There are lots of reasons for moving to Ocean Springs, MS. And if you’re already thinking about it, aside from looking for perfect waterfront homes or condos that are for sale in the area, it also pays off if you take some time in getting to know a little bit more about the town.
Live oaks line the streets around galleries and shops in one of the “happiest seaside towns” of 2015 according to Coastal Living. The “gem” of the south, Ocean Springs is home to a variety of Galleries, Festivals and art history that make Annette McConnell Anderson’s legacy and philosophy stay alive. “If all human beings surround themselves with beauty the world will become a more beautiful place.”
Shearwater Pottery
Established in 1928 by Peter Anderson, Shearwater Pottery. His two younger brothers joined him and together they created pottery molds that are used in the business to this day. Castware and decorated underglaze ware, the pieces are still created individually with the techniques and fundamentals that have passed down for several generations.
It is a family-owned business to this day and in order to purchase the outstanding pottery, you must visit the showroom in Ocean Springs. It is the only place that you can purchase pottery retail. The annex, kilns, and showroom were all replaced after Hurricane Katrina and Shearwater is back in it’ original location producing art pottery, utilitarian ware, figurines, decorative tiles and other pottery pieces. The earthenware is functional as well as decorative and the beautiful pieces are dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe. Everyday art.
Shearwater is located on Shearwater Drive and open seven days a week.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art
The museum dedicated to Peter Andersons younger brother Walter, opened in 1991. Walter’s depiction of Gulf Coast flora and fauna, and his American Modernist artwork are haled throughout the art world. The Ocean Springs Community Center is home to 3,000 square feet of Walter’s murals. According to Gulf Live “The murals are the jewel of downtown Ocean Springs and a great asset to the City.”
“In order to realize the beauty of man we must realize his relation to nature,” wrote Anderson. The cathedral-like building is located on Washington Avenue and opened Monday – Saturday.
The Art House
A small red cottage on Cash Alley, the Art House is an art Co-op offering the paintings, handcrafted jewelry, stained glass, photography, and many other mediums of local artisans. Artists featured must apply to become part of the co-op and their works must be selected by the standard committee. Opened Monday thru Saturday, you may well get the chance to meet one of the artists in one of the seven rooms that encompass the cottage.
Moran’s Art Studio
Relocated to Bienville Blvd. in Ocean Springs from Biloxi after Hurricane Katrina, Moran’s art studio showcases the art of Joe, Tommy and Mary Moran as well as the artistic framing of Cindy. While the patriarch of the family has passed away, many of the boats, nautical, and area rich paintings of Joe are available for canvas transfer. The studio is opened Monday thru Saturday.
The Pink Rooster
Linda Rosetti opened the Pink Rooster to honor her father. Paintings in oil, acrylic and watercolor, as well as jewelry, pottery, apparel, and glass art are all available from local artists at the gallery on Washington Avenue. Featuring an artist of the month as well as workshops, contact the gallery to visit or visit their website for more information.
The Ocean Springs Art Association
Opened in 1971 by a small group of artists that wanted to share ideas, the Association has grown to provide education, inspiration, and advancement of its members. In 1974, OSAA assumed the task of restoring Walter Anderson’s murals at the community center and due to their diligence and talent, the murals are now valued at over 50 million dollars.
The Association offers workshops, monthly meetings and demonstrations, and art festivals. They sponsor the Art House Co Op and are partners with the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center of Arts and Education. They are located on Government Street and offer artists the opportunity to step outside of their selected medium and learn something new.
Ocean Springs art and culture scene is lasting and enduring. Many of the long-lasting art establishments, such as Shearwater Pottery and Biloxi’s Moran Gallery were threatened by Katrina, but the heart of Mississippi brought them back, better than before.
The art from the area is world-renowned and bringing some of it home for your collection is highly encouraged. For places to visit in Mississippi on the Gulf Coast, Ocean Springs will inspire your own creativity.
These are only few of the things that you can enjoy around the area. If you want to learn more about Ocean Springs and the available real estate properties around the area, don’t hesitate to give Owen & Co. Real Estate a call at (228) 822-9870 or send us a message through our email info@OwenAndCo.com. We’ll be glad to help you find the perfect waterfront homes and condos for sale in Ocean Springs, MS that will suit your taste as well as let you know more about what you can expect upon moving to this vibrant city.
