The Artists At Gulf Place Provide a Hot Spot to Shop

Just behind the large commercial buildings in the town of Gulf Place, a group of diverse South Walton artists have created a fun and funky collection of small shops. Dwight Ward started The Artists at Gulf Place in 1999 and it's become a magnet for locals and beach visitors ever since.

The artists in the group are quite diverse, with eclectic creations and products, displaying unique styles, so consider it a guarantee that there is a little something for every shopper.

The eight colorful kiosks are full of jewelry, pottery, photography, watercolors, recycled art, wearable art, tie-dye, ceramic and resin sculptures, acrylics, stained glass, outdoor furniture, t-shirts, and so much more!

Dwight Ward  Dwight, founder of The Artists at Gulf Place, has made useable handmade pottery pieces for many years. You have probably seen his t-shirts that say, “I bought my pot from Dwight.” Dwight makes mugs, bowls, pots, and vases all with a natural look by using designs like dragonflies and leaves. Dwight is a local favorite and his pottery has become very popular amongst locals and visitors alike.
 
John Hollan John is a local photographer out of Destin, FL. He is a master of capturing beautiful beach scenes with his camera. He also shoots beach portraits for families. John has been a part of The Artists at Gulf Place since 2008. His kiosk is loaded with beautiful images, perfect to hang in any beach home.
 
Maria Dante Maria is an abstract painter who captures elements of the beach in her art. Every painting has a hidden story, some more obvious than others. Her aesthetic changes from bright suns and orange crabs to a serene setting in a park or by the dunes.
 
Kris Ogden Kris makes handmade tie-dyed t-shirts of all sorts. Her colorful little kiosk is loaded with colorful shirts for everyone. During the summer Kris does two tie-dye classes a week on Mondays and Thursdays, where she teaches customers how to make their own shirt they can take with them. This is a fun, creative activity that kids love. If you would like a private class or birthday party just give her a call.
 
Violeta Jewelry If you have been to South Walton, you have probably heard of La Vie Est Belle in Seaside. The original leather and pearl jewelry can now be found at The Artists of Gulf Place at Violeta’s, along side an wide variety of children’s jewelry. If you don’t have one of Wendy Mignot’s pieces yet, you should stop by The Artists at Gulf Place and check them out.
 
Maxine Orange Maxine is an artist and designer, known for her bright abstract art and wearable art accessories. Her art will brighten up any room and her adorable signs make for the perfect greeting to your beach house. Maxine is bold and her art reflects that notion.
 
Two Girls Kim Chatwood and Christine Ramey have a very eclectic kiosk at The Artists at Gulf Place. You will find wall hangings, stained glass, handmade coasters, Raku pottery, iron candleholders, and beautiful paintings on canvas. Kim and Christine also offer face painting and henna tattoos on occasion. 
 
Broad Strokes Artist Sara Brasseur was raised between New York City and Paris, France with summers on SoWal Beaches. Sara's artwork has been influenced by the energy of large cities and the simplicity and beauty of Florida beach life. Sara paints with acrylic on canvas, makes fun signs on old wood, and refinishes old furniture using bright colors.

The Artists at Gulf Place green is the perfect spot to host a children’s birthday party. If you would like to arrange a party on the lawn with face painting, arts and crafts, or other fun activities, just call the studio at 850-622-0400. The Artists at Gulf Place offers fun classes for everyone. Artistic Spirits is a step-by-step painting class, taught by Maxine Orange, held every Thursday except the third Thursday of the month, which is the Third Thursday Wine Walkabout. Enjoy the Artistic Spirits class for just $40 a person. BYOB and let your Artistic Spirits run wild!

Check the SoWal Events Calendar for details on classes and events. Gulf Place is loaded with shopping and dining. It is the perfect place to bring the family for a day or night of entertainment. Enjoy top-notch cuisine at one of the great restaurants or shop 'til you drop at all of the fashion-forward boutiques.