Artist Statement

Contemporary mixed media artwork on aluminum, inspired by the art of Hula, the Annual Merrie Monarch Festival, Hawaiian mythology, and the Hawaii connection to nature, combines various artistic techniques and materials to create a visually captivating and conceptually rich piece.

The artwork utilizes automotive urethane, dry metallic powder, a variety of exotic flakes and pearls as the primary medium. The unique combination of traditional skills combined with new media rendered in such a unique way that resembles the flow and transparency of watercolor; offering a sleek and reflective surface that adds a modern touch to the traditional subject matter. The aluminum provides a durable base for the mixed media elements and allows for experimentation with different textures and finishes.

Drawing inspiration from the Annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which is a prestigious hula competition celebrating the Hawaiian cultural heritage, the artwork incorporates elements of Hula dance. Depicting graceful hula dancers in dynamic poses, their flowing costumes, or the rhythmic movements that characterize this ancient dance form.

Incorporating Hawaiian mythology, the artwork may feature mythological figures or symbols representing deities, such as Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, or Kanaloa, the god of the ocean. These mythological elements add depth and meaning to the artwork, connecting it to the spiritual and cultural traditions of Hawaii.

The artwork also draws inspiration from the Hawaii connection to nature. It may showcase the lush tropical landscapes, vibrant flowers like the hibiscus or plumeria, or depict marine life like sea turtles or dolphins. The natural elements reflect the harmony and reverence for the environment that is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture.

The mixed media aspect incorporate traditional Hawaiian texture textiles, such as kapa cloth or bark cloth, to add texture and cultural significance.

The Abstract Expressionism series builds upon the colors and themes explored in the original Hula series, expanding them further to convey color contrast and the movement of color. This new series incorporates experimentation with brass surfaces in addition to aluminum, introducing a new element of materiality and texture.

By incorporating patinas, powders, dyes and heat. The artist brings life to the surfaces, creating a sense of depth and adding another layer of visual interest. The patinas add texture and variations in color, enhancing the overall effect of the artwork. This combination of different materials and techniques allows for a rich exploration of color, surface, and texture within the Abstract Expressionism series.

The series aims to capture and communicate a sense of energy and emotion through the interplay of colors and materials. The bold and dynamic use of color contrasts, along with the experimentation with different surfaces and patinas, helps to create a visually engaging and immersive experience for the viewer. The artworks in this series seek to evoke a range of emotions and interpretations, inviting viewers to explore and engage with the expressive qualities of color and texture.