ARTISTS OF KAUAI...

Artists of Kauai, or “A.O.K.,” was formed by a diverse group of individuals whose goal is to help support and promote each other in their artistic talents and visions inspired by the beauty and culture of the Hawaiian islands. Step back into time, and take the journey with Keala Kai, as he sketches by pencil ancient Hawaiian artifacts, ancient voyaging canoes, and the intricacy of its significant parts. Short notes are included identifying the importance of each piece.

From there, take a walk on the shores of long ago, and enter the world created by artist Fred Tangalin, as he brings to life, through brush and oils, the days of old plantation living. Miles Tanabe, Glenn Ichimura and Neal Matsuyama, collectively, also using oils and/or acrylics, bring a sense of calm and serenity into an era where simplicity and appreciation of nature are sometimes ignored and forgotten.

Jump forward to the present and see the beauty of Kauai, through the eyes of Kerry Oda, whose photographic images capture the bold and vivid colors of the island.

Finally, enter the world of watercolorist, Ric Madden, and let his artwork take you into a realm of fantasy and dreams.

This collection is just a sampling of what each humble artist has to share to fulfill the needs of a private collector or the remodeling of multiple units by corporate developers. With the sunrise of each new day, who knows what other inspirations might be drawn or photographed that will capture the heart and soul.

For more information, please feel free to call us at (808) 652-7430 to discuss pricing, print and framing options.

William “Keala” Kai
Background: William “Keala” Kai reveals a captivating smile as he shares “the spirit of aloha” of a true Kaua’i native. A professional waterman, Keala was raised by his grandfather, Bill Chu, who taught him at a very young age, the technique of drawing in orthographic projection. He later learned how to incorporate shading, shadows and light to his drawings by his elementary school teacher, Mrs. Roberta Agena. He remembers the scolding he used to get from drawing his artwork on his school desk. But, he also remembers a day when she, too, actually corrected his drawing on the desk. Armed with this knowledge, Keala has been able to fulfill his lifelong preoccupation of drawing using his favorite art medium, the pencil.

Artist Statement: “Each of my creations is deep, personal, emotional expression of what I feel. To understand my art, is to understand the very unique culture I represent. I draw to express words that do not exist. My drawings are my voice.”
Website: www.theoriginalkealakai.com
Telephone: Keala Kai – 808-651-9469

Fred Tangalin
Background: I knew I had a feeling for art when I was just a kid,” Fred comments when “talking story” about his life and profession, “but . . ., like most artists, I made my living doing other things while I explored my craft.
Fred was born on Kaua’i, spent some years on O’ahu working a variety of jobs, and then found himself back on Kaua’i. “Life can be challenging,” he says with a smile, “and I’ve tried to learn something from everything. Never forget where you come from, what is really important and what isn’t.”

Fred studied extensively under the highly regarded Leonard Herbert until his mentor’s passing, and is himself now known for a finely executed, adventurous style of impressionism that brings the rich heritage of island culture and historical depth to life.

Fred’s work is noted for his approach to the building of colors, and an ability to capture the mana . . . the spirit . . . of the moment. He can often be found at one of his favorite scenic spots around Kaua’i, creating a new and unique image. His art has earned recognition throughout the Pacific Rim and is offered in finer galleries, online, and directly from the artist.
Website: www.tangalin.com
Telephone: Fred Tangalin – 808-652-8150

Miles Tanabe
Background: Miles A. Tanabe was born on the island of Oahu and grew up in the valleys above Honolulu. His father, James Tanabe was Miles’ first art teacher. Miles learned perspective drawing from his father. With this one skill, Miles was able to excel in art classes.

Artist Statement: “The expressions of my art are an attempt to convey the heartfelt emotions experienced throughout my life as a native of Hawaii. From childhood memories to adult fantasies, my quest is for the viewer to experience the same feelings and emotions that I have been fortunate to have. The viewer is invited to magically explore each expression of art to fully experience the vibrant colors, melodic soothing sounds, and sweet fragrant scents of Hawaii’s natural splendor.”
Telephone: Miles Tanabe – 808-651-8461

Glenn Ichimura
Background: Born in a remote pineapple plantation village in central Oahu, Glenn Ichimura’s artistic education began at an early age when he frequently went on “walk-a-bouts” in the hills and canyons throughout his island home. Every aspect of nature intrigued him: cloud formations, running water, fruit trees and the incomparable sunrises and sunsets of the island.

