By Chelsea Reed
A long time ago in an American colonial settlement, 143 English Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to feast, celebrate, and give thanks for new friends and a bountiful harvest after a harsh year. Today, Americans and even international people come to United States homes to celebrate in the same spirit. At Seaside Art Gallery, we’re thankful too! These original paintings by American artists pay homage to this special national holiday from almost 400 years ago.
Blue Feathers by Gail MacArgel
Blue jays and Indian corn…what could be more American than that? This miniature oil painting has a complementing balance of warm and cool colors, and its size makes a perfect tabletop presentation.
Charcuterie by Debra Kierce
This unique artwork is oil on gesso primed and brushed aluminum panel. It’s based off the Dutch painting “Still Life with Turkey Pie” by Pieter Claesz, but the spinoff is painted by American artist Debra Kierce. The colorful details and placements of the food are sure to strike a conversation with your holiday guests. Fun fact: the original still life was painted six years after the first 1621 Thanksgiving!
Thanks-for-Giving Daffy Duck by Warner Bros. Studios
Check out this animation cel from the original Looney Tunes episode “Daffy Duck’s Thanks-for-Giving Special.” Fans of the famous fowl will recognize this scene. We wonder…did the show inspire later Thanksgiving traditions for other TV series?
Hatteras Man – A Great Day for Fishing by Gregory Kavalec
Nothing says ‘Thanksgiving’ on Hatteras Island like coming home with a bountiful catch of fish. Other local Outer Banks dishes on the Thanksgiving table include she-crab soup, oysters rockefeller, cheese grits, collard greens, and marshmallow candied yams. Hungry yet?
Waiting to Play by Sue Wall
This acrylic miniature painting looks so comfy. Don’t these cuties remind you of the post-turkey nap? Everyone in the family piled on the couch, bellies full, and ready to watch football…or plan their routes for Black Friday shopping! Be on the lookout for holiday treasures at Seaside Art Gallery and the shops in the Gallery Row Arts District.
Bushel of Gourds by Debra Kierce
Colorful gourds are a classic decoration for Turkey Day, and they taste great. These oil painted gourds are so realistic they look identical to real ones, and they won’t expire either. They’re a great Thanksgiving gift to show someone your gratitude for their holiday invitation!
Heartfelt American Traditions
From the West to East Coasts, Thanksgiving is a special time to reflect and celebrate the friends, family, and blessings in our lives. And we’re thankful for our viewers, artists and patrons! Seaside Art Gallery is closed Thanksgiving Day, and will reopen for Black Friday and the holiday weekend. From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes online content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina.