My Inspiration

Some artists struggle for inspiration, but for me, it is simple. Take something you are so passionate about, something that is so beautiful, so ever-changing, and the inspiration part is so easy.

Growing up on the coast, experiencing so many fantastic days on the water, there is always something new around every corner.  The colors are amazing, and I’ve had the opportunity to visit more than a few beaches in my lifetime. The water in the Gulf and Caribbean, sunrises and sunsets, the blue skies, coral reefs, the infinite colors of the sea creatures…they all create an astonishing palette to work with.

A few years back, we went snorkeling in the Dominican Republic (made it back alive, thank God!) and saw some of the most amazing sea fans on the coral reefs.   With this inspiration, I designed my Sea Fan in Blue Scarf to hark back to that trip, the deep blue of the ocean cruise, and the coral reefs of the DR. Then one day in January back home in South Carolina, I came across 50+ sand dollars in one day along Isle of Palms. This too led to another design that is still in process with several sand dollars and a fuchsia color theme.

There is now scientific evidence confirming what we have all known -- just being on the beach or near water has huge health benefits! Last year I read Blue Mind by Wallace Nichols who lays out the evidence of the many benefits to human of being on or near the water. Scientists have confirmed the data, and it turns out that living by coasts leads to an improved sense of physical health and well-being. Contact with water induces a meditative state that makes us happier, healthier, calmer, AND MORE CREATIVE!   

So get out there, follow your passion, and make time to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us. Take nothing for granted, enjoy the simple things in life, make the most of each day, and stay on the water as much as possible.

Cheers!