Custom Coastal Fish Art Commission for a Home in Cold Spring Harbor, NY

One of the things I love most about creating custom artwork is getting to work closely with clients to create something that feels personal to their home and story. This contemporary coastal artwork was commissioned by a client in Cold Spring Harbor, New York after she discovered my work on Instagram.

After a few emails back and forth discussing ideas, inspiration, and sizing, she shared that both she and her husband loved the work and wanted to commission a piece for their home. The final artwork measures 55”W x 36”H and was designed as a flowing fish

composition inspired by movement in nature and the feeling of a school of fish moving together through water.

Tailoring the Artwork to Its Environment

The artwork features hand-cut Capiz shells, mother of pearl veneer, and turquoise blue shell veneer layered onto a linen background. Before beginning the piece, I mailed physical veneer samples to the client so she could see the materials in person and make sure the colors would complement the interior of their home.

Because natural materials can shift depending on lighting and surroundings, this step is always important to me when creating custom coastal artwork commissions.

Each fish shape was individually hand cut and arranged one by one into a continuous flowing composition. I wanted the movement to feel organic and effortless, almost as if the fish were suspended in motion across the wall. The combination of the translucent Capiz shells with the deep turquoise shell veneer creates subtle contrast while still maintaining a soft and calming palette suited for a contemporary coastal interior.

The clean white frame keeps the focus on the texture, movement, and materiality of the piece while complementing the light coastal aesthetic of the home.

One of my favorite parts of creating shell art is how much the artwork changes throughout the day depending on the lighting. The natural shell materials reflect light differently from morning to evening, giving the piece a quiet sense of movement even when standing still.

The Artwork in Its Forever Home in Cold Spring Harbor, New York

This project was a reminder of how social media can create genuine connections. What started with an Instagram message turned into a meaningful custom commission and a piece that now lives in a beautiful home in Cold Spring Harbor.

If you are looking for custom coastal artwork, contemporary fish art, or handcrafted shell art for your home or interior design project, you can get in touch through my contact page to discuss a commission.