Sirena...Part Deux

This image was created last year for a special letterpress edition which was a popular hit. Always looking for ways to make my work tactile and organic, I re-worked this image to include in this year's "Driftwood" Exhibit. Check out the finished piece below!

Dual Show with Christie Shinn @ Greenroom Hawaii

I just laid down the finishing touches on five new pieces for my upcoming show at Greenroom Hawaii. This new series, inspired by the ocean and beach living, is a special one for me as it is the first time I'm featuring prints on wood.

As with last year's Internacional Show, I will only be releasing a one-of-a-kind print of each image. Each print is created on sustainable wood with a unique organic grain. All pieces are UV cured and embellished for some interesting 3D effects. What can I say, I love tactile art!

In addition, I'm excited to be showing alongside one of my personal favorites Christie Shinn. I consider Shinn to be among the most graphically talented and bold painters on the island and one of the first artists to encourage me when I arrived on Oahu in '09. We are so stoked for this dual exhibit.

Finally, this will be my last show before the new baby arrives. Yes, you heard right...Madame Kat is having a wee lil' one! I'll be ready to pop but super excited to be among friends and of course, the fans whom I love so much.

A special thanks to my friends at Greenroom Hawaii for their constant support and loyalty.

Hope to see you all there Saturday, Nov. 23rd from 6-9pm!!

Loco Boutique Exclusive!

This Fall/Winter season I'm featuring a limited release with Loco Boutique. This specialty store, carrying contemporary swimmwear, features sexy pieces, printed right here in Hawaii. I created this image "Joyride" as a custom design for Hawaii-based Surfer Girl Academy back in 2011. Ever since, it's become part of the official Surfer Girl Academy uniform--which I find totally awesome!

After many requests from fans, I decided to partner up with Loco Boutique for a limited release of exclusive swimmwear featuring "Joyride", now available at your local Loco Boutique stores for purchase.

The styles range from sexy bikinis to beach bags and even rompers! Whatever your style, they gotcha covered.

If you're lucky, you can still snag an item with the official "Kat Reeder for Loco Boutique" tag, which includes a special discount code for purchases through my online store...just in time for the holidays!

Why Dove's "Real Beauty" campaign is B.S.

Dove recently embarked on an experiment to find out how women truly see themselves. The company recruited a group of women of different backgrounds and asked Gil Zamora, an FBI-trained forensic artist, to create sketches based on descriptions of the women's own facial features. In the above video, produced by Dove, the company attempts to highlight how most women don't see themselves as beautiful. It is by all accounts, an eye-opening experiment brought to us by Dove, a company whose "Real Beauty" campaigns have aimed to uplift women in recent years. It is a brilliant marketing strategy, one with an earnest social message perhaps. But, this is why I'm calling bullshit.

The big problem with this experiment is fails to point out that a possible reason for the disparities in both sketches is not that women see themselves as ugly, but rather more accurately. If you listen closely, the "stranger" who was asked to describe the person had only spent a few minutes with them. You can see they are being polite and careful in their description, using flattering phrases such as "she had nice eyes". This is typical for anyone trying to describe a friend or new acquaintance. If these same folks had been asked to describe this person for forensic reasons (i.e. to solve a crime), their depictions would be more practical and realistic.

On the other hand, the women describing themselves are doing so honestly. We know our faces better than anyone. We know every freckle, wrinkle and bump on our face. Therefore it is natural to describe ourselves in more specific terms than a total stranger. For Dove to ascribe self-hatred to the person is to claim they can somehow read their minds and hearts, which they cannot. This is a subjective assessment devoid of any real psychology or science.

The saddest part of the segment is the moment the women see their sketches for the first time. Some are brought to tears, and Dove quickly concludes this is due to the women's sudden realization that they see themselves as unattractive when compared to everyone else. In reality, they are reacting the way any person would react upon seeing an unflattering sketch of themselves. 

If these women did not see themselves as ugly, they sure did after Dove told them so --and that's the ironic twist. Dove convinced them they were weak, self-loathing women with no grasp of reality. Dove, therefore, becomes the vehicle for self-awareness and female empowerment, forging a very powerful link between the brand and feeling good about ourselves. Saying you need the brand because you're emotionally insecure is a brilliant strategy employed by the beauty industry quite effectively. 

As an artist depicting women of all ethnic backgrounds, I've learned to deconstruct my subject's description of themselves to find their true essence. A "true to life" sketch isn't about drawing every physical detail but rather about capturing the spirit of that person. For me, I don't listen for what's said, but rather how it is said. I believe a third sketch, one created by a graphic artist, would better reflect how these women truly see themselves. 

This was a daring experiment by Dove but sadly it missed the mark. What a shame.

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.

Maryknoll School Student Meet-and-Greet

So much has happened since my last post in December. I'm still getting a hang of this blog thang so please excuse me for the delayed posts.

