If you want to find a happy place, visit Creations By The Sea. This little studio is awash with one-of-a-kind, artistic creations – almost all with a feel-good, coastal theme.
“Bandon is my favorite place in the world.” claims Kim Bell, Owner of Creations By The Sea. “I love the Oregon coast, hence the coastal themes on most everything I do.”
Kim grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. Nine years ago, she and her husband John moved to Coquille, Oregon, to fulfill a dream. Kim says, “While growing up, John would come to fish in Bandon with his parents. He always wanted to retire here.” Although not yet retired, even better… they have been lucky enough to move here early!
The journey to open Creations By The Sea started in 2019 and culminated in opening her studio February 2021. Looking to turn her artwork hobby into a business, she started advertising her creations on Facebook and placing them in local stores in and around Coquille.
Much of her business came by word-of-mouth through happy customers. And, still does! Speaking about her creations, Kim explains, “Making these designs brings me pure joy.” She wishes the same for those who give them a home.
Her custom creations include epoxy items, plus a whole lot more. She makes window hangers, canvas art, lamps, river tables, surf boards, coasters, shot glasses and many other items. Items which include coastal-themed bottles with mini-lights in them.
Kim personally made all of the “Message In A Bottle” creations being hidden on Bandon’s beaches by the Bandon Bottle Faeries. Margaret Pounder, Bandon Chamber of Commerce CEO, says, “Our Bottle Faeries love Kim’s beautiful designs. She has worked hard fulfilling their bottle orders, and we are so grateful for her artistic talents.”
In addition to artwork for sale, Creations by the Sea hosts classes for “do-it-yourselfers.” The studio even takes custom orders, which have included such eclectic items as an electrical breaker box and fan blades! Anything to match your décor.
Kim’s studio also showcases local artists. You can find something new almost every day!
Creations By The Sea is located at 50372 Hwy 101, Bandon, and is open 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesdays through Sunday, closed Mondays. Cash, credit and EBT cards are welcome. For more information, call 541-217-0340 or visit the Creations By The Sea Facebook Page.
To learn more about the Bandon Bottle Fairies and Message in a Bottle, visit bandon.com/message-in-a-bottle.
