Alabama’s art scene is plentiful, especially along the Coast. Uncover one-of-a-kind artwork from talented creators with something for everyone to appreciate.
Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach gives you a chance to get in on the action! Book your class at the Hot Shop and learn to work with molten glass. According to Director Desiree Hodge, “This is a hands-on experience with a 20 minute demonstration so that guests can see three types of glass-working techniques, which result in three different items.” She said visitors can pick which of the three types of artwork they’d like to make, select their own colors , then “work directly with the glass artists to create their take-home memento of their time in Orange Beach.”
Children get to enjoy plenty of fun, too. Hodge said, “We offer homeschool and after school classes for 12 weeks in the fall and 12 weeks in the spring. Each semester is filled with different experiences for the children that are educational, fun and sometimes really ambitious...which gives them great pride when they have completed more detailed projects. Lessons include working with our clay and glass artists as well as experiencing a variety of other mediums including painting, sketching, nature, music, photography and more. Sometimes they take field trips to experience such things as Sand Castle University on our beach! In the summer we offer three camps: Kids Camp in early June, 'Lil Kids Camp in late June, and Teen Camp in July.”
She said she understands what all the fuss is about.
“Our Educational Coordinator was a high school teacher for 12 years and has a great heart for children which shows in her teaching. The classes always fill up quickly.”
Hodge said that very thing reminds her of her favorite part of working at the Coastal Arts Center.
“While I am inspired by and enjoy the many beautiful artworks here, my favorite thing is the relationships we form with both the artists and the patrons. Many friendships have been made over the years.”
The arts center also offers rentals and special events. Hodge explained, “Special events take a lot of time to coordinate and plan, so we have two wedding and events specialists who assist with those types of things. They work to make sure the guests experience kind and supportive Southern hospitality while on our grounds.”
She said her team works hard to make every moment special.
“Event days are always busy and exciting, but our reviews reveal that we are indeed a premier location for such things.”
Speaking of events, the CAC has a few of their own. Hodge spoke about her favorite annual event.
“Hands down it is the two-day Festival of Art which brings in almost 20,000 visitors each year. This show is a juried fine art show featuring 100 fine artists annually. The other elements, including culinary art, music stages, and specialty goods all feature local talent and goods. The show has garnered an excellent reputation and has received many awards, including Best of Bama - Art Festival by Alabama Magazine, Best of Baldwin by Gulf Coast Media, and is ranked nationally in the Top 100 Fine Art Shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine, the industry standard for traveling festival artists.”
“Again, relationships are my favorite thing. I have made many lifelong friends through this show and am proud of the community of volunteers that comes together to make it happen.”
The Art Scene
The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach boasts a gorgeous bayfront backdrop. This 10,000 square-foot fine art gallery displays works by Gulf Coast artists. You can make your own glass at The Hot Shop or ceramics at the Clay Studio. Adults’ and kids’ art classes flourish throughout the year. Be sure to check out the gift shop with original items by local artists.
Fish on a Dish at The Wharf features local art, pottery, jewelry, ornaments, clocks, figurines and greeting cards. See the large selection of artwork,
Photo Credit: Foley Art Center
Shopping at Foley Art Center
Foley Art Center
then ask about shipping and layaway options.
Foley Art Center is a nonprofit focused on advancing and building awareness of art’s value, culture and creativity. The Center also offers cultural enrichment programs in local schools. Dive into art classes for children and adults, or peruse the gallery and enjoy plenty of art-centric events.
Fish River Furnishings and Art Gallery creates custom artwork and projects. Browse new pieces, or bring your own items to let them do the painting.
Fric-N-Frac at The Wharf has custom airbrushed t-shirts, hats, tags and creates caricatures for you, your family and friends. Browse the various unique gifts, apparel, souvenirs, henna tattoos, and have your face painted.
Gulf Coast Arts Alliance offers art markets, adult classes, an art gallery and art-themed festivals. It is dedicated to advancing creativity and enhancing the quality of life on the Gulf Coast.