For local artist Susan Kersch, inspiration can be found right outside her backdoor.

The Gulf Breeze resident gets her artistic surge from the bluegreen waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

“I love the ocean because it has movement,” Kersch said. “The colors are incredible and it goes on forever.

“It’s very energetic. I like movement because it is constantly changing. I don’t like things that are static.

“The only thing that moves and stays the same is the ocean. It’s so much a part of my life.”

Kersch grew up the daughter of a glass-blower, and she says her earliest artistic accomplishments came while helping her dad.

“My dad was a glass blower, and I would paint the glass for him,” she recalled. “I worked with him until I was about 18.”

After moving to several different places and studying at a couple of schools, Kersch found her niche along the Northwest Florida Gulf coast.

“If you stand out on Pensacola Beach, looking out, it’s beautiful. The greens and blues, mixed with the white sand – it’s like symphony!”

Kersch, an avid sailor, also likes to get out on the water.

“I love to sail. I don’t know if it’s my first or second passion, but I can’t stand being away from the water.”

Kersch works with many different mediums, primarily painting with acrylic and oil.

“I usually work both of them into my paintings. Most artists don’t like doing that, but I’m a little different.

“I like the depth that oil brings and the acrylic glaze.”

Kersch will be displaying her works at the annual Pensacola Seafood Festival, Sept. 24-26.

Those interested can also email her at artofcolor1@yahoo.com or visit www.artofcolor1.com.