Meet the artist
Hello, I'm Jewelyn
A Sanibel Island coastal artist bringing Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast beauty to life in original paintings, greeting cards, and coastal gifts
Jewelyn Drennan Sims
Sanibel Island Artist
My Story
I have been a full-time resident of Sanibel Island for over 12 years, although I have traveled many years to the gulf for restoration and relaxation. I've always been drawn to the ever-changing colors of the sea — the way turquoise fades to deep blue at the horizon, the warm glow of a Gulf Coast sunset, the delicate patterns left by waves in the sand.
I discovered my passion for painting in high school and also my other passion, helping other people. I became a registered nurse for over 36 years and it wasn't until Iater in life I began painting and creating my art as my way of capturing and sharing the magic of coastal island living. Every piece I create is an invitation to pause, breathe in the salt air, and feel the warmth of the sun on your face. My art is meant to bring joy and happiness to all.
Based on beautiful Sanibel Island, Florida, I paint from life and from the heart — translating the vibrant colors and peaceful energy of the Gulf Coast into original works that bring a little piece of paradise into your home.
What Inspires Me
The Gulf Waters
The ever-changing turquoise and blue of the Gulf of Mexico is my greatest muse.
Golden Hour Light
The warm, golden light of Florida sunsets transforms everything it touches into something magical.
Sanibel Shells
Sanibel is world-famous for its shells — their colors, patterns, and textures find their way into my work. I love finding the art in the shells, waves and random shoreline objects around the island.
Vibrant Color
Tropical flora, birds, wildlife and the bold colors of coastal life keep my palette bright and joyful.
My Creative Process
From sandy beach to studio
Explore & Observe
I spend time walking the beaches, watching the light shift across the water, and collecting shells and textures that inspire me. As do the wildlife found on this sanctuary island I call home, Sanibel.
Sketch & Plan
Back in the studio, I sketch compositions and experiment with color palettes that capture the mood and energy of what I've seen.
Paint & Create
Using acrylics, I layer colors and textures to bring the coastal scene to life on canvas or other mediums. I occasionally use glass, sea shells, pearls, beach remnants I find on my walks, along with resin to create other two dimensional art pieces. The love of seashells are fascinating to me. Occasionally, I will design and create art on shells, which then become a three dimensional art piece.
Share & Connect
Each finished piece finds its way to collectors who love the coastal area as much as I do — bringing a little Sanibel sunshine, joy and happiness into homes everywhere.
Let's Connect
Whether you're looking for an art piece for your home, a custom commission, or just want to say hello — I'd love to hear from you.