Before my "Internacional" show closed in January, I had the chance to meet a group of students from Maryknoll School in Honolulu. Mr. Cramer, the spanish instructor from this school, asked if he could bring his spanish-class students to meet me, see the artwork, and hopefully practice their spanish. I thought this was such a cool idea!

It was a fun chat with the students. They asked me great questions in spanish! They learned a little about my show, my work, and where I come from in Peru. It was great to see students from such diverse ethnic backgrounds learning and taking an interest in latin culture.

I want to give kudos again to Mr. Cramer from Maryknoll School for taking such a hands-on approach to teaching and for allowing me to connect with his students in such a special way!

A day dedicated to children

My heart breaks for the families affected by today's shooting. My thoughts and deepest condolences go out to all the families in Connecticut. In a day filled with tragedy and loss it is especially poignant to relay this message about compassion and giving.

Children are the beacon of light in an otherwise uncertain world. I do not have children of my own yet. When I do, I will guide them, protect them and show them the path to making their dreams happen. I cannot imagine any harm or ill being bestowed upon a child. I feel for all parents facing a threat to their little ones's health and well-being.

It is in this spirit that I've chosen to highlight a great organization such as Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii. The Hawaii chapter recently celebrated their 25th anniversary helping families stay together during times of grave illness.

Life threatening ailments can frighten anyone but events like cancer, leukemia and others can be especially scary for children. Ronald McDonald House of Hawaii makes it possible for families to go through treatment without worrying about a place to stay. In addition, families can comfort each other and partake in regular activities with other children going through similar situations. This home makes for a positive and supportive environment where kids can be kids.

I will dedicate tonight's art opening to children everywhere. If you would like to contribute or learn more about Ronald McDonald House of Hawaii, please check out the video I posted. Mahalo Nui Loa and God Bless!

a PREVIEW: Philippines

"Violeta" 26x30 canvas giclee. Edition 1/1. Internacional by Kat Reeder 2012

Here is a preview of one of my newest works, "Violeta", inspired by the Pagapir fan dance of the Philippines.

According to an entry on DanceandDance.com: "Pagapir depicts a royal manner of "walking" among the Maranao people who live mainly around Lake Lanao. Ladies of the royal court perform this stately dance in preparation for an important event. The ladies gracefully manipulate the Aper (apir) or fan, while emphasizing their small steps, or "kini-kini", which symbolizes their good manners and prominent family background."
I'm sure this dance has a long and colorful history. I look forward to learning more from my filipino fans about this style. After all, this show is about sparking conversation and learning----and I just LOVE to learn new things.

For now, this is my interpretation of this beautiful dance in visual form. Remember, only one canvas print will be available so make sure to snag it before it's gone!

Mind.Blown. The India/Spain dance connection.

 Here is a wonderful example of two dances sharing common roots, India's Kathak and Spain's Flamenco. These are two beautiful styles in their own right. When performed in unison they create a stunning mirror image that speaks to a common ancestry (and to my soul). Just an amazing performance. Enjoy.

Internacional: The Art of Kat Reeder opening Friday!

Hello folks. It is the eve of the opening of my newest show "Internacional: The Art of Kat Reeder", opening Dec. 14th at Manifest in Honolulu. All my works are up and ready to go and I'm super excited. This internationally-themed project is one I've envisioned for a long time and I'm glad to finally share it.

You see, I've long been fascinated with world folklore, especially dance and music. I'm sure somewhere is a link to my growing up in Lima and then Miami, two completely different cities with their own local flavor. I was lucky enough to have been exposed to folks from all over the world. From Cuba to Jamaica, my friends were diverse and very much in tune with their traditions. It was a wonderful time of sharing music and dance.

Sure, as with all large cities, sometimes there was discord among ethnic groups in South Florida. Some native Floridians were displeased with the influx of Cuban immigrants as were some Cubans with the influx of Haitians and so forth. Sometimes people didn't understand one another. Whatever the political environment, food, music and dance always brought people together.

It was in this sharing that I noticed the common links between our world dances. I learned that Peru, Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico and even America, could trace their dance roots to Africa. This was an awesome concept in my young mind. The idea of all dances were born of cultural interchange, the same type of sharing I did with my friends, was captivating to me.

This fascination with Latin dance soon sparked curiosity for all dances. If Latin-America and the Caribbean shared common roots, why not other peoples?

(By the way, I recently learned there are other nerds like me in the world...they're called Ethnochoreologists. Look it up, pretty cool! :)

This quest eventually took me many places around the world...some figuratively, some literally. I learned that in fact many dances do have common roots. For instance, American western dance can trace it's lineage to Ireland. Spanish Flamenco to India. Phillipines Pagapir to Muslim dance, and many more back to Africa. It is a very cool concept. One I explore with my newest art series.

So please if you're around you should definitely check it out. Only one canvas will be released and the proceeds all go to The Ronald McDonald House of Hawaii...more on that later. :)

The Video that Inspired Me Long Ago.

