"Holiday on Tybee", by Marcos Blahove

Hot Time In The SUMMER!!

2011-07-09T09:21:00.004-04:00

It's summertime on Tybee; the fish are jumpin' and the river is high... The beach is crowded, and the parking spaces are low! …And the people are here in droves! It's summer, and everyone wants to be at the beach! Our little 2 1/2 mile long, by 3/4 mile wide, island has definitely been re-discovered! Once upon a time, in the not too distant past, the Atlantic Beacon Gallery, and Hall of Frames custom framing, was always closed on Tuesdays; and we locked our doors promptly at 6PM during the summer - but those days are gone! The people are here, and they are strolling and shopping late into the evenings; so we’re here to to make their destination a little more pleasurable - albeit, culinary or visual art; everyone wants a little “taste” of the local fare!

SUMMER HOURS:
Open 7 Days a week;'
10AM -9PM Wednesday through Sunday, and
10AM - 6PM Monday and Tuesday

Our extended summer hours schedule makes it easy for any and everybody to come on out and for some great local art and gifts! Though our posted hours reflect a closing time of 9PM, it’s rare - if ever, that we actually close the doors before 10PM! Always delighted to see new and faithful patrons (season after season) for thirteen years, we never throw anybody out! And boy, our Artists are prepared; all 100 have genuinely been working long and hard to have great locally created art and gifts to tantalize and tempt; after all, we try hard to make it “SIMPLY IRRISTIBLE!”

The Atlantic Beacon Gallery truly has something for everyone; from great oil paintings by world renowned master impressionist, Marcos Blahove to locally created magnets, key chains, sharks tooth necklaces, and more! We are also very proud to now be the exclusive Tybee Island retailer for the Arthur Court line of Serveware. Arthur Court is well known as the successful California designer creating elegant serveware and decorative accessories inspired by nature. With over five hundred unique designs of excellent quality, Arthur Court has long been the leader in the alternative metal category.

The Atlantic Beacon Gallery, with in-house custom framing and fine art printing services by Hall of Frames, proudly represents 100 Local and Regional artists, creating in every medium; including twelve wall artists, ten of us are painters, and two photographers; Ten jewelers, seven potters, five stained glass artists, three sculptors, two mosaic artists, etc… And perhaps even a partridge in a “Palm” Tree! Ya’ll Come; You’re gonna love it!

2010 WINTER WORKSHOP SERIES

2010-01-08T19:53:00.007-05:00

PAINT WITH ARWARD WINNING ARTIST, DEBBIE BRADY ROBINSON

OIL, PLEIN-AIR PAINTING WORKSHOPS:
TYBEE ISLAND, & SAVANNAH, GA
PLEIN-AIR, OIL; FEB. 12TH, 13Th, AND 14Th
PLEIN-AIR, OIL; MAR. 10TH, 11th, AND 12th

ACRYLIC WET ON WET PAINTING WORKSHOPS:
TYBEE ISLAND, & SAVANNAH, GA
Wet on Wet, Acrylic; FEB. 24TH, 25Th, AND 26Th
Wet on Wet, ACRYLIC; MAR. 27THTH, 28TH AND 29th

http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2obt73bf9227461

American Made the Island Way!

2009-01-29T18:17:00.002-05:00

American Made, the Island Way!

I recently made the trek to Atlanta to the Merchandise Mart, you know… Where America Shops! Unfortunately, I found very little that “America”, as in the good ole
U. S. of A., actually made! It was terribly disappointing, to say the least. Everywhere you look, it’s, Made in China – from Sea to shining Sea; New York to Key West,
San Francisco to Savannah, even Cozumel to Nassau – it’s all the same! A person can find very little that’s manufactured in a land, at the very moment, upon which are planted one’s own two feet!

Years ago, we invited a Savannah doll maker to the gallery for a “doll signing” event. The artisan was on hand, signing her beautiful creations; each exquisite porcelain doll made from her own design. Things were going along quite smoothly, until one lady stormed back in with her recently signed doll. “This doll is Made in China”, exclaimed the lady, in total disgust and indignation! The formerly petite, and unassuming woman, suddenly bore a scary resemblance to the incredible hulk! “I want my money back”, she screeched, her green eyes bulging crimson red! “I understood that YOU, “were a local Artist, nose to nose with the poor little doll maker! I expected my doll to be made in Savannah, Georgia; Not from the savanna rice paddy regions of China! Yikes, to say the least, we were all a bit mortified! The tag did actually read,
MADE IN CHINA! Why and just how can such a thing happen!

It’s usually a genuinely “good” thing when an Artist’s work gets picked up by a company to use in the manufacturing process of their goods and services. The Artist typically receives payment and continuing royalties for the use of his or her own designs on various manufactured products. The problem is that most companies seek the cheapest form of manufacturing for their products; it’s simply a “bottom line” decision. And, just where do you think most companies turn for the cheapest labor and manufacturing… China, of course!

Believe it or not, in a “Free Market System”, we use our money as a means to actually cast our Vote for specifically whose goods and services we desire to be available for sale in America! I recently heard it put quite nicely: “The more money we spend on products from China, India, Mexico, and so on, the more of those products we will see in our stores. And, by buying those products the money enters their economy, and doesn't stay in the U.S.A.” That's why so many of us constantly, reinforce buying local; it keeps the money in the local economy – to the contrary, buying Chinese products sends money to the Chinese economy.”

