Sam Blount has a rare ability to transport viewers beneath the surface, revealing an underwater world that is at once powerful, peaceful, and profoundly beautiful. From intimate encounters with dolphins and close passes by sharks to hauntingly atmospheric wreck dives, his photography captures not only the extraordinary diversity of marine life but also the quiet relationship between humans and the ocean.

In an age where our lives are increasingly lived through screens, Bookworm Pottery offers something refreshingly simple: the chance to slow down, get your hands dirty, and create something meaningful. Tucked inside Wilmington's vibrant Cargo District, the cozy studio has become much more than a place to learn pottery—it has grown into a welcoming community where creativity, connection, and self-expression flourish. For owner Ashley Merklinger, pottery isn't just an art form;

Before Crafted Outpost became one of the Cargo District's most beloved destinations for handmade goods, it began with something far more personal: a desire to build a creative, connected life rooted in community. Founder Rachael Kinsey has woven together her backgrounds in design, art, yoga, and entrepreneurship to create more than a retail space—she has built a gathering place where local makers, meaningful craftsmanship, and human connection take center stage.

Some photographers take beautiful images—and then there are storytellers like Terrah Hoobler, who capture entire love stories in a single frame. With over two decades of experience, Terrah has become a trusted name in Coastal North Carolina’s wedding scene, celebrated for her ability to find raw, authentic emotion in even the smallest, in-between moments.

Standing at the intersection of design and fine art, Heidi-Lee Peach has spent a lifetime chasing beauty through color, light, and form. What began as a childhood passion—nurtured by a father who painted outdoors and a school principal who once framed her drawing—has evolved into a vibrant career as a painter whose work radiates joy and connection. After 15 years as a professional interior designer, Heidi-Lee has returned to her first love: the canvas.

In a thrilling literary turn, Wilmington, North Carolina's own Dr. Greg Player—better known to patients as a trusted family physician—is now making headlines for a very different kind of work: fiction. His debut medical thriller, The Enemy Within.

For this year's Cape Fear Living Photographer of the Year, that magic isn't just inspiration—it's his canvas. We caught up with this year's winner, Chandler Hatch to talk about sharks, stillness, shooting in Portugal, and why the Cape Fear coast continues to call him back

For Chris Bloom, painting is more than a creative pursuit—it’s a deeply personal language, one spoken in color, texture, and form. With every brushstroke, she invites viewers into a world shaped by curiosity, optimism, and a relentless dedication to craft.

For Pappy Khouri, the moment he picked up a paintbrush was more than just a creative impulse—it was the beginning of a journey that would span over a decade of growth, exploration, and discovery.

Cathy Poulos is a celebrated Wilmington artist known for her vibrant, evocative works that capture the beauty of everyday life.

Trish and Ric Rioux's journey into the world of art collecting began almost three decades ago during a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Fine Art Local, is a dynamic new gallery and online platform in Wilmington, NC

Kate Robinson, a self-taught abstract painter, has always been drawn to art, from childhood memories.

Artist Janet Sessom is exhibiting at Fine Art Local in Wilmington, NC.

Colby Byrd, the visionary jewelry designer behind Shelton Metal, has long been known for his ability to craft unique, sculptural pieces.

Ann Hair is currently showing with Fine Art Local, a new gallery in downtown Wilmington.

Jesus Ortiz, with his distinctive and recognizable photographic style, was the overall winner of the Cape Fear Living Photographer for 2024.

We get the inside scoop on Richard Oversmith's inspiration from visiting Wilmington, what he's most excited about at the Vino & Vision event

Artist Jove Wang will be exhibiting in Wilmington, NC at the Vino & Vision event.

Dan Beck, impressionistic painting was his first love.