ABOUT THE GALLERY and OWNER

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About Padre Island Art Gallery

Celebrating Creativity on the Texas Coast

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Padre Island Art Gallery is a woman-owned, community-focused gallery dedicated to showcasing a vibrant mix of local and regional artists—from emerging talent to internationally recognized creatives. Located on the Texas Gulf Coast, our gallery offers an ever-changing collection of original artworks, handmade gifts, and unique finds that reflect the beauty, spirit, and story of island life.

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We’re proud to represent nearly 100 artists working in a wide variety of mediums, including acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, photography, ceramics, jewelry, woodworking, and more. Every piece is thoughtfully curated to reflect both artistic excellence and authentic expression.

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Looking for something truly one-of-a-kind? We also offer commission services to help you bring your vision to life through a custom, made-just-for-you work of art.

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A Space for Connection, Creativity, and Community

Art isn’t just something we hang on the wall—it’s something we share. At Padre Island Art Gallery, we believe in making art accessible, approachable, and deeply connected to the community we serve.

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We host monthly gallery events, including after-hours art shows, private shopping experiences, and community-driven exhibits like our Incognito Art Show and youth exhibitions. You’ll also find art classes and workshops led by some of the most talented instructors in the region. Whether you're a beginner exploring a new medium or an experienced artist refining your skills, our classes are designed to spark inspiration and nurture creativity.

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If you’re interested in a class or technique not currently offered, let us know—we’re happy to connect you with one of our artists who may be able to help.

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About the Owner

Melissa Mitchell
Gallerist, Padre Island Art Gallery

Artist | Entrepreneur | Writer | Mentor

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Melissa Mitchell is a Texas-based artist and entrepreneur with a lifelong passion for creativity, business, and community connection. As the Gallerist of Padre Island Art Gallery, she oversees day-to-day operations, curates exhibitions, and supports a diverse community of nearly 100 working artists.

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With more than 20 years of experience in business development, branding, and marketing, Melissa brings a strategic, heart-centered approach to running the gallery. She’s also the founder of Melissa Mitchell Art & Design, where she creates fine art and develops educational courses to help artists navigate the business side of creative work. Through her mentorship and course, The Art of Selling: A Business Guide for Artists, she has helped many emerging artists grow their confidence and their careers.

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Melissa believes that people don’t just buy art—they’re first drawn in by a feeling. But it’s the story behind the work that creates a lasting connection. She encourages the artists she mentors to share what makes their pieces meaningful, because when people understand the “why,” the art becomes something more—it becomes personal.

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“People fall in love with the feeling of a piece—but it’s the story that stays with them.”
— Melissa Mitchell

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That belief is what inspired Melissa to create Art in Motion—an initiative at Padre Island Art Gallery that brings artwork to life through digital storytelling. By scanning a simple QR code beside each piece, visitors can connect directly with the artist’s voice, process, and inspiration—creating a richer, more meaningful experience for both artist and collector.

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In addition to her work in the gallery, Melissa is also a writer. She pens a weekly column in The Island Moon Newspaper and shares reflections, artist spotlights, and creative insights through her blog, The Art of Island Life.

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Melissa’s personal artwork has been exhibited across Texas and is known for its peaceful, layered compositions that reflect transformation, resilience, and the beauty found in nature. She works in acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media—often incorporating natural textures, vintage papers, and subtle symbolism throughout her pieces.

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“If I can inspire even one person to grow and achieve more than they imagined, I’ll consider my mission a success.”—Melissa Mitchell

 

Visit Us

We invite you to stop by and experience the magic of the gallery in person. With fresh artwork arriving every week, there’s always something new to discover. Join us for Wine Down Wednesdays, special after-hours shows, or simply wander through our space and find something that speaks to you.

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Planning a celebration? Ask us about renting our private event space for a unique gathering surrounded by local art.

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Thank you for supporting local artists and for helping us keep creativity thriving on the Island!

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Click the gift box below to make a donation.

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The gallery can only survive with your support, so please visit us often! Tell your friends and family!

​​Like, follow, and share our social media pages!

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