Among our 100 Local Artists, the Atlantic Beacon Gallery still represents the work of three or four artists who have “made it big” so to speak. We’ve met them, we know their work, and we’re proud of the fact that they have found such great success! However, most of what we have is made right here in the good old USA; and more specifically on Tybee and nearby vicinities. So, the next time you’re shopping around town, be sure to cast your VOTE for the U.S.A.! Pick up the item and look for that “Made in America” tag; and if you happen to be shopping in the Atlantic Beacon Gallery, or Hall of Frames, pick up a piece of pottery, stained glass, ornament, pillow, painting, print, picture frame, perhaps even your grand baby’s portrait! How about a purse, some out door Art, a Marti Gras Mask, witty sign, scarf, necklace, painted furniture, window, wall plaque, pillow, beer mug, wine or martini glass, etc… and look for the tag with the words; American Made, the Island Way! You’ll have cast a definitive Vote for your money to stay right here at home! …And just like the “California almond growers” said, please - shop with us once a week, that’s all we ask; and, “We Thank You For Your Support!”

:) Debbie & Mark Robinson, and our wonderful Artists & Staff!

Stroke of the Artist, Second Saturday!

2009-01-08T08:44:00.002-05:00

Atlantic Beacon Gallery introduces, 'Stroke of the Artist, Second Saturday'! Join us, and watch our Artists work! Each 2nd Saturday of the month, local Artists will be on location creating their Art. Come on out and Ship, Sip, & Shop for great Art, and Unique hand crafts & gifts - island made, the American way!

Atlantic Beacon Gallery
Local Art & Gifts, &
Hall of Frames
custom framing & shipping center
1604 Butler Ave., downtown Tybee
(at Hwy 80's End)
786-9386
http://tybeeartist.blogspot.com/

On the Sixth Day of Christmas...

2008-12-17T20:49:00.004-05:00

Sherri Simmons found the Partridge,

on a turtle!

Atlantic Beacon Gallery's
Twelve Days of Christmas,continues...

Here's the next clue...

On the Sixth Day of Christmas,
My True Love Gave to me....
Six Geese A Flying...
Take 25% OFF
Local Artist, Mike Carter's,
flyng Geese, or his fabulous
Shore bird carved wooden sculptures!
Thurs, Dec 18th, ONLY!
The 6th day of Christmas!
Or... be the first to
find the Partridge in a ? and
get the item the partridge is on for Free!

Sherri Simmons
found the Partridge, on a turtle,
during her
Ship & Shop Spree -
making her the Big Winnner
on Wed., the 5th Day of Christmas!

Sherri, shown above with her prize -
a fabulous fused glass turtle!
And, Mark Robinson, owner of
Hall of Frames
Custom Framing and Ship & Shop!

Sherri came in to Ship a package to an ailing friend;

spent a little "Ship & Shop" time; and found the hidden Partridge!
a Win-Win for All!

Ship & Shop!

with us; it's a whole lot of fun!
at
Hall of Frames &
the Atlantic Beacon Gallery!

Who'll be the 6th Day of Christmas Winner?
Watch for specials every day throughout the
Twelve Days of Christmas -
And yep, Each Day, the Special gets A Little $Brighter!

FREE PARKING THROUGH DECEMBER 30TH!
786-9386
http://tybeeartist.blogspot.com/
www.atlanticbeacongallery.com

Debbie Brady Robinson
Mark D. Robinson

We Appreciate Your Business!

On the Fith Day of Christmas, My true Love...

2008-12-16T21:41:00.004-05:00

Ivy Inveninato - the Fourth Day of Christmas Winner!

Atlantic Beacon Gallery's
Twelve Days of Christmas,continues...
Ready for the next clue?
On the Fifth Day of Christmas,
My True Love Gave to me....
Fine, Golden Things...

Take 50% OFF
Any Gold Charm!

Wed, Dec 17th, ONLY!
The 5th day of Christmas!

Or... be the first to
find the Partridge in a ? and
get the item the partridge is on for Free!

(Nope, not in a pear tree; it was on the Egret!)

Ivy Inveninato, is
the Fourth Day of Christmas Winner!
Ivy won a beautiful ($50 Value) Ceramic Egret

(Ivy has named her Egret, "Ella")
Congrats, Ivy!!

And Thanks again to Judy Ouzts, (Sunday's) winnner - the 2nd Day of Christmas, for our new Marketing slogan:

Ship & Shop!

come on out and Ship & Shop with us;
it's a whole lot of fun!
at
Hall of Frames &
the Atlantic Beacon Gallery!

and we might just take Judy up on her
other suggestion, too;
Ship, Sip & Shop!!
What a great idea, Judy; How Tybee can we be!

Who'll be the 5th Day of Christmas Winner?

Watch for specials every day throughout the
Twelve Days of Christmas -
And yep, you guessed it -

Each Day, the Special gets A Little $Brighter!

FREE PARKING THROUGH DECEMBER 30TH!

Ship And Shop Center

2008-12-15T23:01:00.004-05:00

Monday's Winner!

