Meet The Artist: Jake Jones

Meet the Artist: Jake Jones of Jake Jones Gallery – Bringing Ocean Magic to Blue Wave Suites in Clearwater Beach



At Blue Wave Suites, we're all about creating unforgettable Clearwater Beach vacation rentals and boutique hotel experiences infused with authentic Gulf Coast charm. That's why we proudly commission award-winning local Florida artist Jake Jones from Jake Jones Gallery for the majority of our custom artwork. From tribal shark masterpieces in our suites to the upcoming octopus mural in our upper deck breakfast nook, Jake's vibrant, ocean-inspired creations make every stay feel like a true escape—just a short walk from the sugar-white sands, Pier 60, and all the best of Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Who Is Jake Jones?

Born in California and now proudly based in sunny Naples, Florida, Jake Jones is a self-taught, award-winning sculptor and painter whose entire creative world revolves around his deep love for "all things ocean." After years as a graphic designer and illustrator (including work for newspapers like the Naples Daily News and Toledo Blade), Jake left the desk behind to pursue hands-on art. He now works from his Naples studio, transforming reclaimed materials into stunning, sustainable pieces that capture the mystery, energy, and beauty of the sea.

His journey—from California waves to Ohio's Lake Erie shores, and finally to the Gulf Coast—fuels his passion. Jake takes special pride in upcycling: turning "something broken" (like old surfboards) into something beautiful and meaningful. Family moments, like art projects on the kitchen table with his two daughters, remain his favorite creations to date.

Signature Style: Hand-Carved Surfboard Art Inspired by the Sea

Jake's hallmark is reclaimed surfboard carvings—actual old surfboards that once rode real waves, now reborn as unique, ready-to-hang canvases. These eco-friendly pieces feature intricate hand-carved sculptures and vibrant paintings of ocean life, often enhanced with candy metallic automotive paints, hand-brushed Polynesian graphics, and embedded elements like shells, coral, shark teeth, or beach sand for added texture and authenticity.

His favorite subjects include:

• Octopuses (his personal top pick—intelligent, alien-like creatures with flowing, curling tentacles that seem to move across the board)
• Sharks (tribal hammerheads and fierce designs full of power and cultural flair)
• Mermaids, jellyfish, dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, krakens, starfish, and vibrant reef scenes

Every artwork is hand-crafted with love, blending bold colors, dynamic movement, and a sense of the tide's pull—perfect for beach houses, lanais, or coastal homes.

Our Ongoing Collaboration: Custom Art That Elevates Your Stay

Blue Wave Suites commissions Jake for much of our signature artwork because his ocean obsession aligns perfectly with our vision of immersive, joyful Clearwater Beach getaways. Standout examples include:

• The tribal shark masterpieces in suites like our "shark room" (Suite 6)—shimmering metallic finishes with cultural details and natural embeds that make guests feel the Gulf's wild spirit.
• Surfboard carvings and sea-inspired designs scattered throughout the property.
• The upcoming octopus mural in our upper deck breakfast nook—vibrant tentacles weaving through waves, sneaky sea creatures, and intelligent eyes that will turn your gourmet coffee or sparkling water moments into an underwater adventure.

By working repeatedly with Jake, we're supporting small businesses and local Florida artists who keep the creative heartbeat of the Gulf Coast alive. His Naples roots bring genuine Florida flavor to our walk-to-beach Clearwater Beach rentals, distinguishing us from standard Clearwater Beach condos or impersonal stays.

Why Jake's Art Matters for Your Clearwater Beach Vacation

Guests love how Jake's pieces spark joy and conversation: they add personality to our 10 cozy suites (with kitchenettes/full kitchens, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and easy access to the beach/marina). Whether you're relaxing on the upper deck with Gulf breezes, seagulls overhead, and palm trees swaying, or exploring Pier 60 sunsets, his art enhances the coastal vibe and makes your Clearwater Beach Florida vacation feel special.

Want a commissioned art piece of your own? Contact Jake Jones directly to discuss a custom creation! He frequently takes on personalized commissions—whether a surfboard carving of your favorite sea creature, a tribal shark tribute, an octopus-inspired piece, or something unique to your home/beach house. Reach out via:

• 
  Email: artbyjake@gmail.com
• Website: Visit jakejonesgallery.com to browse his shop, join the mailing list for new releases, or inquire about custom work.
• Social media: Follow @jakejonesgallery on Instagram and Facebook for inspiration and direct messaging.

Jake welcomes simple concepts—he'll bring your ideas to life! Don't hesitate to reach out if you're dreaming of a one-of-a-kind ocean artwork.

Ready to experience Jake's magic in person?

Book direct at bluewavesuites.com for the best rates on Clearwater Beach vacation rentals and Clearwater Beach suites.

Follow Jake for more ocean inspiration and stay tuned for live updates on the octopus' mural—it's coming very soon!

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