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Derek Redwine is not your typical marine artist. His work is a testament to the captivating marriage of chaos and order that takes place on his canvas. With a career spanning over 30 years, Derek has carved a niche for himself in the world of marine art through his distinctive and unconventional style.
One cannot help but notice the common theme of chaos and order that runs through Derek’s art. He describes his creative process as a journey where he starts with something beautiful but then, almost instinctively, sabotages it. Splashing paint, creating bulky paint strokes, or spray painting over his creations – there’s always something that disrupts the tranquility of his initial vision. He often wonders if he is intentionally trying to create something he has never seen before. This dance between chaos and order in his art is what sets Derek apart.
Derek’s love for the marine world began during his childhood in Florida. Growing up, he experienced the thrill of chasing fish in the clear waters of Florida’s coastline. From inshore fishing to pursuing pelagic and bottom fish offshore, Derek’s early years were marked by an unbridled passion for the outdoors, particularly surfing and fishing. While he enjoyed spearfishing and diving in the pristine waters of the Florida Keys and the Bahamas, it was the act of catching and studying fish that truly captured his heart.
In his early twenties, Derek transitioned into a career in the fishing industry. He started as a mate on several charter party boats, gaining valuable experience in bottom fishing and commercial fishing for species like grouper, snapper, amberjack, and kingfish. However, it wasn’t just the fishing that fueled his passion; it was his innate creativity that drove him.
Derek’s creative spirit found expression in the form of art. He began painting on wood found offshore or on the beach during surfing expeditions. During those times when they couldn’t get offshore for weeks, Captain Pat Stone would accompany him to local restaurants, peddling his handcrafted fish art. This venture also led to him designing logos, brands, t-shirts and tattoos for fellow fishing enthusiasts.
In his late teens, Derek sold his first piece of marine art, marking the official start of his journey as a professional artist. Later, together with his wife Cory Redwine, they founded BoldWater in Port Canaveral. Their most cherished creation, however, is their son Alden Redwine.
Derek’s journey as a marine artist has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the years, he has worked with industry giants such as Aftco, Pelagic, Hell’s Bay Boatworks, IGFA, Jose Wejebe, Carter Andrews, and BD Outdoors. His artistic style, characterized by its chaotic and impactful nature, is far from the conventional pretty scenes. Instead, he brings out the drama in his art, making it stand out and leave a lasting impression on viewers.
In recent years, Derek has been actively involved in giving back to the marine world that has inspired his art. He creates original paintings of marine species and collaborates with various conservation and restoration groups. These paintings serve as powerful tools to raise awareness and funds for initiatives aimed at rebuilding waterways and cleaning oceans. Derek’s commitment to conservation goes beyond his art. He dedicates his time and energy to environmental waterway issues, working alongside his wife, Cory, who serves as the conservation director at Star Brite. Together, they strive to make a positive impact on the state’s waterways.
Derek Redwine’s artistic journey is a remarkable tale of creativity, passion, and commitment. His unconventional approach to marine art, blending chaos and order, has made him a celebrated figure in the marine art community. Beyond his art, Derek’s dedication to conservation and environmental stewardship is an inspiration to all.
As Derek continues to challenge himself creatively and champion conservation efforts, his legacy as a marine artist with a purpose will only grow stronger. His art serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our marine ecosystems, prompting us all to take action in preserving the waters we love so dearly.
The future is bright for Derek Redwine, and we eagerly anticipate the captivating artworks and conservation initiatives that he will bring to life in the years to come. He is an artist dedicated to making a positive change through creativity and imagination, and his impact on the art world and environmental preservation is undeniable.