Judy Found the Partridge; No, it wasn't in a Pear Tree!!

Judy Ouzts, of Papa's Bar-B-Q!

Judy won a print - $35 Value! Congrats, Judy!!

The Atlantic Beacon Gallery's
Twelve Days of Christmas,continues...
It's time for the next clue,
On the Fourth Day of Christmas,
My True Love Gave to me....
For All Your Shipping Needs,

Take 15% OFF
One Ship and Pack Service!

Tuesday, Dec 16th, ONLY!
The 4th day of Christmas!

Or... be the first to
find the partridge in a ? and
get the item the partridge is on for Free!
(hint:it's still not in a pear tree!)

Judy Ouzts won a print - $35 Value!
Congrats, Judy!!

And... Thank you Judy, for the new Marketing slogan:

Ship & Shop!

at the
Hall of Frames &
Atlantic Beacon Gallery!
and we might just take Judy up on her other idea;
Sip, Ship & Shop!!
How Tybee can we be!

Will You Be the Fourth Day of Christmas Winner?

Watch for specials every day throughout the
Twelve Days of Christmas -
Each Day, the Special gets A Little $Brighter!

FREE PARKING THROUGH DECEMBER 30TH!
786-9386
http://tybeeartist.blogspot.com/
www.atlanticbeacongallery.com

Debbie Brady Robinson
Mark D. Robinson

The Twelve Days of Christmas, Atlantic Beacon Gallery Sales & Fun

2008-12-14T23:05:00.005-05:00

"The Shell Collector"

by Master Impressionist, Marcos Blahove

The Atlantic Beacon Gallery's

Twelve Days of Christmas,continues...
It's time for the next clue,

On the Third Day of Christmas,
My True Love Gave to me....
'Oui', French Impressionists!

and a Percentage off a Gift for thee...

Take 15% OFF
any one,

Impressionistic style Original Painting or Print
by one of our supremely gifted artists
who paint in a similar style to the French impressionists,
such as:
world renowned master impressionist,

Marcos Blahove;

and the very talented - Tricia Burr, Sue Gouse,

or yours truly, Debbie Brady Robinson

Monday, Dec 15th, ONLY!
The 3rd day of Christmas!

Or... be the first to
find the partridge on a ? and
get the item the partridge is on for Free!
(hint:it's still not in a pear tree!)

Sat, the 1st Day of Christmas, winner - won an item valued at $10

: ( Sun, the 2nd Day of Christmas, No Winner- item value $24

Mon, the 3rd Day of Christmas - item value $35
Who'll be the 3rd Day of Christmas Winner?

Watch for specials every day throughout the
Twelve Days of Christmas -
Each Day, the Special gets A Little Brighter!

FREE PARKING THROUGH DECEMBER 30TH!
786-9386
www.atlanticbeacongallery.com

Tybee's Shop and Stroll was a BIG HIT!

2008-12-07T10:46:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, locals came out in full support of Tybee's island wide "Shop and Stroll"! Special thanks to eveyone who made the event such a great success! I appreciate our own

Atlantic Beacon Gallery artists; Tricia Smith Burr, Sue Gouse, and Jim Chirbas who created beautiful Art (plein-air style) at the easel while customers watched and enjoyed! The whole event was such a hit that we , at The Atlantic Beacon Gallery & Hall of Frames, have decided to extend the Sale and 20% discount

(on select Art, Gifts, & Shipping) through today, Sunday Dec. 07, 2008!

Thank you to everyone

who shopped and patronized Tybee's businesses!

“Over the bridge to Wally-World?”

2008-12-04T21:51:00.004-05:00

by Debbie Brady Robinson (first pubished in the "Tybee Breeze", Dec. 2008)

It’s that time again, the holidays roll around every year regardless of the economy. Most of us turn our thoughts to gifts for family and friends. This year, perhaps more than most, times are pretty lean. The stock market is down, and the cost of living is up, credit has tightened; what’s the answer. Many will make that well traveled path, over the bridge to… Wally-World! Yes, indeed, Wal-Mart, where our money ends up worlds away from our local economy! This year, why don’t we all make a concentrated effort to support our local businesses; let’s shop with our friends and neighbors, and keep our money at home!

How lucky are we to live in this tiny little island paradise; and yet be so totally self-sufficient! Tybee has nearly every convenience; our own grocery store, three gas station/convenience stores, thirty or so restaurants/places to eat and drink, four churches, our own school, a post office, a Bank, real estate & professional offices, a pharmacy, Doctor, Dentist, two liquor stores (Oops, I should have listed liquor store before Dentist; it’s a prerequisite isn’t it?) Just kidding Dr. Owen! We’ve got a baker, a barber, and a candle stick maker – if you’re wondering where, you haven’t shopped Tybee enough! There are Art Galleries, retail stores and gift shops, a custom frame shop, new Shipping and Packing Center, and so much more! Truth be told, there is actually very little on Tybee that we don’t have! And, if we want it to stay that way, we better all invest our dollars locally!

My husband, Mark, and I have made a personal commitment to try and support the local economy by patronizing our local businesses. When I shop for groceries, for instance, if Tybee Market doesn’t have it, we probably don’t need it! Every Tuesday we attempt to slip in a little “date day” time. It used to be dinner and a movie across the bridge, but rarely now do we dine off the island. When we do, we try to dine in establishments owned by our friends and neighbors!

