One of my favorite television shows as a kid and even as an adult was Gullah Gullah Island. As a child growing up in the Lowcountry, I held a special pride for this show and was proud to have a connection to it through my family and ancestors. And now as an adult, I have an absolute and unabashed obsession with Gullah Art and find myself overindulging in it any chance I get, which is easy since I live near a few art galleries.
Today, I am able to make the connection between a childhood memory and a present-day pleasure, through the work of Natalie Daise, a co-star from the series, Gullah Gullah Island a true Gullah Art Tastemaker. As a creative and master storyteller in many forms, Natalie Daise, based in the South Carolina coast, creates art that tells history through bold color and intricate detail. I am honored to share a few of her beautiful pieces below and hope you share images of your favorite art by using the hashtag #blacksouthernbelle
Natalie Daise: From Gullah Gullah Island to Gullah Art Tastemaker
“I am storyteller and an artist, a singer and an actor, and a lover of community. I am a committed optimist (it’s like my religion). I believe we are all creative and sometimes just need a little help manifesting it. I’m good at that. In addition to years of participating in the creative process and facilitating educational, creative and community building experiences, I also have an M.A. in Creativity Studies.”
I adore these pieces pairing the traditions of rice culture, sweetgrass baskets, and Gullah women. These would be perfect additions to a living room or office space for daily inspiration.
“I love blue paint. And collard greens. And brown skin. And the beauty and sacredness of our spirit that shines through our eyes. For more about my art and to purchase some of your own, go to NatalieDaiseArt.com”
As a former DC politico and South Carolina native and daughter of a Navy Veteran, Robert Smalls has a special place in my heart. This piece exudes a bold image of the ultimate Gullah Statesman.
Comments
Looks great! Where is the best place to buy a Gulla Basket?
Thanks
I am Gullah as well and I know what you are talkin’ bout!! Yes indeed there is a pride that I carry inside when I see Gullah Art or hear we sing’n or telling stories! Gullah, Gullah Island was a program I watched as an adult with my baby girl. My folks are from Estill, Hampton, Beaufort, and Charleston. When I saw your work I just had to stop and come to visit it! It is SOOOOOOO beautiful! I LOVED EVERYTHING YOU SHARED! Such gorgeous work. I am a painter and illustrator myself and I am always so happy to meet other artist and illustrators from Low Country! Please let us know when you are having another show. I would love to support.
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Estill hmmm do you know the Houston’s? On another note I love the art of Natalie Daise raised my dawtah on Gullah Gullah Island from the Island of Manhattan.