Janet Jackson's "Runaway" is by far one of my favorite videos of all time. I remember being a freshman in high school with big dreams of being an artist when this premiered on MTV. The video is chock-full of inspirational images and wonderful dancing from around the globe.

I especially love Janet's choreography:  a mix of Thai, Indian and African rhythms all fused together flawlessly (this IS Ms. Jackson after all!). Her message of love and global inclusion (not to mention that GORGEOUS styling and makeup) is just inspired.

Long ago, this video put a seed of inspiration in my head for my upcoming show titled "Internacional". Sit back, turn this up, and travel around the world with Janet. ;D

Marinera Norteña--Peru's Dance of Love

"Marinera" is Peru's national dance. It is a dance of courtship that showcases a man and a young woman flirting through movement. I've watched this dance performed hundreds of time at parties and other Peruvian celebrations and each time I'm drawn into story, at the edge of my seat, wondering if they'll find love in the end. It's a very dramatic and powerful dance.

The origins of Marinera, like all things Peruvian, are a mix of Andean, Spanish and African descent. Our dances are replete with symbolic meaning. Some say the flowing of the skirt is meant to echo ocean waves, hence the name "Marinera" (Of the Sea). Personally, I've always likened the man's sharp kicks and rapid travel movements to those of a Peruvian  paso horse and the woman's handkerchief, skirt flipping and forward leg kicking to those of a bird. Don't know about you, but I see a horse chasing after a beautiful dove. Very romantic indeed.

India's beautiful dance Bharatanatyam

For my next piece, I will be depicting this classical dance from India. One of the most exciting parts of this project has been researching the music and dances. There are thousands of beautiful dances all over the world so it's very hard to narrow down just a few.

In my research and image finding I stumbled upon the lovely Savitha Sastry. When I saw her dark eyes,  mysterious expressions and sharp movements, I was hooked. This dance is called bharatanatyam, a classical dance inspired by the sculptures of ancient temples in India (as you can see from the sharp poses). Just amazing. Enjoy.

Hotness in the works

A Preview of What's to Come

"Philippines" work-in-progress, INTERNACIONAL December show by Kat Reeder

Hola Amigos! Check out my latest work-in-progress for my upcoming show in December, "Internacional". The theme of this series will explore different world dances. The show will have a small selection of nationalities. However, this being a "fluid" series, it will grow to include many countries from around the world. Take a look at my latest piece for the Philippines (getting her honey brown locks colored).

Studio Snapshot

My husband posted this photo of me working the other day with the caption "My wife is the captain of her own groovy starship" Hehe. What can I say, I love me some disco balls.

I'm very happy to be working at my new home studio which my dad and husband lovingly designed for me. I find myself spending more time in this room. Between my current art series and new commissions, I basically live here and I love it!

Second Exclusive Design for LeSportsac in Stores Now!

Paradise Bloom, Kat Reeder exclusive in stores now

LeSportsac has just released my newest design for their Hawaii line, "Paradise Bloom"! This marks my second collaboration with the brand and I'm very excited about it. I can't believe we began this project almost a year ago! From the sketching phase to the initial color proofs and meeting the entire NY team, this has been a great experience.

I can't thank LSS enough for the opportunity to showcase my work on their products. The first design "Moana Ahe" has sold tremendously well and we're already getting a lot of requests for this new print. These two designs are only sold in Hawaii so if you're in town don't forget to get your bag at any of the 5 boutiques in Oahu (and in Guam). Mahalo!

LeSportsac Royal Hawaiian store display

Self-Portrait...in progress.

Saludos!

Here's my latest project in progress. This will accompany a magazine feature about me, my work, and my favorite spot on the island. I haven't done of these in a while. This one is extra special because it will also feature my favorite place to hang out, Makaha....That and because for once when folks ask if the girl in my drawing is me, I can say "well yes it is!"  :D

Will post more as I make progress. Aloha!

Introducing "Sirena" limited edition letterpress

I've been in love with letterpress all my life and for years have been toying with the idea of creating a set of limited edition prints. Because this will be my first year at the Haleiwa Arts Festival, I wanted to create something special. I'm so happy to introduce "Sirena", limited edition of 100, signed by yours truly.

I teamed up with South Shore Paperie after searching dozens of printers nationwide. This lovely boutique, located in Kapahulu, carries unique stationary and paper products only found at this store.
The owners were so attentive and easy to work with. The print shop owner is a graphic designer herself so I knew my art would be in good hands.

The prints turned out fabulous. If you'd like to get yours, come to Haleiwa Arts Festival. They'll be gone fast!

A big mahalo again to South Shore Paperie for their amazing work.
Below is a bit of the process from sketch to press. Enjoy!

Photos courtesy South Shore Paperie. 

plates!

The finished product. So great to see an piece from start to finish.