Charleston "Haint Blue" Shutters

The Gullah culture in the Lowcountry at one time believed that painting the openings to homes sky blue would keep bad spirits (Haints) out. They believed if a spirit came to a house in the night and saw the sky blue color, it would think the sun was coming up and leave.

This folk custom can be seen in the color of the sky blue shutters on this historic house in Charleston today.

I painted this plein air painting on a brilliantly clear afternoon. The sun reflecting off the white building was blinding and in stark contrast with the beautiful, cool blue of the shutters and sky.

The crisp edges and sharp angles of the building add drama to this 14"x11" oil painting.