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This week’s Art of Island Life is all about celebration, reflection, and new beginnings. After three and a half wonderful years as owner of Padre Island Art Gallery, I’m thrilled to officially reveal the next chapter—Evoke Studio & Gifts. It’s a boutique-style gallery that blends fine art, design, and connection in fresh, meaningful ways. A place to linger, laugh, and return often—to design a hat, find a thoughtful gift, or simply be inspired by creativity in all its forms.

Padre Island Art Gallery hosts Surf Art & Poster Show with master wave artist Wade Koniakowsky—November 8. Join us for his workshop Gulf Coast Oceanscapes on November 7.

At the Sea Turtle Festival, Melissa Mitchell joined fellow Island makers to share art, stories, and community—rediscovering her own work in a new light with a change of view.

Artist update: Joseph Raymond is shifting gears. Enjoy 10% off his work through year-end, see featured pieces at Wine Down Wednesday, and ask about commissions.

If you’ve ever said, “I don’t have room for more art,” this week’s column is for you. When wall space is limited, discover creative ways to style art in even the smallest areas of your home. From seasonal tablescapes to charming coffee table vignettes, Melissa shares decorator tips and inspiration for bringing small spaces to life with personal touches and coastal flair.

Discover the hidden meanings in coastal art—from lighthouses and anchors to 'mermaid money'—and explore the personal story behind Rising Up, Melissa Mitchell’s collaboration across time with the late artist John Olvey. Featuring local icon Kent Ullberg’s swordfish sculpture and a special screening of Ullberg: Wind in the Sails.

Keeping cool on the coast? Padre Island Art Gallery & Prancing Paws offer breezy tips for summer fun—plus this week’s gallery clue!

Discover the story behind Melissa Mitchell’s feature in Island Living Magazine, where art, storytelling, and island life come together. Explore her creative journey, inspiration, and coastal community impact.

Join the First Annual Summer Gallery Scavenger Hunt at Padre Island Art Gallery—weekly clues, prizes, and a grand art-filled finale you won’t want to miss!

Discover Al Kline’s award-winning Boat Yard watercolor series at Padre Island Art Gallery. Explore how this plein air artist captures the light, lines, and spirit of coastal life with masterful precision.

July 10, 2025 Every child deserves a reason to smile. That’s the simple, beautiful idea behind the Kaylee’s Light Toy Drive, now in its...

Discover the art of light and color with Jeanette Nickas—peaceful oil paintings that tell a story through vibrant hues, quiet beauty, and coastal inspiration.

Explore how art creates quiet connections and meaningful moments and good conversation—through shared stories, deep reflection, and the power of simply pausing to feel.

Sparking creativity at Padre Island Art Gallery’s first Kids Summer Art Camp—five days of fun, hands-on projects designed to inspire the next generation of artists!

Discover Nathan Floyd’s colorful connection to the coast—surfing, photography, and dynamic coastal art painted with surf wax combs and inspired by the motion of waves, nature, and the rhythm of Island life.

Celebrate the spirit of summer with coastal art, island inspiration, and a nostalgic banana pudding recipe that captures the season’s warmth and creativity.

Discover the lifelike artistry of Ann Lake, whose hand-carved marine life and driftwood Santas blend craftsmanship, whimsy, and island-inspired charm.

Honoring Kaylee’s light through art and kindness—a powerful story of love, loss, and the ripple effect of small gifts that continue to touch our Island community.

Join artist Joseph Raymond for an inspiring abstract art workshop and show at Padre Island Art Gallery—plus shop local gifts and explore creative event space!

Sourdough is more than bread—it’s art, tradition, and creativity in your kitchen. Learn simple, no-fuss tips for baking delicious loaves, crackers, and more.