Breathing Life into Forgotten Relics as a Lobster Buoy Artist

Hello my name is Karen, a lobster buoy artist and the founder of Mermaid Ink. I transform lobster buoys into captivating art pieces using various inks and acrylic paints to accentuate their distinct form and beauty. From unique lamps that cast a soothing glow to buoys on a rope that add a splash of color to any environment.  Each product I create is a testament to the sea’s enduring beauty and my rooted connection to it….Ahoy Style!

Karen Jalbert Holding A Lobster

Immersed in the Maine Experience

Living most of my life in rugged Maine has honed my abilities to work hard and face any elements head-on. My experience spans from running a post-construction commercial cleaning business to apprenticing on a commercial lobster fishing vessel under a five-generation lobsterman in Freeport, ME. I completed my long days of hauling and logging hours by earning a commercial lobster fishing license.

Although I no longer fish as much, the profound respect I developed for Mother Nature, the colors I saw at sea and the potential of beached lobster buoys sparked my passion for coastal-inspired artwork.

Karen Jalbert Standing Near The Dock
Karen Jalbert Standing Near The Dock

Artistry at Sea

My experiences at sea showed me how the lobster buoy often found beached on the coastline and ripe for collection can serve as a unique colorful decoration that adds character to a doorstep, garden or barn’s exterior. They inspired me to breathe new life into this surprising canvas by connecting color, texture and creativity to these buoys to show off its shape and uniqueness.

Making a Difference, One Buoy at a Time

Art and design can reshape our perspectives and bring positivity to our surroundings. My passion for the outdoors and the sea is strongly reflected in my creations. I have turned those passions to creating these unique buoys into lamps and buoys on rope for all to enjoy a colorful decoration.

 

Bring Color to Your Space Today

Experience the joy of owning a piece of Maine’s vibrant coastal charm. I invite you to browse Mermaid Ink’s collection and take a fragment of the oceanic allure to your home.

Meet Salty
Mermaid Ink's Mascot

When I’m not post construction cleaning or hauling traps or creating in the studio or doing projects with my better half Geoff I’m hanging with our beautiful dogs. Casco, Captain, Bay and Salty.

Dog Laying Down On Ropes