Hi, I’m Dora! I am a Florida-based artist and graphic designer with a passion for sunshine, coastal color, and meaningful visual storytelling.

My work has evolved in exciting new directions over the years, and today, I create original mixed media pieces featuring hand-painted seashells transformed into one-of-a-kind treasures and wall art. These intricate, tactile creations reflect my love of the ocean, a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, and a desire to bring beauty and calm into everyday spaces. Each piece is designed to celebrate mindfulness, detail, and the laid-back elegance of coastal living.
Originally from Wisconsin, I hold a Bachelor of Art degree from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside and bring two decades of experience in graphic design to the table. I’ve collaborated with a wide range of clients – from independent retailers to public museums and national brands – on everything from logos and packaging to trade show displays and digital campaigns. Whether it’s fine art or functional design, I believe that strong visual communication has the power to transform how people experience a brand, a product, or a space.
Now based in Fort Myers, I’m building a creative practice that blends fine art and design. My artwork has been acquired by collectors across the U.S. and internationally, and featured in publications such as Naples Daily News, Spotlight News Magazine, Naples Illustrated Charity Register, and VoyageMIA. I was also honored as one of Gulfshore Business Magazine’s “40 Under 40” emerging professionals.
If you’re a collector, designer, business owner, or curator looking for original art or professional creative support—let’s talk. I’d love to collaborate.
I am an animal lover!
I proudly support environmental conservation by donating proceeds from artwork collections to organizations such as Captains for Clean Water and Friends of Rookery Bay. I have also licensed artwork to companies with similar missions, such as Leeward Look and Manatee Coffee.

Press + Publications
Spotlight News Magazine: Dora Knuteson's Art Connects People with the Environment Read >
Gulfshore Business Recognizes 40 of Southwest Florida's Young Leaders with 2020 40 Under 40 Awards Read >
Naples Daily News: East Naples artist continues activism with new series of paintings Read >
Naples Illustrated 2019-20 Charity Register: When the Earth Means the World (page 40) Read >
Florida Weekly: Local Artist Finds Purpose in Conservation Read >
Coastal Breeze: Joy & Whimsy Intertwine at Rookery Bay's Under the Sea Mural Read >
Voyage MIA: Meet Dora Knuteson Read >
Spotlight News Magazine: Artist becomes a creative force for good Read >
Naples Daily News: Making waves: Naples artist paints fish in her own version of activism Read >
Show History
Solo and 2-Person Exhibitions
2023
Beyond the Sea: Dora Knuteson + Chuck Boux, Chihuly Collection Presented by Morean Arts Center, FL
2020
Dora Knuteson in the Norris Center, United Arts Council of Collier County, FL
Save the Sea Turtles, Rookery Bay Research Reserve, FL
Group Exhibitions
2020
Botanical, Las Laguna Gallery, CA
Quo Vadis, Van Der Plas Gallery, NY
Third on Canvas, Naples Art Association, FL
2019
Third on Canvas, Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, FL
Tiny Art, Naples Art Association, FL
Your Choice, Naples Art Association, FL
2018
Southwest Florida Painting Annual, Rookery Bay, FL
Reunion, UW-Parkside Gallery, WI
Tiny Art, Naples Art Association, FL
2017
Your Choice, Naples Art Association, FL