My visit to Ronald McDonald House of Hawaii

I had the pleasure of visiting the Ronald McDonald House Hawaii last week. It was a visit I looked forward to after my Internacional Art Show in December where I pledged a portion of sales to this great organization.

I was greeted by the incredibly warm staff who kindly gave me a personal tour of this beautiful home in Manoa. As expected, the house is a warm and inviting place. Upon entering you are greeted by a great family room, spacious kitchen and fully-equiped children's playroom. The house is bright and spacious but more than that, there is a real feeling of happiness all around.

RMHH has created a nurturing haven for families going through one of the most emotional challenges in life---caring for ailing child. A traumatic experience becomes a loving and positive one for families in this wonderful home-away-from-home.

There are many ways to contribute to RMHH. You may donate funds or donate items from their wish list (available at www.ronaldhousehawaii.org/how). You may also volunteer as extra-hands around the house, property maintenance/beautification teamwork or to cook for the families at Judd House (Sundays are especially needed).

I want to send a big mahalo to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii for taking the time to meet with me and for showing around the property. It was great to meet you all.

For more info please visit www.ronaldhousehawaii.org

Newest Private Commission-David & Marta

I'm often asked why I don't draw more boys. My work tends to be female-centered because local girls are just so beautiful. I've wanted to include more kanes in my work so I was excited when this newest commission came in (and just in time for Valentine's Day!)

David and Marta, a young couple from Jersey, asked me to create a romantic image based on their travels to the Hawaii. I often ask clients for personal photographs and anecdotes that might inspire a beautiful piece. David and Marta did not disappoint. One photo stood out to me immediately and it was the one of Rainbow Falls. 

Rainbow Falls is a waterfall located in Hilo, Hawaii. This beautiful spot boasts an 80 ft. water drop into a circular pool, where rainbows can be often be seen in the midst. It is nestled in lush foliage, reminiscent of a Jurassic era. It seems undisturbed, untouched and exotic.

I chose this spot as the backdrop for my couple. I envisioned a young kane serenating his lovely wahine as her hula hands sway in the morning breeze. Romantic, no?

The image above is a sample screen cap of the line work. I like to document the various stages of my work to create a visual timeline. In this initial stage the line work is cleaned up and solid colors are being laid out.

I take inspiration from things around me. Her flower was inspired by a photo my brother shared with me of the most beautiful hibis. I just had to work it into my painting!

I guess this image marks my first depiction of a local boy. Yay! This was a fun image to create not only for the subject matter but because my Jersey couple was so great to work with. Below is a photo they sent me this week of the finished piece in their home.