A Maui Visit Through the Eyes of an Artist
As I write this, I’m on the island of Maui—soaking it in. This visit isn’t just a getaway; it’s a grounding. A reconnection. A preview of what’s to come.
Over the past few days, I’ve wandered through the colorful streets of Makawao, where paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage meets bohemian art culture. The galleries there pulse with creativity—some steeped in tradition, others boldly experimental. I found myself lingering in front of pieces that felt both grounded and windswept, like the Upcountry air itself. It reminded me that art here doesn’t try to shout over the landscape—it breathes with it.
In Wailuku, where I’m envisioning the heart of VidaMagic’s future, the vibe shifts. It’s rooted, cultural, and layered. There’s a strong sense of community, and the art reflects that—stories told through color, through tapa patterns, through reclaimed wood and found materials. I felt something spark there, a sense that my work might evolve in tandem with this place, honoring its rhythms while still carrying the textures of the Pacific Northwest with me.
Something else has unexpectedly deeply moved me: the contrast between the dry and lush sides of the island. It’s more than just scenery—it’s energy. The drier regions feel sun-bleached and expansive, like a breath held in the afternoon heat. The lush areas are dense, alive, and humming with moisture and movement. I can already feel how these landscapes might influence the palettes I use, the textures I build, and even the energy I infuse into each canvas. Maybe I’ll experiment more with soft washes and vibrant greens like the avocado and kukui nut trees hugging Iao Valley. Maybe I’ll lean into the deep emotion of the burnt ironwood trees, or the bold shadows of the Kiawe trees. Maui’s diversity isn’t just beautiful—it’s creatively fertile.
This trip has affirmed everything I hoped for: that the island isn’t just a place I’m moving to—it’s a place I’m creating with. My return to the Pacific Northwest next week feels temporary now. My compass is set.
Stay tuned—more magic is coming.
Mahalo for walking this journey with me.
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