Donna began creating Coastal Décor when she first moved to St. James in 2014.  She loves being outdoors, especially taking long walks on the beach. Donna is a retired Special Education Teacher who was challenged daily to find creative ways to help her students learn, and she now uses those creative talents in her artwork.  She quickly discovered a new retirement hobby here in Coastal Southeastern NC collecting seashells and broken shells on the beaches of Oak Island and Caswell Beach.  With some encouragement, Donna began to find creative ways to use her shells.

Her first creation was an ornament with a sailboat made from two small broken shell pieces.  Donna’s collection now includes a variety of coastal artwork: Turtle Ornaments, Angel Ornaments, Shell Trees, Beach Glass Trees, Shell Wreaths, Shell Balls, Shell Mirrors, and Framed Shell Décor.  You will find many of these pieces of art in homes in St. James! 

“Walking on the beach provides an opportunity to exercise both my body and my mind.  I get my inspiration from the shells and broken pieces I stoop to collect, and I envision how these shells can come together to create a piece of art.  Each walk on the beach is unique.  Each creation is unique.  I’m so fortunate to be able to enjoy my hobby in such a naturally beautiful place!”   

​Donna is a member of The Artisans and The Artisans Gallery on Howe in Southport. 
Email: spt4usd@gmail.com