I always love visiting the beach. However, as a member of the 100
+ SPF club, I can usually be found hanging out under an umbrella. Instead of taking in the rays, I take in the scene before me, and often spend time painting and sketching. While the water is awe-inspiring and the sky can be breath-taking, my eye is always attracted to the fun array of umbrellas dotting the beach. They shout SUMMER! in a way nothing else can.
I painted these umbrellas while on vacation in Ocean City, MD last year. They make a nice reminder of a great vacation. Of all the beach artwork I've done, this was the first time I took the beach out of the scene and just focused on the umbrellas. I like how it brings out their individual "personalities".
I'm not the only one using the beach umbrella as a muse. Below is a colorful collection of artwork showcasing beautiful beach umbrellas. Don't they just make you feel happy? Enjoy, and stay cool in the shade. It's hot out there!