05/26/2026
We are incredibly fortunate to work with so many talented local artists, and today we are excited to highlight longtime Coastal Cottage artist Anthony “Tony” Fotia and share a little more about both the artist and the beautiful work he creates. Anthony creates striking acrylic paintings on canvas inspired by the natural beauty of Coastal Carolina, capturing the wildlife, waterways, and coastal charm of the Southport and Oak Island area. From graceful herons and pelicans to sea turtles, boats, and serene beach scenes, Tony’s work reflects both a designer’s eye for composition and a deep appreciation for the coastal lifestyle. His original paintings and a limited number of prints are available at Coastal Cottage, and he also welcomes custom commissions.
Before dedicating himself full-time to fine art, Tony built an accomplished career in graphic design and marketing. In the early 1960s, he freelanced for numerous companies and design firms throughout the New York area before founding APF Graphics, Inc. in 1970. As President and Art Director for nearly three decades, Tony led the New York-based agency in creating marketing and design campaigns for nationally recognized clients including General Foods, Nestlé Foods, U.S. To***co, and Weight Watchers.
Among his many memorable projects were designing promotional graphics for heavyweight boxing contender Gerry Cooney and creating the world’s largest candy bar wrapper for a 7,200-pound Nestlé Crunch bar — experiences that showcased both his creativity and sense of fun.
After retiring to Southport with his wife Joyce in 2009, Tony turned his creative focus toward painting the coastal subjects that surround and inspire him every day. His acrylics with lifelike detail combine professional design expertise with a warm, personal connection to the Carolina coast. Tony has been a member of the Associated Artists of Southport for more than 12 years and remains a longtime featured artist at Coastal Cottage.
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece celebrating the beauty of Coastal Carolina or a custom painting with personal meaning, Tony’s work brings color, craftsmanship, and coastal character into every space. Stop in the Cottage soon to find a perfect piece.