Mark and I are definitely planning to “spread the wealth” on Tybee this holiday season; including every restaurant on the island, but to do that, we need your help. A challenge to all my friends in the restaurant business; you shop with me, and I’ll eat with you – and I’ve been doing a fair amount of “that”, lately! Purchase a new building just prior to a real estate bust, operate a retail business in a struggling economy, and suffer through menopause – and you’ll find yourself a very well-rounded person… just like the ‘Pillsbury Doughboy’! :)

Shop & Stroll on Tybee Time!

2008-12-03T22:18:00.005-05:00

It's Shop & Stroll this weekend!

Get ready for a great weekend on Tybee Island. Come on Out and get down~ get down to some serious Christmas Shopping... or, even for refreshements in between all that shopping. You know you're gonna work up and appetite! Need that special gift, here's your chance... Island style! Meet your favorite artist; pick up some great artwork, a painting or two, photography - Tybee's sunsets are breathtaking! Sea sculpture, and gifts of all kinds ~ right on Tybee Island. It's Shotp & Stroll ya'll, from one end of our tiny little island to the other! Pick up a piece of Art, or several prints, and select the perfect compliment in custom framing while your at it! Have it gift wrapped and shipped with a little note from Santa! From North to South, and East to West, our little 2 3/4 mile long, and 3/4 mile wide island paradise is going to be Santa's best helper this holiday season!

Ya'll come on out and join the fun~ 'cause nobody knows "Fun" like Tybee!

Shop & Stroll Official Announcement:

Shop & Stroll , and Campfire Roast Sat. Dec. 6th - 11am - 8pm
Grab our map and join Island businesses for refreshments, discounts, and free gifts!
Shop and Stroll to at least 5 locations to win fabulous prizes!

1. Each shopper will receive a Tybee Tally card upon visiting any participating merchant. Look for the signs!
2. Find the “coconut clue” in each location while enjoying free treats, gifts, and discounts. Have your tally stamped.
3. Enter your tally for prize drawings at Seaside Sisters. The more shops visited, the bigger the prize!
Drawings at 6pm

Enjoy roasting weenies, s’mores, and hot toddies around Doyle Landscaping’s cozy campfire starting at 4pm. Pick up a fresh cut tree while you’re there!

Music and twinkly lights will be everywhere
Deck the halls, y’all - Free Parking the month of December!

Pick up a map and Tybee Tally card at these Shop 'n Stroll participating businesses:

Atlantic Beacon Gallery
Beachside Realty
Benny's Tavern
The Gift Shack at the Crab Shack
Desoto Beach Bed and Breakfast & Desoto Beach Hotel
Doc's Bar
Dragonfly Studios
Doyle Landscaping
Fish Art
Gallery by the Sea
Hall of Frames Custom Framing & Shipping Center
High Tide Surf Shop
Irene Sullivan Gallery
Island Pottery
Latitude 32
MacElwee's Seafood House
Mogo Scooters
Ocean Plaza
Seaside Sisters
Sandy's by the Shore
Sting Ray's Seafood
Treasure Trove
Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Tybee Vacation Rentals
Wallybug!

We all Hope to See You There!

Watch us on the Savory Coast

2008-11-30T11:55:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful Holiday Open House, at our third Annual Holiday Extravaganza!
Thank you to all of those who came out to share in the fun . We had a full house; so many great friends came out in support! Don't worry, if you missed the show, you can see it on the "Savory Coast", and find out just what all the 'Buzz" is about! We have lots of goodies created by our 100 supremely talented artists; and many special sale gift items, too!

Watch us on the "Savory Coast", or view it now on your computer - just click on this link:www.synergyadpro.com/MOVIEREVIEW/ATLBEACGALL.mov

"The Savory Coast", seen on WSAV the local NBC affilitate, was on location filming! Special thanks to Bonnie Nesbitt, and Joan Schaaf. They were interviewed, on the spot with zero prior notice, by the Savory Coast. I can't express how appreciative I am for their wonderful comments! I must also thank Ritajane Eilchelzer, my right-hand extrodinaire - they took her by surprise, too! Kathy Strong, was hard at work in the frame shop when they snuck in the camera on her - I'm not even sure that Kathy knew she was on candid camera! Custom Framer, my husband, Mark Robinson was missing in action from the filming. I know he was hiding, he didn't want to appear on TV. I don't know why, he is a handsome devil, that man of mine! Thanks too, to the rest of our great staff who helped to make the evening such a great success; Valerie Beudreau, Charles Burel, Linda Cox, Denise Crais, & Chelsea Elliott!

And, of course, there would have been no event at all without our wonderful Artists!

To name just a few: Fred & Melinda Urvant - Fred with his great photographs (hopefully, Melinda will have some work ready for our March show!); Kathy Strong who is a great all around artist - (can't wait to see some of that new sculpture, Kathy!); Joey Aldredge Burel - Wow, Joey has been blowing us away for quite some time with her painted pottery, but you are not going to believe how fabulous her paintings are! Tad Tyhi, in addition to his beautiful oil paintings, out did himself with his fabulous new plen-air water color paintings of three houses on the beach. Come and see if your house is in the painting! Thank you to everyone who was able to make it out for the show! Marcos Blahove's stunning new Beach scene in oil (with the dog on the beach), delighted all! And his nude, is too exquisite to describe! Chelsea Elliott's painted wine glasses, and ornaments were perfect for the evenings event; and wait until you see her "Crab Dip" painting that was chosen for the winter cover of "Where to Eat at the Beach"! Way to go Chelsea!!

