Charleston seems to churn out the young talented artists and I have discovered another one to know. 

 I am amazed by the diverse portfolios that abound from this area.

Enjoy getting to know the whimsical work of

Sally Bunting

Charleston, South Carolina

 

What is your training?

 I graduated from College of Charleston with a double major in International Business and Arts Management along with a double minor in International Studies and Studio Art.

What inspires you and your designs?

I would say that I’m inspired most by my travels. I feel that there is always something new I learn about myself every time I’m able to take a trip somewhere and I love incorporating that into my work. I’m also inspired by my everyday surroundings. I love being outside as much as possible and I’m obviously obsessed with all sorts of animals. I love bee bopping around town and seeing tons of different designs and color schemes in everyday scenes such as stores, restaurants, parks, buildings, etc. Lighting, bright colors, and quirky/fun patterns and objects are always things I look for and gravitate towards. People are a huge influence on my artwork too. I love meeting and interacting with new people and I usually name my pieces after someone who has made an impact on my life in some way shape or form. 

 What is your favorite piece?

 I feel a special connection to each piece that I create, but Carmella the Cow is really the leader of the pack.

How has the your area influenced your work?

 Charleston has an infectious influence on my artwork. I’m constantly surrounded by so many creatives down here (other artists, graphic designers, fashion designers, photographers, etc.) that jolt inspiration for me on a daily basis. I interned for Lulie Wallace during my last semester of college, and it was through her and all of the other amazing artists at Redux Contemporary Art Center that I learned how important it is to be a part of a creative community. Aside from Redux and its artists, the history and colors that surround Charleston are the things that intrigue me the most about the city.

What is your favorite restaurant in Charleston?

 That’s a really tough question, because all of the food is amazing in Charleston! I would probably say Leon’s Oyster Shop. I love the vintage vibes of the restaurant and their brussel sprouts are to die for!

What is your favorite cocktail?

 Bourbon and ginger is always my go-to if I’m not sipping on Revelry’s Funkmaster Brett IPA.

How do you balance personal life and work?

One of my life mottos is, “work hard, play hard, and be nice” and I think I’ve done a pretty good job at living up to that statement. I put everything into my work and I push to excel myself as much as possible. My relationships with friends and family are extremely important to me and they are definitely something that influences and encourages my work on a day-to-day basis. My fiancé is a Construction Manager and is the handiest of all handymen. He makes the wood panels for my artwork. It’s been a lot of fun to have him supporting and working alongside me throughout this art venture. As an artist, you are focusing a lot on yourself and basically being your own boss babe. I feel that my work life can coincide a lot with my personal life, because I’m doing what I love and I’m being influenced by the ones/things I love. The best way to balance the two is to live in the present and know when to take a break and “unplug” from this technology driven world.

Dream trip?

 I would love to go back to Thailand and explore more of Southeast Asia.

I also really want to go on a safari in Africa to see all of the beautiful, exotic animals.

Dream commission?

 My dream commission would be to do a portrait or a commission piece for a US President. I think it would be challenging and exhilarating, and I love the idea of giving a pop of color to The White House!

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

You can never go wrong with a good bottle of red wine in my opinion.

I like to throw in a set of funny cocktail napkins too for a good conversation starter.

Who is your style icon?

  Stevie Nicks

and Blake Lively

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Miles Purvis

 What is your most treasured possession?

My teddy bear (aka Butter Bear) that I received the day I was born from my grandmother’s best friend. He went everywhere with me growing up and he’s still kicking it today at my house. #kidatheart

What are you reading?

 I’m finally getting around to reading, “Go Set a Watchman” by Harper Lee.

What are you listening to?

Grace Potter,

Liz Longley, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Hootie and the Blowfish, Yelawolf, Lady Leshurr, The Allman Brothers Band, Johnny Cash, The Rolling Stones

What are your favorite blogs / publications?

SnoopNatty Nat,

Sweet Southern Prep,

and Hanging with the Hewitts

A look at Sally’s fun portfolio:

Be sure to follow Sally on her website and Instagram.

Shop my existing Gift Guides for loads of holiday ideas:

2016 Gift Guide for The Little Ones 

2016 Gift Guide for the Tween / Teen

2016 Gift Guide for Me

2016 Gift Guide for Her

2016 Gift Guide for Him

2016 Gift Guide for the Hostess / Host

2016 Gift Guide for the Home