Mary Jo Beswick’s “Oyster Paisley” is an elegant fusion of traditional design and coastal elements, set against a soothing seafoam green background. This pair of boots showcases a detailed paisley pattern, intricately intertwined with images of oysters and various natural shapes, all rendered in rich jewel tones. The use of paisley, a classic motif often associated with intricacy and flair, is creatively adapted to include elements of the sea, reflecting the cultural and environmental significance of oysters in the Chesapeake Bay. This artwork not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the boots but also pays homage to the region’s renowned oyster industry, making it a vibrant celebration of local heritage and natural beauty.

About Watermen’s Way

Watermen’s Way is a public art project honoring the Watermen and Waterwomen of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Sponsored by Virginia’s River Realm in conjunction with Lancaster by the Bay Chamber of Commerce, this project benefits the Virginia Watermen’s Association, Steamboat Era Museum, and the RAL Art Center.

These oversized, fiberglass boots are iconic items for the men and women who make their living on the water. Used by the seafood industry across the world, here in the Chesapeake Bay, they have nicknames like “Guinea Slippers,” “Tangier Tennis Shoes,” “Red Balls,” or “Bubba Boots.” Each sculpture is personalized by a local artist, drawing from themes that reflect the lives of the people who work the water, harvesting crabs, oysters, and fish from the Bay, rivers, and creeks.