I sure hope that I haven't forgotten anyone that made it out to the show. There are just so many great pieces of Art, created by so many more of our talented artists - there are just too many to describe! Come on out and see for yourself!

ATLANTIC BEACON GALLERY - VOTED #1

2008-10-29T23:01:00.003-04:00

The Atlantic Beacon Gallery,

Voted Best Art Gallery - 2008 BREEZY AWARDS!!

THANK YOU!!

"Staging", a new term for Artistic Flair!

2008-10-29T08:57:00.003-04:00

(as published in the Tybee Breeze, Nov 2008 issue)

“The Big Bang Theory!

By Debbie Brady Robinson

We’re all tightening our belts, poised for the saving graces promised by the next administration! Americans have either been to the polls, or will do so very shortly, depending on today’s date. Collectively trembling at the knees a wee bit more than we would prefer to admit, the majority of the American people are in a wait and see mode. What, pray tell, is the next four years going to bring us?

History repeats itself in many ways. Bank failures, Wall Street woes, and unstable global markets force introspection. Spawned by every down turn, vast changes are reflected in society. The resiliency of the American people becomes apparent; free enterprise spurs creativity. New industries blossom- alternative fuel sources, hybrid cars, and going green, to name a few. Properties stand vacant with For Sale signs speckling every neighborhood! Houses aren’t selling, and everyone needs an EDGE! It’s odd how things evolve; whole new industries spring up. The old adage “necessity is the mother of invention” was never more of a truism than today!

A few years ago, well before the current serious economic turn of events, yours truly (artist/writer) began performing quasi decorating/artistic arrangement services for local clients. This service involves going into a “For Sale” property, assessing what might be coined “Awe Appeal" (combination of curb appeal and interior pizzazz!), and formulating a ‘color palette’ makeover plan to give the client the most bang for his buck! This modern day ‘Big Bang Theory’ is typically achieved by #1, the effective utilization of the client’s existing furnishings (old stuff!); and #2, the addition of a minimum number of additional accents (new stuff!). Solely in an effort to set the stage for that all important WOW Factor!

Little did I realize that my career was already beginning to evolve as a natural sign of the times. Yours truly had unknowingly become engaged in the business of ‘Home Staging’! Until very recently, the term ‘Staging’ might have been mistaken for a term used only in the Theater. The Wikipedia defines ‘Home Staging’, as “the act of preparing a private residence prior to going up for sale in the real estate marketplace... Staging focuses on improving a property to make it appeal to the largest number of buyers by transforming it into a welcoming, appealing, and attractive product for sale”. The process of which, used to be achieved by ‘Artistic flair’, absent the title of interior decorator or designer!

Realizing that I had already been engaged in the profession of "Staging" for quite some time, I decided that I might as well go ahead and become certified – now that I was aware that there was indeed such a term! Ah, credentials… "Staging", one more line item on the old resume’! Artist, Artistic Flair, an eye for design… you’ve probably either got it, or you don’t! For instance, do not, under any circumstance, ask me to be a nurse – I faint at the mere mention of blood! Color, in any other form, now that’s a horse of a different … o.k., pardon the pun! So, if a certificate gives a little more comfort and confidence to a client, then so be it, “Certified Stager’ it is!

The wonderful thing about ‘Artistic Flair’, oops – I mean, “Staging” (regardless of the term) is that it’s great fun; and one gets to use all of the eggs in her artistic basket! My staff will be the first to attest that I, for one, constantly say; “if all I had to do was paint, be out front serving customers, and do displays (merchandising), I would be thrilled!” Staging allows me to incorporate all of the aspects of my job that I most enjoy; and it’s usually quite fast - I’m generally in and out within a matter of days!

Recently, I swapped out furnishings between all the rooms in a house, changed the color of a few existing accent pieces, through up a quick mural on an existing wall for a splash of color, painted a couple of pieces of old furniture, and tied everything together within three days! The total client out of pocket expense for the “new” objects purchased (fee withstanding of course) was less than $100! Now, don’t forget to read the fine print.. Not all cases are the same, prices may vary, can’t guarantee identical results… just kidding - the whole process of ‘Staging’ is really pretty painless! Viva La Artistic Flair!

We're Down to the Wire

2008-10-17T09:58:00.004-04:00

This is it, the big weekend - October 18th & 19th; the 12th anual Tybee Festival of the Arts! I've got one more painting to complete for the show; and I'm sure that I'm not alone! Come on out and join us on the Tybee Pier and Pavilion. There will be lots of us there - artists of every kind; painters, potters, gourd arists, basket weavers, jewelers, photographers and more! You name it, and I'm sure you'll find it this weekend on Tybee. Come on out and enjoy the fun!

Hope to see you there!
Debbie

Tybee Festival of the Arts is this weekend & Hall of Frames will Ship your Treasures!

