Karen | Sakura
Oil on canvas
72″ x 48″

This oil painting I did recently was for a very special woman. Karen was my third grade teacher in elementary school. Her house has a beautiful collection of artwork from local Hawaii artists as well as artworks she found during her travels. I was thrilled when she asked me to paint something for her. I was inspired to paint sakura blossoms for her because of its beauty and peacefulness. Happy Spring!

Work in progress:

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An art studio, or a place to make art, is a cherished space. I have made art in spaces that were sometimes shared and solitary, small and large, sometimes leaky and at times sweltering hot. I have made art on the go, outside in random places and most times sitting on a floor. I have no doubt that my environment influences my work and my creativity.  I am happy about my new studio, it is quiet and clean with accents of yellow and large windows that drench the studio with northern light. I’m calmed by the sounds of the ocean and curious about the people that pass by. As impermanent as this studio may be, I love this space.

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The first phase of the the “Lei Maker” Installation went up in November 2011.  I will be working on phase 2 this year and will post updates on the blog.

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The Lei Maker

A site specific installation of 28, 5’x7’ oil on canvas panels for the Honolulu International Airport, Hawaii

About The Lei Maker:

Lei are a physical manifestation of Aloha and an eternal metaphor for the generous and loving spirit of Hawaii. A unifying sense of oneness with man, nature and the divine is steeped in ancient Hawaiian tradition. Lei are made in the spirit of this interconnectedness. Each lei is its own work of art, uniquely crafted by the artisan lei maker through knowledge handed down from one generation to the next.

Leaves, seeds, shells, flowers and feathers are carefully and intentionally collected by the lei maker and fashioned into a wreath or garland as a token of celebration or reverence. The lei is offered as a blessing or ornament, encircling the recipient in a tangible symbol of joy, love and connection.

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Available Works

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As 2011 quietly slips away,  I think about what a special year this has been.  As a family, we moved back home to Hawaii from Los Angeles after being away for 17 years. There is no question that living in Hawaii influences and inspires my work, the subtleties of the islands are sacred and simple. I love being home.

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www.alohaartweek.com/catalog/

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“MABUNI 2″ Oil on canvas

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“NANILOA COLLECTION #151″ 18″x 8′ Oil on canvas

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