By Chelsea Reed

Summer is in full swing! What can be finer than spending it with family outdoors? In today’s high tech world, the importance to go outside with your young ones (and the young at heart) s increasing. Do it now while the weather is still warm!

Looking for inspiration to motivate your family with outdoor adventure? Check out these seven art pieces at Seaside Art Gallery:

1. A Day Together

By Betty C. White

Spending time outdoors is fun for all ages, and you can never start too early. This watercolor painting of a woman and a baby at the beach is simple sweetness. It’s also featured in Outer Banks Squared: The Art Show.

2. Springtime Outing (Grizzly Family)

By Rebecca Latham

Humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy the outdoors! This grizzly cub seems delighted to tag along with his mama bear after a long winter’s nap. The fur detail in this watercolor painting is amazing.

3. Enjoying the Outdoors

By Gregory Kavalec

We dare you to not smile at this adorable oil on canvas painting. The happy faces on these young ladies are precious! Whether they be two sisters or mother and daughter, they sure are pleased as punch with the stunning pinks and violets in this floral scenery.

Fun in the Water is a miniature oil painting of an elephant family by Beverly Abbott

4. Fun in the Water

By Beverly Abbott

This elephant family playing in the water is wholesome, isn’t it? The oil on ivorine brings out the remarkable details of their leatherlike skin. The painting also happens to be miniature art. It’s easy to pack and take home after a family vacation.

5. Playing by the Shore

By Karin Shaefers

And now here’s a human family version! Karin’s skilled impressionism with the oil on canvas shows how life is beautiful…even when it gets messy. Getting wet at the beach is fun. That’s what families do, right?

6. Outing with the Kids

By Sun Bauer

Mother Nature is a thrilling playground for children. It’s the place where treasure hunts, sword fights, and rescue missions happen. What do you think these curious kittens are about to get into? Their wary parent in this oil painting on canvas doesn’t appear too happy…

7. Tug O’ War

By David Hunter

If you’re desperate for the kids to do something that will blow off steam, the solution is in three words: tug of war. The more people who get into it, the better. This watercolor etching captures the fun and excitement in a good game of tug of war. It’s a great outdoor activity for family reunions!

It’s easy to see how natural areas are the perfect place for family bonding in the summertime. The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a prime example. From its miles of pristine beaches to its National Parks, you won’t run out of things to do together any time soon. And when you need to head indoors to cool off from the heat, you can see the wonderful art mentioned here at Seaside Art Gallery in Nags Head. Happy summer!