2008-10-15T09:25:00.008-04:00

"On With the Show...."

by Debbie Brady Robinson

I'm taking a momentary break from my paint brush for a moment to sip a cup of coffee, and update my blog. Well the Pirate's Fest weekend is over; and what a terrible disappointment for all of those who tired so diligently to put it all together. My husband and I joined friends up in the mountains this past weekend, missing the The Pirate Fest, and rains that susbsequently extinquished the excitement. I felt guilty for leaving but, in retrospect, am glad that we were away. I would rather remember great times with dear friends than a poor Festival on Tybee. Business was far from great, but it certainly could have been much worse from a sales perspective. I give thanks for small blessings.

The "Tybee Fest" committee works all year long to make the weekend a success for all of us who own and operate local businesses on the island. It has become one of those "shoulder season" weekends which we have all come to count on to boost sales coming of the busy summer season. My heart goes out to all of those on the committee; and I commisserate along with all of my fellow buisness owners.

Now we turn our minds and energy toward the next big island event, the 12th Annual Tybee Festival of the Arts! We arists, are creating around the clock to prepare for this coming weekend's show on the Tybee Pavilion. Come on out and join us, and see just what our collective creative juices are serving up this year! Christmas is just around the corner! And, don't worry about shipping this year. Hall of Frames is now your local packaging and shipping center. Mark and staff are all geared up to package and ship Anywhere. And if your purchase comes from the Atlantic Beacon Gallery, we'll even gift wrap it for you at no extra charge. And, as always, we promise... SERVICE WITH A SMILE :)

Ya'll come on out now, where your flip flops, and stay awhile!!

" Pirate Fest 2008" Lmt Edition Prints now available!

2008-10-07T13:30:00.000-04:00

" Pirate Fest - 2008 "

Painted by the 2006 Pirate Queen, herself -

artist, Debbie Brady Robinson,

"Pirate Fest 2008" is Debbie's latest limited edition release; and newest of her "Pirate Fest" series. Each, of the 100 prints, is numbered and personally signed by Debbie. Now available for sale at the very Special Pirate Fest Rate of $20; reserve your low numbered print today for your favorite Swashbuckler!

Drop by, or contact the Atlantic Beacon Gallery; 912 786-9386, atlanticbeacon@aol.com, or visit us on the web: http://www.atlanticbeacongallery.com/

Shiver me Timbres, The Pirates Are Coming!

2008-10-07T13:05:00.000-04:00

By Debbie Brady Robinson (first published in the "Tybee Breeze", Oct 2008)

Ahoy, me Hearties! “Hoist yer colors, ye salty buccaneers - the Pirates are comin’, and time's a runnin’ out! The 4th Annual Pirate Fest is comin’ Oct 10th - 11th and the hornswagglen lot soon’ll be invadin’ the island! Man ye Crows Nest, and keep ye sharp eye out for ‘em Swashbucklers tryin’ to slither past them alligators to the entrance! And I’m not talkin’ ‘bout them orange bilge-suckin’ kinda gators, up from Florida - but ye razor sharp toothed kind with hides fit fer ye best pair o boots! The Scurvy Dogs be a tryin to sneak past the gators through the back door by way o the Crabshack! Thar aimin’ to have a Buccaneer Ball and coronation of thar King & Queen on Thursday, Oct 9th (on the eve of destruction), from 6-10 PM!
Leadin’ the invasion, on Friday the 10th, at 6PM, by the long plank of the Tybee Pier, will be the the King of the Swashbucklers’ emself, none other than our head honcho, hog ridin’, swashbucklin’, Tybee’s own, King James, and top cop emself - chief, Jimmy Price! Whether he’s ridin’ in town on his “Hog”, or walkin’ ye down the plank, he’s a swashbuklin’ Tybee Salty Dog from way back! He’ll be lead’n the pack ‘long wit his Krewe of maraudin’ buccaneers and his saucy li’l Queen o’ the wenches, Natalie Gordon, by his side! King & Queen will be riden’ high durin’ the Pirate Parade on Sat. Oct 11th startin’ at 3pm!
Queen Natalie, will be right in her element, decked to the hilt, from the top of her boostia to the bottom of her boots! Natalie, along with husband Mel, owns and operates the Atlantis Inn (an inn for the imagination); and as top wench, she’s right in sync with the romantic themed rooms of the Atlantis Inn! “I just love to play dress-up!”, laughed Natalie. “I was ecstatic to be asked to be the Queen, but - I said, ‘are you sure you’ve got the right person?’ To be included in the same company as ‘you’ former Queens; (yours truly, 2006), Jenny Orr (2005), and Bonnie Gaster (2007), all former Pirate Queens – “you each have really Tybee roots; and you all reflect such great community spirit,” exclaimed Natalie! I’m just proud to have been asked, and to be in such good company”! I’m shocked, I’ve only been on Tybee for nine years!
Active in TAPS (community theater), Tie the Knot on Tybee, Tybee Tourism Council, and Tybee Fest to name a few - this year’s Queen is certainly no slouch where the Spirit of Tybee is concerned! Natalie owned and operated Sea Strands hair salon for a few years; and she and Mel have owned the Atlantis Inn, on the south end of the island since 2005. “Before the Inn, we used to buy up old Tybee cottages and restore them.” said Natalie. “We love keeping the community spirit and charm of Tybee alive!” The Atlantis is located in what was the old Beach Comber Motel. “Every time Mel and I used to drive by that building, he would say, ‘that would make a great themed type Inn’. One day, Mel came home and said, ‘I put in an offer on the Beach Comber building, and we now own it!’” After I picked my stomach up off the floor, the idea began to really grow on me”, professed Natalie! “We, especially Mel, have had a great time in Community Theater on the island; and as I said, ‘I just love to play dress-up’, so the Inn was a great way to let our artistic juices flow! We’ve had a great time coming up with idea, and decorating each of our twelve themed rooms!”
Pirates Fest is “one of the biggest events on Tybee”, said Jimmy Price. We’ve never had any problems; it’s a good safe parade! “The great thing about the Pirate Fest Parade is that it’s family oriented!” No doubt, his little wench on the side (of nearly three decades) wife Claire, who is a wiz on a sewing machine, will be whipping up a fine costume for the chief Swashbuckler, and whole entourage of children and grands! “It’s just fun for all ages”, said Jimmy! “After all, Arghhhh - everybody wants to be a pirate at one time or another! I remember wanting to be one myself, way back in the day; Long John Silver and Jim Hawkins - Treasure Island, wow that was really great! Now, after all these years, weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen; here I am… Argh, King of the Pirates!” laughed Tybee’s top cop! “I’ve only got one message for all the lads, lassie’s and buccaneers who’ll be stormin’ the island for the fun and festivities; “ have a great time, don’t lose yer head… and Be Safe out thar Ye Mate'ys!

