Home is Where the Art is (And Yes, We Love a Pun!)
In the market for some new art? Allow us to introduce you to Burgh Island’s brilliant Emma Carter Bromfield…
It’s universally acknowledged that ‘Devon is Heaven’ for artists, right? And, let’s be honest, the landscape and coastlines are pretty special.
It’s a view that Burgh Island Artist Emma Carter Bromfield would wholeheartedly agree with.
As one of Burgh Island's longest-standing residents (forty-seven years of family history no less), Emma finds her muse in the picturesque landmark in South Devon. With its rugged cliffs and sweeping sea views, this enchanting spot has been her artistic playground since childhood (rumour has it, she wielded a paintbrush before she knew how to write!)
And of course, nestled amidst it all is the unique Burgh Island Hotel, an iconic Art Deco retreat that’s long been synonymous with glamour and mystery (think serious Agatha Christie-style vibes; the author wrote two of her infamous detective novels here), a magnet attracting artists and creatives worldwide.
It’s here that you’ll find Emma as the Burgh Artist-In-Residence, where she interprets the island's wild beauty with her vibrant, emotive paintings that leave a lasting impression. Her paintings often feature her hallmark tranquil sunsets, dramatic skylines and turbulent waves. “I love to paint those fleeting moments we all crave—the sun-drenched days at the beach or those thrilling surf sessions,” Emma says. “It’s all about making memories and connecting with what truly matters.
Speaking of what also matters…
Selecting the perfect painting for your home has to be up there as one of life’s big procrastinations, so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to tease a few tips out of Emma to help you find “the one”.
First and foremost, she believes that art is not just decoration. “It’s about creating a connection that enhances your space,” she advises. We’re nodding and taking notes. Here’s what else Emma suggests thinking about before you invest in your next piece:
1/ Personal Connection: Look for a piece that reflects your journey or aspirations. Art can be a beautiful mirror of your life.
2/ Think about what draws you in: Is it the scene? The colours? Or maybe a special connection to a place?
3/ Colour Palette: Consider how the colours of a painting will complement your home. A splash of unexpected colour can really make a space pop!
4/ Size Matters: Think about where the painting will hang. A large piece can be a stunning focal point, while smaller ones can create a charming gallery vibe.
5/ Location, Location, Location: Different lighting can change the feel of a painting, so consider the space where it will live
Fancy joining the artistic adventure?
If you're itching to see Emma’s work up close, make your way across to The Burgh Island Hotel or The Pilchard Inn, where she’s showcasing a delightful boutique collection. And, if you’re feeling really inspired, don’t miss out on her exclusive Island Artist Experiences, where you can dive into Emma’s creative process and gain insights into her techniques.
Meanwhile, you can follow her artistic journey on social media – have fun using the hashtag #Burghislandartist
