As Sea Salts & Sail celebrates its 30th anniversary year, we are delighted and honoured to showcase a specially commissioned painting by internationally renowned Newlyn artist Vicki Norman, whose stunning artwork graces the cover of the 2026 festival programme.
More than just a beautiful image, Timeless Traditions captures the spirit of the festival itself: traditional sailing vessels, Cornwall’s maritime heritage, and the enduring connection between people, sea and sail. Most importantly, Vicki has generously donated the original painting to help support the future of the festival and the wider community.
About Vicki Norman
Vicki moved to Newlyn in 2022 to pursue her twin passions of painting and sailing along Cornwall’s spectacular coastline. It wasn’t long before she became immersed in the traditional sailing community, discovering a deep sense of belonging both personally and professionally.
An award-winning artist, Vicki’s work is inspired by the ever-changing light, colours and atmosphere of Mount’s Bay. Her paintings draw on first-hand experiences at sea, often created from direct observation while sailing alongside traditional vessels or from memories gathered during voyages around the Cornish coast.
Vicki has exhibited with the Royal Institute of Oil Painters in London, received awards in the UK, Europe and the USA, and continues to build a reputation as one of Cornwall’s most accomplished contemporary maritime artists. Her work combines traditional painting techniques with the freshness and energy of plein air painting, creating scenes that feel both timeless and alive.
Since 2023, Vicki has also served as Artist in Residence for the Cornish Maritime Trust, helping raise awareness and support for the charity while gaining unique access to Cornwall’s historic boats and sailing traditions.
A Painting Inspired by the Sea
Speaking about the commission, Vicki said:
‘I’m honoured to have a piece of my work featured on the Sea Salts & Sail programme. I’ve chosen to make a painting that celebrates the joy of sailing in company with some of the most beautiful boats in Europe, from my own viewpoint, as a sailor on board a traditional vessel.’
The resulting painting, Timeless Traditions, perfectly captures the essence of Sea Salts & Sail: the beauty of traditional craft under sail, the magic of Mount’s Bay, and the living maritime heritage that the festival exists to celebrate.
Our Sincere Thanks
The Sea Salts & Sail Committee would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Vicki for her generosity, enthusiasm and support of the festival.
As a volunteer-led community event, Sea Salts & Sail relies on the kindness and commitment of people who share our passion for preserving Cornwall’s maritime heritage. Vicki’s donation of the original artwork is an extraordinary contribution that will help ensure the festival can continue to thrive for years to come.
We are incredibly grateful that she has chosen to support both the festival and the community in this way.
How to View and Bid on the Painting
The original Timeless Traditions painting can be viewed:
- At The Tyler Gallery, Mousehole, during the week leading up to the festival.
- In the Solomon Browne Hall throughout the festival weekend.
The painting will be auctioned during the Sea Salts & Sail Awards Ceremony on Sunday evening, providing a unique opportunity to own an original work by one of Cornwall’s leading maritime artists.
Those unable to attend in person can still take part by leaving a bid at the Sea Salts & Sail merchandise stall on the South Quay during the festival.
Supporting the Festival and Community
Every penny raised through the auction will go directly into the Sea Salts & Sail Fund, helping to support future festivals and contributing to a range of local community causes.
For those who fall in love with the artwork but miss out on the original, prints of Timeless Traditions will also be available from the Sea Salts & Sail merchandise stall alongside other festival memorabilia.
We encourage everyone to take the opportunity to view this remarkable painting, celebrate Vicki’s incredible talent, and support the future of Sea Salts & Sail by placing a bid.
Thank you, Vicki, for helping us celebrate 30 years of Sea Salts & Sail in such a memorable and meaningful way.