Top 10 Martha's Vineyard Artists And Painters

Martha’s Vineyard, an island known for its natural beauty and artistic heritage, boasts a thriving community of talented artists, sculptors, and painters. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the top 10 creative minds who have left an indelible mark on the island’s vibrant art scene. From exquisite paintings that capture the island’s essence to awe-inspiring sculptures that blend seamlessly with the surroundings, these Martha’s Vineyard artists exemplify rich artistic tapestry.

“Everything you can imagine is real.” ― Pablo Picasso.

Exploring Vibrant Vineyard Artists

Vineyard Details

Address: 11 Winemack St, Oak Bluffs

Eric Lakso, the craftsman behind Vineyard Details, brings a unique blend of woodworking expertise and Martha’s vineyard artists. While he modestly considers himself more of a mechanic than an artist, his handcrafted wooden creations speak volumes. As a seasoned carpenter, Eric seamlessly transitioned his skills into crafting functional yet exquisite wooden art pieces that adorn many island homes he’s helped build. Vineyard Details offers a diverse range of items, from custom-made pieces to children’s picnic tables and humidors, all meticulously designed to withstand the test of time. Eric’s commitment to excellence extends to the finishing process, where he employs his keen eye for detail to create high-gloss, grain-enhanced masterpieces.

A.E Kirkpatrick Jewelry Design

Address: 13 Beach St Ext 203, Vineyard Haven

A.E. Kirkpatrick Jewelry Design is a hidden gem in the artistic landscape of Martha’s Vineyard. Founded by Amy Kirkpatrick in 1998, this independent jewelry business is a testament to creativity and craftsmanship. Amy’s specialty lies in crafting unique, custom-made sterling silver jewelry, often incorporating found objects, sea glass, and sea shells collected from the island’s pristine beaches.

What sets AEK Jewelry Design apart is its ability to turn everyday items like vintage buttons, scrabble pieces, and even Legos into wearable pieces of art. While A.E. Kirkpatrick Jewelry Design no longer maintains a dedicated storefront, it welcomes inquiries and custom orders through email. Amy Kirkpatrick’s creations capture the essence of Martha’s Vineyard, making her a notable artist in our list of top 10 Vineyard artists, sculptors, and painters on the island.

Jessica Pisano Fine Art

Jessica Pisano, a distinguished artist hailing from the picturesque Martha’s Vineyard, has cultivated her craft through a profound connection to nature. Her artistic journey commenced amidst the island’s stunning landscapes, inspiring her to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing and Photography from Lewis & Clark College in 1999. Jessica’s creative odyssey led her to Florence, Italy, as part of her studies abroad, further enriching her artistic repertoire. She later earned a Master’s in Arts Administration from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2002.

Jessica Pisano’s work is a captivating blend of the abstract and representational. Employing the traditional techniques of the Old Masters, she meticulously layers oil paints to render her subjects, often birds and trees, with remarkable precision. This classical approach starkly contrasts with her contemporary, intuitive application of paint to create expressive backgrounds, resulting in a compelling juxtaposition of styles.

Throughout her career, Pisano has graced numerous solo and group exhibitions, amassing recognition and acclaim. Her art finds a home in private and public collections worldwide. As a prominent Martha’s vineyard artists, her work echoes the island’s natural beauty and serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the craft.

Eisenahuer Gallery

Address: 38 North Water Street, Edgartown Ma

The Eisenhauer Gallery, founded by Connecticut natives Paul Caval and Elizabeth Eisenhauer, stands as a cornerstone of artistic excellence on Martha’s Vineyard. Their journey began in 1996 when they met on Block Island, and their shared passion for art led to the gallery’s inception. Initially traditional in its approach, the gallery soon transformed into a hub for contemporary art. In 2000, a second Eisenhauer Gallery opened its doors in Edgartown, solidifying its status as a premier art destination on the island.

The gallery showcases the works of over 40 artists, ranging from local talents in Chilmark, MA, to international artists hailing from places like New Zealand. Known for its eclectic paintings and elegant showroom, the Eisenhauer Gallery offers a diverse collection that truly captivates the soul. Beyond art, the gallery fosters community by hosting live local music events during the summer months, making it an essential stop for art enthusiasts visiting Martha’s Vineyard or exploring their collections online.

Susie White

Susie White, born in 1970 and hailing from Chicago, is a multifaceted artist known for her remarkable contributions to both the world of fine art and the entertainment industry. She earned her B.A. in Fine Art from Ithaca College and later found herself in Los Angeles, where she sharpened her skills as a scenic artist for film and television. This experience allowed her to master texture creation and develop a profound understanding of materials and processes, which she skillfully applies in her painting.

Her unique artistic journey led to her works being featured on sets for commercials, television shows, and movies. White’s “constructions” often find their origins in organic inspirations, such as lichen growth or natural patterns. She employs a diverse range of materials on primed Masonite panels, culminating in interconnected ideas that define her style.

White’s connection to Martha’s Vineyard, where she now resides, was forged through her husband and cherished summer visits to a family camp on Tashmoo. This idyllic setting continues to be a wellspring of inspiration for her artistry.

