The Story Behind

Fence Fish by Sharon Kern Sharpe

The Texas Artist Bringing Fence Fish to Life

In the quiet backroads of Texas and Connecticut, where weathered fences stretch across sun-baked land and reclaimed wood tells stories of ranch and farm lives, a unique form of folk art has emerged — Fence Fish. At the heart of this creative movement is Sharon Kern Sharpe, a Texas born artist known for turning old stockade boards into vibrant, vintage-styled wooden fish that feel both nostalgic and soulfully modern.

Born and raised in Texas, Sharon Kern Sharpe grew up surrounded by the textures of rural life — chipped paint on barns, sun-worn fences, and the natural grain patterns of old timber. These early visuals shaped her artistic eye, giving her a deep appreciation for imperfection, patina, and the stories hidden in reclaimed materials.

After years of painting, crafting, and experimenting with mediums, Sharon found her signature style almost by accident: a pile of reclaimed stockade fence boards slated for disposal became her canvas. Instead of waste, she saw opportunity — and Fence Fish was born.

An Artist Rooted in Craft, Community & Good Vibes

Sharon Kern Sharpe is more than a folk artist; she’s a storyteller. Her work celebrates sustainability, creativity, and the beauty of giving old things new purpose. In a world of fast manufacturing, Sharon’s Fence Fish remind people to slow down, appreciate handmade craftsmanship, and enjoy the natural character in reclaimed materials.

And like the artist herself, the fish bring warmth, humor, and authentic Texas charm wherever they swim.

Whether hung indoors, placed on a porch, or given as a gift, each Fence Fish carries Sharon’s signature blend of rustic Texas roots and Connecticut coastal inspiration. They’ve become small tokens of joy — crafted with heart, painted with intention, and infused with the unique spirit of a Texas artist who sees beauty where others see scrap

Each Fence Fish is Unique!

Hand Crafted

Made with love by the hands of Sharon Sharpe.

Made in USA

FenceFish.com is locally owned and operated.

Established

We have been in business for 10+ years!

From Stockade Boards to Living Art

Each Fence Fish begins with a weather-beaten plank from a Texas stockade fence. Sharon cleans and sands the boards just enough to honor their past while keeping their rough-cut authenticity. The natural curves, chips, and knots guide the shape of each fish.

She then hand-paints them using a palette inspired by:

Coastal blues
Sun-faded reds
Teals and sea-glass greens
Earthy desert tones

The result is a worn-in, vintage, beach-meets-Texas aesthetic that has become her trademark.

No two Fence Fish are alike. Each one carries its own scars, color washes, personality, and whimsical charm.

Why Fence Fish Captures People’s Hearts

Sharon’s art stands out because it blends three irresistible elements:

1. Reclaimed Authenticity

Her fish are crafted from materials that lived a life before becoming art. Every board carries the history of Texas wind, sun, storms, and seasons.

2. Hand-Painted Craftsmanship

There’s no mass production here. Each fish is a one-of-a-kind creation, painted by hand with an artist’s attention to character and detail.

3. Soulful Simplicity

Fence Fish radiate good energy — joyful colors, natural textures, and a playful spirit that instantly lifts a room, porch, lake house, or beach cabin.

What began as a small personal project has now made its way into:

Texas-style farmhouses
Lake homes and beach cottages
Art fairs and local craft markets
Restaurants, breweries, and wineries seeking rustic decor
Private collections across the U.S.

Collectors often say the same thing: “You don’t just see the fish — you feel them.”