Candace Ceslow paints with the kind of energy that feels like this place—soft, rhythmic, and a little wild. A Montauk-based artist, Candace draws inspiration from the ocean, soft skies, and the quiet in-between moments that make you pause and breathe a little deeper. There’s a calm she’s always chasing in her work. A bit of stillness. And maybe, if you’re looking closely, a little magic too.

Her process is as fluid as the East End landscapes that shape her. Most pieces begin with a reference photo or a specific feeling she wants to capture—something about the light, the air, or a passing moment. Sometimes she starts with a quick sketch in her notebook; other times, she jumps right in. From there, the work builds slowly—layer by layer—as she lets the painting guide her. It's intuitive, sometimes messy, and always evolving. Candace often works on multiple pieces at once, rotating between them while they dry. This helps her return to each canvas with fresh eyes. Music is usually playing in the background, and the vibe is calm—with the occasional dance break to keep the creative energy flowing. As she puts it, “I’m always chasing that feeling in my work—calm, stillness, and a little bit of magic.”

Since October 2023, Candace has been painting out of her own studio in town—her first dedicated creative space outside her home. It’s changed the way she connects with the community and helped her stay grounded in the work itself. The East End continues to be her constant muse. Its wild, natural beauty is always shifting, and the way the light changes throughout the year never gets old. Even on the busiest summer days, Candace always finds a quiet corner for peace and perspective. “It’s the slower pace, the beach, and the sense of community—especially in the off-season—that keep me grounded in Montauk.”

Candace’s work captures the spirit of Montauk in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal. If you find yourself in town, swing by her studio and see for yourself—or check her out online at @hellocando. You’ll likely leave feeling just a little more connected to this place.