Her work graces galleries and private collections across New England and California. Additionally, she has participated in prestigious juried shows and her artistic contributions to film and television productions are widely recognized, making her one of the standout Martha’s vineyard artists. Today, Susie White’s snug studio in Vineyard Haven is surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, providing ongoing inspiration for her artistry and creative expression.

Morse Fine Arts and The Granary Gallery

Address: 636 Old Country Road, West Tisbury, MA 02575

Morse Fine Arts and The Granary Gallery are prominent fixtures in the Martha’s Vineyard art scene, offering a delightful journey into the world of artistic expression. The Granary Gallery, housed within an iconic red barn, stands as the island’s oldest and largest art gallery. It beckons both families seeking a creative adventure and serious art aficionados. The gallery boasts an indoor exhibit space and an art-filled courtyard gallery, providing a picturesque backdrop to showcase a rich tapestry of fine art. Visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, and photorealistic works by renowned national, regional, and local artists, including the exciting talents of emerging creators. With three distinct locations across the island, each with its own character, Morse Fine Arts and The Granary Gallery extend a warm invitation to explore the vibrant Martha’s Vineyard artistry scene.

“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.”
– Bob Ross

Silver Sahara

Address: 10 Old Courthouse Rd, Vineyard Haven

Silver Sahara is a remarkable Moroccan import store that has found its place among the top Vineyard artists, sculptors, and painters. Founded by the dynamic duo of Carolina Cooney and Mohamed El Fassi, this establishment specializes in curating authentic, handcrafted treasures sourced directly from indigenous Tuareg and Berber Amazigh artisans of Morocco and North Africa.

What sets Silver Sahara apart is its commitment to ethical practices and fair trade. The artisans who craft these unique items receive fair wages, ensuring a sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership. The products, ranging from vibrant textiles to intricately designed metalwork, often reflect generations of traditional craftsmanship.

This artistic haven began as a fusion of cultures and a quest for the source of Majorelle Blue. Silver Sahara’s mission goes beyond commerce, reinvesting a substantial portion of its profits into Moroccan artisan cooperatives and communities. By upholding a sustainable fair-trade model, this establishment enriches both its customers’ lives and the livelihoods of the talented Moroccan artisans, rightfully earning its place among Martha’s Vineyard’s top artistic influencers.

“The principle of true art is not to portray, but to evoke” –Jerzey Kosinski

Jewett Studios

Jewett Studios is synonymous with the artistic legacy of Bob Jewett, a prominent artist, sculptor, and sailor who found his muse on Martha’s Vineyard.Bob’s life and art were intertwined, reflecting his deep connection to the Atlantic Ocean’s power and the images it inspired. His ceramics and sculptures, characterized by simple beauty, echoed the coastal wonders of Martha’s Vineyard. His work found a home at the Louisa Gould Gallery on the island and was exhibited widely across the upper Midwest.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Bob continued the Jewett family tradition of sailing excellence on Martha’s Vineyard. His passion for teaching was equally remarkable, evident in his studio classroom, where he guided students to discover the joy of making art imbued with personal meaning. His influence lives on through the Robert Jewett Award for Excellence in Ceramics, honoring his legacy as an artist, teacher, and leader.

“A picture is a poem without words” – Horace

Leslie Freeman Designs

Leslie Freeman Designs, a prominent artist on Martha’s Vineyard, is a ceramic virtuoso known for her exquisite craftsmanship. Her creations are a testament to her dedication and passion for the craft. Leslie’s ceramic pieces, all personally crafted by her, are mid-ranged fired, ensuring their durability and functionality, as they are both dishwasher and microwave safe. Her designs encompass a diverse range, including full dinnerware sets, which can be customized to suit individual preferences.

Leslie Freeman invites art enthusiasts to explore her ever-evolving portfolio, a testament to her commitment to the craft. With her unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, she stands by every piece she creates, striving for excellence in both form and function.

Althea Designs

Address: 34 Beach Rd, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Althea Freeman-Miller is a prominent Martha’s vineyard artists, renowned for her expertise in linoleum block print design and painted folk art. As a dedicated full-time artist, she operates from her creative wellness studio and print shop at 34 Beach Road in Vineyard Haven. Althea’s artistic journey extends beyond her visual creations; she is also a facilitator of creative wellness workshops, including journaling groups. Her mission goes beyond artistry; it aims to inspire and guide individuals in discovering their inner truths and purposes through creative wellness techniques and the act of artistic expression. Althea’s presence enriches the vibrant artistic community of Martha’s Vineyard, making her a notable figure among the island’s top artists.

Artistic soul thrives through the creative expressions and these are the Vineyard artists and painters….

Martha’s Vineyard’s artistic soul thrives through the creative expressions of these exceptional artists, sculptors, and painters. Their works not only adorn the island but also reflect its unique spirit. As we conclude our journey through this curated list of talents, we celebrate the diversity, passion, and innovation that define Martha’s Vineyard’s art community. These remarkable artists continue to shape the island’s cultural landscape, ensuring that its artistic legacy endures for generations to come.

Also discover – Top 10 Creative Artists, Sculptors and Painters in Plymouth