“Three Sisters” 24″ x 36″ Acrylic on Canvas, Framed

When I think of Swansboro, N.C., one of the first images my mind conjures up is the view of the three shrimp boats docked at Clyde Phillips Seafood Market. I am sure I am not alone with this thought. The three sisters are local icons – a lovely and unique sight to behold!

I have a burning question in life. I wonder who decided and why they decided to paint the rigging red on these glorious ships.  The rigging makes these ships so very striking and distinct.

When these ships leave the comfort of their Swansboro harbor for fishing in distant waters,  they must be immediately recognizable to other fishing vessels and crew.

Is it a branding? – a way of saying “Hello fellow fisherman! We are here!”?

Perhaps the red rigging illuminates like a beacon in fog and storm and provides an added measure of safety.

Or, maybe the answer is quite simple as someone recently suggested as we pondered the question, “What if there was a sale on red paint and that alone was the deciding factor;-) ? After all, we supposed those things happen, too!

What if the decision to paint the rigging red was simply a design choice because red was a favorite color? That is certainly why my husband’s bike is red, along with his helmet, jersey, socks, water bottle and anything else he can make red. Of course, he did go to NCSU.

The walls in my den are red, but I am not a red fanatic.  (And no, there was not a sale on red paint, nor did I attend NCSU.) Red just happens to be the color chosen to warmly accentuate my favorite color, green… and the accompanying deep green leather furniture.

I am certain of one thing. I have to believe there is a great story about the Swansboro shrimp boats’ red rigging. If anyone knows, or should find out, please let me know!

Clyde Phillips Seafood Market Series

Available:  Tidewater Gallery, Swansboro, N.C.