and collages are uniquely handmade. Classes are offered year-round and working studios are available to tour while artists are working. Guests can also watch the blacksmith at work at his forge. Take home a piece of the Outer Banks made right here. KDH Cooperative Gallery & Studios 502 S. Croatan Hwy Kill Devil HIlls (252) 441-9888

Jordan’s Lens: Barreling at Avon Pier

Posted on February 22, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

It’s been a while – too long – since I’ve shared some of Jordan’s art. We can all use a little Everyday Magic in our lives.

Here’s an awesome picture Jordan snapped while he was out hunting Toys from God. This is Avon Pier with a gorgeous wave.

When Jordan sent this to me, all he had to say was, “How about this barrel?”

Gorgeous, Jordan. Thanks for sharing your art with us.

Jordan's Lens: Barreling at Avon Pier

Outer Banks Everyday Magic: Jordan’s Lens – Waves

Posted on February 8, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

A beautiful morning has shifted to a cloudy afternoon. Thick, dark clouds are threatening to drop some moisture on our OBX day.

The dreary afternoon is sending me in search of a bright spot, and I know just the cure. A double-dose really; some awesome art from Jordan, and my one of my favorite subjects, waves.

Enjoy Jordan’s view of the Toys from God…

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Outer Banks Everyday Magic: Jordan’s Brush – “Tree of Life”

Posted on February 7, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

Has it been a full week without the awesomeness that is Jordan’s art to brighten our day?! Whew, sorry about that. I’ll be sure to get a few out this week.

It’s awesome to see how much the OBX motivates Jordan. When Jordan isn’t chasing Toys from God, he’s perfecting his new found love for art…and we are lucky enough to get a glimpse at his creations. Today we’re going to get a peek at what Jordan’s brush can do.

This is an acrylic painting on canvas that Jordan titles “Tree of Life.” I love the constant ocean theme in all of Jordan’s art…definitely some OBX magic in every stroke.

Thanks for sharing Jordan!

Outer Banks Everyday Magic: Jordan's Brush - "Tree of Life"

Outer Banks Link Love: 2.3.12 – Island Happs

Posted on February 3, 2012 by Seaside Vacations

Outer Banks Link Love

Here’s this week’s edition of Outer Banks Link Love – all the stories/links I couldn’t get to on the blog this week.

When I’m faced with a good news/bad news situation, I’m the type of person that likes to get the bad out of the way first so I can end on a good note. So, let’s look at the not-so-great links first.

Five months after Hurricane Irene wreaked havoc on the Outer Banks, her effects are still being felt. Sands that shifted during Ms. Irene’s visit have created some of the worst shoaling conditionsthe ferries have seen between Hatteras and Ocracoke. Add this channel to the list of dredging needs on the OBX!As a reminder, here’s what Hurricane Irene looked like:
While we’re on the subject of that nasty lady Irene, the news broke this week that a decision on how to find a “permanent” – permanence is all relative on a sand bar – solution to fix the breaches on Hatters after Irene’s visit has been delayed. It was determined that the engineers need more time to assess a possible 7 mile bridge that would run from the Ranger Station Inlet, currently spanned by the temporary bridge, to the village of Rodanthe on Hatteras Island. Hmmmm…so how do we access all of the PUBLIC conservation land then?
In a previous edition of OBX Link Love, I shared the news that Corolla is getting pretty close to getting it’s first new school since 1957. Eh, not so fast. Seems the NC State Board of Education may wait another month to make their vote on the new OBX charter school. Bureaucracy at its finest.
Here’s a nice story of an islander visiting another island – from Maine to the Outer Banks. It’s a good description of an OBX trip and the hospitality they encounter. It’s interesting the think that “island life” is a different sort of existence…but I guess it is.

Should I close with food or art? Tough one. Let’s start with food and close with art…

Did you know there is an Outer Banks chowder? Yep, we have our own chowder, thank you very much. Here’s a list of 7 Popular Chowders Across the US. ”Outer Banks” Clam Chowder does not include cream. Instead, the standard recipe is thickened with flour and seasoned with plenty of pepper.
Here are the results from the 34th Annual Frank Stick Art Showshowcasing the art of OBX locals. 110 entries! And here’s the best in show…congrats Ray Mathews.
Frank Stick Art Show - Best in Show - Ray Mathews

Time Capsule:

Here’s the beach report from 2.4.2011. It was definitely a chilly winter last year, but the FISH WERE BITING! Not so much this year. And my winter beard was giant…and awesome. Makes me want to bring that beast back. Hmmmmm.