"Off the Rack -vs- Tailor Made"

2008-04-25T21:35:00.000-04:00

(first printed in the Tybee Breeze, April 2008)

by Debbie Brady Robinson

“Eek, don’t use the ‘d’ word. We hate deadlines. We hate them a lot“, words recently cited in an artist‘s blog! Most, especially we "artistic types", all feel the same: the mere mention of the “d” word, often results in a knot in the stomach, a head ache - and oh, sooooooo much pressure! And yet, hate it as we do, some can’t get a thing done without those insidious looming dates! What’s the matter with me - uhmn, uh... I mean them!

The truth is, artistc endeavor in its purest sense can be sheer ecstasy - that is, when one is free to create with abandon and without expectation! It's a great feeling to create whatever comes to mind for the pure enjoyment of it, and then to simply hang the finished piece directly on the gallery wall! It is truly exhilarating to create only what you desire to do, not what you HAVE to do! I dare say, that specific feeling is the entire reason that most become Artists in the first place! When an artist is totally submerged in the act of creating, minus the pressure of meeting a delivery deadline, one is (reportedly) "more likely to persist, feel good about oneself, and be the most creative...!"

The urge to create with abandon - for the sheer pleasure of it, is lost when the "Have to" factor is added to the mix - at least in the short run. It's the act of getting started on a "deadline piece" that is so difficult for most of us. Not unlike the writing of this article, (surprise, I'm smack dab up against deadline), once we actually begin the process the dread falls away. The creative juices begin to flow, and the fun of it takes over! So then, why is it so difficult to get started you ask? BECAUSE, igniting one's 'deadline motivation factor’ is much like trying to muster up enough courage to plunge oneself directly into the cold waters of the North Pacific, in January - Brrrrrrrrrr!

Why then, do you think, that many artists are reluctant to accept commissions in the first place? The money is generally considerably more than if a piece is purchased directly off a gallery wall - most Art patrons understand the difference between "off the rack -vs- tailor made"! Art Buyers typically expect to pay more for commissioned work! Why then, aren't all we artists just "koo-koo for cocoa pops" over commissions - Well, we are and we aren't! Artists, traditionally have a love-hate relationship with commissions; we are honored and excited to be asked (commissioned), but feel pressured when it comes to the act of doing (delivering)! Not to mention that old truism, ‘ Life gets in the way when you’re making plans…'

Life often gets in the way of deadlines, that's just the way it is. Injury or illness of oneself or others, caretaking of family (among many) obligations often puts the prolific Artist way behind schedule, adding pressure onto pressure! When things begin to stack up, and a multitude of deadlines are past due, the frustration can become enormous! Your desire is to deliver a sensational piece of work to everyone, and (((RIGHT NOW)))! The problem is, that's an impossible task! Too many other factors stifle the flow, and you suddenly find yourself direclty behind the eight ball! How do you decide, at this point, what to put on the front burner? Does the squeaky wheel get the oil - probably. Does the end product suffer - perhaps. Do you pull your hair out, and turn into "the artful dodger" upon seeing your commission clients - absolutely! I recently heard a very well known creative type, for whom I hold great respect, expressing similiar frustration. I would divulge her name, but I haven't cleared it with her and since it is now 12:30 AM, post deadline, the suspense will have to wait! Clearly exasperated, yet barely audible, "I take on too much, I'm just way too busy", she declared. "I can't get all of my projects done on time, and everyone is pressuring me! I've been told it's because I'm not charging enough!" Well, 'by George, I think she's got it!' Uh, huh - 'off the rack versus tailor made'; such revelation is cause for celebration! Pour me a martini, please - shaken, not stirred!

