Remember that beautiful sailboat art I shared in my office space in last week’s blog post? I wanted to tell you a little more about the artist, and show you some more of her art, because she is one of my all time favorites.

I discovered Blakely on Instagram probably 6 or 7 years ago and I’ve been eyeing all her art ever since.

She gifted me this print, and I first tested it out in the office, but I think it’s found a more permanent home in our bedroom.

Do you think this is a better location? Maybe I’ll have to get another blue or pink one to put back in the office-turning-nursery. :)

I’d say Blakely is probably famous for her marsh paintings, but she has other series that are so dreamy, too. Like sailboats and paintings inspired by her various travels. Her paintings are so Charleston and I think every home here needs a little Blakely.

She sells originals as well as prints! I bet the originals have such gorgeous texture. Plus, you can’t beat having handmade one-of-a-kind art.

I wanted to know about more about Blakely and what inspires her, so we did a little Q&A:

Where are you from?: Annapolis, Maryland.

What brought you to Charleston?: I came here to go to the College of Charleston.

When did you start painting?: I started taking painting seriously my Junior year of high school. 

What did you start painting at first?: I've always painted coastal pieces, it's just what feels like me.

When/where do you create your art?: I have a studio at the Cigar Factory downtown, and I usually am in there 9-5. I try to treat it like a normal job, so that I push myself when I don't feel quite as inspired, and on the other side, won't over work myself.

What is your favorite piece you've ever painted?: That's hard! I don't usually keep my paintings, but I do have a piece I did of a bridge in my hometown that I keep in my bedroom. 

I have always loved your sail boat paintings. What/when/where are they inspired by?: I grew up sailing with my dad. It was this special thing we did just the two of us! I also lived by a marina, so that was the backdrop of my childhood!

Where or how do you look for inspiration when you're feeling uninspired?  I usually look at books about other artists and try to implement their color combinations or stylistic decisions into my own style. I also like to make collages from magazines or do little drawing practices. 

Some of your art has been inspired by your travels. Where is your favorite place you've been outside the US?: Italy! I went first when I was in 8th grade and fell in love with it. Then, as a Junior in college, I went for a semester abroad. I studied at an incredible art school there and started to hone in on my style. Then, my husband and I went back last year to experience one of our favorite places together! It is one of the most magical places on earth. The food, the light and colors, the people- I just adore it! I love that quote by Giuseppe Verdi, 'You can have the universe, if I can have Italy.'

What can we look for from Blakely Made next? Next I am working on outdoor dining scenes! Think 'Al Fresco Dining'! I think it'll be perfect for spring!

Because we all love to hear locals' favorites:

Favorite season in Charleston?: SUMMER. It's SO hot and SO humid, and I just LOVE IT.
Favorite Charleston brunch restaurant?: Park Cafe - that fried egg sandwich!
Favorite festival/event in Charleston?: Spoleto + Piccolo Spoleto, of course! The city is buzzing with art!
Favorite place to watch the sunset in Charleston?: I love watching from Brittlebank park or Colonial Lake.
Favorite date night idea in Charleston: I like walking to dinner at Tu, an Indian restaurant on Meeting. Then with full bellies, going for a night walk through South of Broad. Finish up with ice cream from Off Track Ice Cream!

Thanks for tuning in! Too see more of Blakely’s art or to learn more about her, visit her website: www.blakelymade.com.