With no academic artistic training, Ichimura apprenticed for two years, learning the basics of oil painting. Later, released and ready for the world, he taught himself the disciplines of the masters, both past and present. He studied their styles and would soon develop one that he would call his own.
Artist Statement: “I believe that original paintings are creations and interpretations of an artist’s view of specific moments in time. I want my paintings to represent a past and pristine view of Kaua’i, without references to anything man-made. My voice may not be heard by the masses, but in my paintings I might touch the hearts of those who can make a difference. And in so saying, these silent reminders of conservation of our island paradise will leave the next generation with our mission statement and a challenge to do more. Enjoy your painting and be kind to nature.”
Telephone: Glenn Ichimura – 808-635-2411

Neal Matsuyama
Background: “I thank God for giving me the talent to paint His creations,” says local artist Neal Matsuyama. Born and raised on the island of Kaua’i has given Neal many opportunities to paint outdoors and capture the beauty of nature on canvas.

His special talents were recognized at the early age of 12 when he was selected to take a home instruction course. Later he studied drawing and sculpting at Leeward Community College and watercolors and acrylics at Kaua’i Community College.

Artist Statement: “For me to paint anything with emotional feelings I would have to be on with nature. So I ride horses in the mountains, pick opihi (shellfish) and limu (seaweed) and go on location to feel the power of the ocean and the elements of the land. I want my viewers to feel this experience with me.”
Website: www.nealmatsuyama.com
Telephone: Neal Matsuyama -808- 822-2140

Kerry Oda
Background: Kerry Oda is a simple, modest man who was born and raised on the island of Kaua’i. He has been photographing his island home for more than 20 years. Kerry’s love and appreciation for this special, magical island is captured in the spectacular images he photographs. Over the years, these timeless images have been well received and admired by many locals and visitors alike. Ask Kerry how he does it, and the humble, almost shy reply is, “it’s not that hard.”

After years of working with the County of Kaua’i, Kerry was urged by family and friends to turn his hobby of picture taking into a full-time profession. Living on Kaua’i, Kerry knows that you have to wait for the right day, the right moment . . . or just be lucky.

He is currently using the Contax medium format camera, with the Kodak DCS ProBack, which accounts for the amazing detail and clarity of his photographs. Proud to be a member of the Kaua’i Made Program, Kerry is able to inform his customers that all work from image capture to print production, whether on photographic paper, or water-resistant canvas, is done on Kauai by Kerry and his family. Kerry’s believes in producing quality products at affordable prices; hence, his company name, Makana Aloha Photography, which means “Gift of Friendship”.

Artist Statement: “Every day the ancient gods and goddesses paint pictures for us. I’m just the guy who snaps the picture.”
Website: www.odazone.com
Telephone: Kerry Oda -808-652-7429

Ric Madden
Background: Growing up in the Pennsylvania country, Ric first learned to appreciate the beauty of nature. He started drawing at the early age of 6. He later took the only art class his high school offered for three years.
Finding work as a graphic designer, Ric won an award from the American Paperrmaker Association for “Best Letterhead Design of the Year”. Ric has also done work in advertising and publishing.
Moving from one mainland state to another, Ric eventually settled in Hawaii, on the island of Kaua’i, Ric finds inspiration from the tropical landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands. Working primarily from memory, his watercolors possess an inspirational, almost dreamlike quality. His subject matter encompasses landscapes, portraits, dreamscapes and the incredibly lush flora and fauna. Ric’s style of art is constantly evolving. He enjoys watercolors for their purity and simplicity.

Artist Statement: “This island with its lush beauty and gentle people is a constant source of inspiration to me. It is a truly magical place. To be able to share this with others, through my images, gives me great satisfaction and fulfillment in my life. It is my hope that people, when viewing my work, will recognize in it some part of themselves that reflect our perfect idea of paradise and the spirit of aloha.”
Website: www.ricmadden.com
Telephone: Ric Madden (808) 822-7406