It’s Black & Blue Ribbon Time Again!

2008-02-08T07:13:00.000-05:00

A & E Tidings, You Heard it in the Breeze, by Debbie Brady Robinson
( as published in the 'Tybee Breeze', Feb. 2008 issue)

It’s Black & Blue Ribbon Time Again!
A few years ago, I wrote an article regarding the “friendly” nature of Tybee - more specifically, we islanders and the consequential spreading of those very “unfriendly” little germs that are so prevalent this time of year. Well, it’s dejavoux all over again! My husband, Mark, came down with a nasty cold, bug, influenza, virus (or whatever one might choose to call it) on January 1st 2008 - Happy New Year (yeah, rightL)! Echoing the very sympathetic voice of my right-hand extraordinaire, Ritajane, let me just say, Awe... I reiterate, in my most pathetic voice, Awe… my poor “Babe” has been sick - and now…, barely into the new year, so am I ! Awe…@#*&#%, crap!

There is no question about it; Tybee is just a friendly kind of place, embracing everyone, and every cause! Our tiny little 2 ¾ by ¾ of a mile island is essentially a neighborhood surrounded by water. To say that “Tybee takes care of its own”, is truly an understatement! Tybee, collectively comes to the aid of those in need. Recalling just a few recent cases in point: The Mike Hobb’s cancer benefit was a resounding success, for one! Great job Jack and Belinda Flanigan, Virginia Ward, all the folks at the Crab Shack ,and a multitude of other great folks who were equally involved! It sounds as though lots of great things are happening to help Hobbs!

For those who are here, and those who are gone - the American Legion stands ready, as solid and dependable as The Rock of Gibraltar. How many of us have experienced comfort and peace of mind from the gathering of friends and family at the American Legion, for a final farewell to a loved one. Words are not enough to express our gratitude and praise to Commander Gene Kindrick, and wife Wanda (aka: the Dynamic Duo), and all of our amazing friends who make up Tybee’s wonderful American Legion Post 154!

“It’s a Tybee Thing“, time and time again, Tybee is there for support in so many ways. Kudos to all the folks who came to the aid last year of two businesses victimized by fire; Hucapoos, and Café Loco. Supported by many, and spear-headed by Clair Price and Saturday Martini (aka: Sundi Marino) - ‘Hucapoos’ is back in business and going strong - serving up those bites and booze! Likewise, many came to the aid of Café Loco. Quick to organize were Christy Alan and Jenny Orr, Fannies on the Beach, and many, many, more who came together to help Joel and his crew - have you seen those new decks with the million dollar views? (‘Down front’, to the Backside of the island - Key West has nothing on us, ya’ll!) And in turn, most of the folks assisted have come to the aid of others. Tybee is famous for, to use a modern cliché, “paying it forward” in one form or fashion. In fact, Joel Solomon was just spotted cleaning up the road & brush from Hwy 80 all the way back to Café Loco, aiding the whole Maritime Community at Lazaretto Creek - Way to go, Joel!

There is always a gathering for cause or fun on our little island. It’s simply inevitable that we’re going to bump into friends nearly everywhere we go… but do we have to be quite so friendly, especially during the “flu season! All of those, oh so friendly, encounters predictably lead to the warm embrace! Growing up on Tybee a hug and a kiss was the natural form of greeting. No one ever thought a thing about a little peck on the cheek or even on the lips for that matter. Only on Tybee can I recall someone (other than my husband) greeting me with a kiss on the lips! Tybee has always been a world unto itself. Today, as in years past, many still greet one another with that little kiss, or at the very least - a warm embrace!

I’ve said it before, greeting a Tybee friend with a heart-felt embrace is an automatic and often irresistible response. Unfortunately, welcoming a friend with a great big bear hug (Lord forbid a kiss) only to quickly recoil after learning that they’ve been stricken with a nasty cold or flu bug, is too little too late! Faster than the speed of light, those little flu buggers hop right on and begin to infiltrate their way up your nostrils, making a mad dash through your entire immune system, finally settling themselves deeply into your soft snuggly lungs - nestling down for a long winters nap! The next thing you know you awaken to find yourself sniffling, sneezing, and (once again) resembling ‘Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer’ - (((Ah Choo))) !
Remember that little visual aid - the symbol, the virtual stop sign - the one that yours truly created a few years ago? (Judy O’Neil, do you still have yours? Does this ->L , ring any bells?) That little something to alert us - to halt us in our tracks before we hug that contagious friend. You Remember… that little ribbon to warn our friends when we‘re inflicted with that (((CONTAGIOUS BUG)))! We express ourselves by saying we feel black and blue all over when we’re sick. So, let’s all use a black and blue ribbon to alert others! “Black & Blue to Stop the Flu!” O.K, penicillin it‘s not, but it can‘t hurt! Come on, let’s all tie one on, “Black & Blue to Stop the Flu”! When you get that sneezy, caughy, achy feeling, just tie a black and blue ribbon around a Q-tip!
(((I’m Serious)))… pin that little bugger to your lapel, and wear it proudly! Remember, Tybee takes care of its own - so save a friend, wear Black & Blue to Stop the Flu!

"tie a little ribbon ‘round the old Q-tip..."(…uh, better make that a NEW Q-tip!)