A fresh chapter of artistic expression is unfolding at South Seas, the 330-acre coastal resort at the north end of Captiva Island, featuring a series of coastal-inspired murals that capture the essence of the Gulf-side sanctuary.<\/p>\n
Created by local muralist Alex Bustamante, the murals are part of a fresh visual narrative as the resort introduces new and refreshed amenities throughout the property. Reflective of the resort and the natural habitat throughout, the nature-inspired murals depict the beauty of the beaches, mangroves, sunsets and wildlife that are part of the identity of South Seas and the immersive guest experience.<\/p>\n
A professional muralist by trade, Bustamante is known for her immersive works that capture nature and color. She says her artistic process starts by doing her research and getting a good feel for the environment she\u2019s trying to depict.<\/p>\n
Bustamante\u2019s first of thirteen commissioned murals being created throughout the resort was completed at South Seas Spirits, which offers high-end liquors, wines, beers and mixers at The Shops at South Seas. The spirits store opened in the spring, conveniently located to enhance the island experience for South Seas guests, as well as visitors to Captiva Island. Located just inside the shop\u2019s doors, the mural captures the dreamy scene of a message in a bottle washing up onto the sandy shores of Captiva, backlit by one of the island\u2019s iconic sunsets.<\/p>\n
\u201cI usually paint whatever the client wants, but there\u2019s many times that they say, \u2018This is your canvas, do whatever you want\u2019 and I really enjoy that,\u201d Bustamante said. \u201cThat\u2019s where you will see a mix of maybe an animal and the tropical plants and flowers and bright colors.\u201d<\/p>\n
Since that first mural, South Seas has asked Bustamante to create twelve additional murals throughout the resort. Nearest the resort entrance at Captiva Landing, the resort\u2019s new water amenity set to open later this year, is a series of ten murals inspired by nostalgic postcards. Additionally, she brings some of the region\u2019s favorite sea creatures to life with a vibrant mural featuring sea turtles, dolphin, seashells and coral inside the new Camptiva kids\u2019 club, coming soon to Captiva Landing. At Harborside restaurant, Bustamante captured some of the beloved local wildlife \u2013 a mother and baby manatee, representing frequent visitors to the marinas at South Seas.<\/p>\n
A massive project like this has given Bustamante a sense of pride in her work, which started after she was laid off from her job at a creative agency.<\/p>\n
\u201cI was just doing it on the weekends, you know, more like a side thing,\u201d Bustamante said. \u201cWhen Hurricane Ian hit, I was laid off, so I thought \u2018Okay, I\u2019m going to try to do my own thing and focus on my art.\u2019 I started a business and the murals are just what really took off.\u201d<\/p>\n
Just as South Seas has been an iconic destination on the island for generations, Bustamante hopes the art she\u2019s created there will leave a lasting impression as well.<\/p>\n
\u201cBeing a local artist, this is your playground and also where I work, so it\u2019s where I spend most of my time,\u201d she said. \u201cI just love being able to have my art here \u2014 to contribute to the rebuilding of the island \u2014 that\u2019s special.\u201d<\/p>\n
For more information about South Seas\u2019 offerings, visit\u00a0SouthSeas.com<\/a>, call 800-237-6000 or follow the resort on Facebook at\u00a0@SouthSeasResort<\/a>\u00a0and Instagram at\u00a0@SouthSeasResort<\/a>.<\/p>\n About South Seas<\/p>\n Presenting classic island charm, the 330-acre South Seas is nestled among mangroves with more than half of the resort a dedicated wildlife preserve and estuary. Outstanding golf, famed fishing, boating, yachting and discovering storied barrier islands, flavorful dining and memorable island adventures are among the unforgettable experiences of a South Seas guest. The resort has been a cherished destination for more than 75 years. As a new chapter begins, one that has been inspired by the many past generations of guests and thoughtfully recast for the future South Seas is dedicated to delivering a resilient, world-class resort.\u00a0SouthSeas.com<\/a><\/p>\n \t\t\t\t