This is the place for stunning artwork from artists all around the world. I am constantly inspired by the level of professionalism and creativity the artists at Artful Home present.

Kyoko Endo, Ria Keltz-Remenar, Corrine Gallardo, Bonnie McCann

Tropical Passion, my hand-dyed tissue collage, won 3rd place at the Cafe Che Pasta art show, organized by Corrine Gallardo of the O’ahu Arts Center. The show was juried by Rujunko Pugh. Rujunko graduated with an MS in Molecular Bioscience and Bioengineering from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She was born in Japan, grew up in California and North Carolina, and now resides in Hawaii.  Her award winning work has been exhibited in the Honolulu Academy of Arts, Artist of Hawaii, the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce’s Commitment to Excellence and various fundraisers in Hawaii such as The Contemporary Museum’s ConTempo, the Punahou Carnival and Le Jardin’s Annual Dinner.  She has also had solo and group shows at The Contemporary Cafe, The Loft, Hawaii Pacific University Gallery, The South Street Gallery, The Balcony Gallery and Che Pasta. 

Rujunko’s comments on Tropical Passion - “Good composition, good balance of color, form evocative ginger/bird of paradise/lily , interesting use of medium.”

Featured artists in the show are Eddie Davis, Kyoko Endo, Osvaldo Flores, Corinne Gallardo, Thomas Garcia, Maurice Hutchinson, Laura Isola, Ria Keltz-Remenar, Bonnie McCann, Julie McIntyre, Sandy Sawin.

I’ve been facilitating a self-portrait discovery class for the last few weeks and it’s been very interesting seeing the journey come to life on canvas.  Each participant is given the same instructions, yet each painting is already dramatically different.  The class has both adults and teenagers, yet no one is at an advantage, because the focus is on interpretation rather than artistic skill or expertise. 

We started with brainstorming and color association.  For some, this was easy, and they created a long list of words and colors quickly.  Others had to mull things over for a few days before they started to “see” both the words and colors that would represent who they are now, and who they hope to be.  It’s an interesting exercise and if you don’t think too much about what “should be”, and just relax and write down what comes to mind, then you may be able to make connections with different aspects of your life.  

Why does that certain outfit make you feel confident and upbeat?  Why do you feel so down after going to a particular place?  Color is very powerful, and when you discover your own associations with colors, you can alter your mood, confidence, and energy level.  Change your shirt, paint your room, add a dash of just the right color here and there.  Seemingly simple things that could change your life!

Stay tuned for more of the self-portrait journey.

My Valentine's Treat

What a wonderful way to treat yourself during the gloomies of winter!

Treat yourself to more than just a cup of joe - make it an artful experience. Find yourself a special coffee shop that can create a work of art in your cup and take a moment to just enjoy. When surrounded by cold, gray, and wet, you can always warm up your day with a bit of art. From funky earrings, to a hand-knit scarf, or artful food, I promise you, if you just add a bit of creativity to what is around you, you will be more energetic and upbeat.