Art in the Details: The Hand-Carved Coastal Art World of Ann Lake

April 18, 2025

More Than Meets the Eye: Hand-carved Coastal Art

There’s something captivating about art that fools the eye. At first glance, Ann Lake’s latest hand-carved Yellowtail Snapper looks like a mounted trophy fish. The colors, the details, even the translucency of the fins—it’s so lifelike that you’d never guess it was made entirely from carved wood and hand-molded acrylic. But that’s the kind of magic Ann creates.

Hand-carved Yellowtail Snapper, by Ann Lake - available for purchase at Padre Island Art Gallery

Ann Lake has been making art for as long as she can remember. Born in a suburb of Chicago in 1950, she spent much of her childhood at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Brookfield Zoo, places that fueled her love for art and animals. She earned her B.F.A. from Illinois Wesleyan University and later moved to Indiana, where her path took a turn toward the printing industry. But no matter where her career went, Ann never stopped creating.

“I can’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t drawing, painting, or making something,” she says. “Even when I wasn’t working in the arts professionally, I was always learning new techniques.”

From Flat Canvas to Three Dimensions

Ann’s artistic journey spans a variety of media—painting, printmaking, pottery, and woodworking. But it wasn’t until she discovered ceramics that she began to truly see in three dimensions. In the 1990s, she started combining her love for painting and sculpture through power carving. It was the beginning of a new chapter that brought together all her skills.

Ann Lake working on her latest acrylic painting titled, PINS (Padre Island National Seashore) - which recently SOLD at Padre Island Art Gallery

She uses her background in painting to add depth, light, and realism to each piece, transforming blocks of wood into lifelike representations of marine life.

Charming Santa Ornaments with a Twist

Ann’s work isn’t limited to wildlife. She’s also well known for her old-world style Santa ornaments made from Padre Island driftwood, each one carved and painted with its own unique expression. No two are alike. From the twinkle in their eyes to the hand-painted details of their beards and hats, each Santa has its own personality. Some have kind eyes, others look surprised or mischievous, but all are unmistakably full of charm.

Charming Old-World Style Santa Ornaments, Hand-carved by Ann Lake - Available for purchase at Padre Island Art Gallery

“For me, every piece I make is a problem that needs to be solved,” Ann says. “That’s what I love about creating. It’s the process, the challenge, and the joy of making something with your hands.”

From Illinois to Island Life

Ann moved to Corpus Christi in 2014. Her garage studio is filled with works in progress—a blend of nature, holiday spirit, and whimsy all rolled into one. When she’s not carving or painting, you’ll likely find her gardening or walking the beach—still drawing inspiration from the natural world around her.

Every piece Ann creates reflects that connection. There’s a sense of curiosity and playfulness in her work, but also a deep respect for the craftsmanship and patience it takes to bring each carving or painting to life.

Come See the Detail Up Close

Ann Lake’s work is on display and available for purchase at Padre Island Art Gallery. Her carvings make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts and are cherished by collectors who appreciate the level of skill and heart that goes into each piece.

If you’ve never seen her work in person, this is your invitation to stop by, take a closer look, and discover the artistry hidden in every curve and brushstroke.

The Art of Island Life will return next week with more stories and inspiration from our coastal community. Have a story to share or an upcoming event? Reach out to me at melissa@padreislandartgallery.com.