I was thinking and about a concept from my recent trip to the Big Island Hawaii but couldn't think of any ideas but the literal - plumeria flowers, pineapples, loco mocos, beaches, sun, mai tais.
Sigh...
I tried pulling ideas from my trip to the lava tubes and tours seeing live, hot, molten lava...I just didn't have a creative concept. Finally, over the past few days I've been exploring gems, diamonds and simply the way they sparkle. The idea came from the visit I had from the Tiffany's in Hawaii. Gems are such a beautiful thing, luxurious, natural and vibrant. In addition to that, I had a memorable trip to the Big Island Abalone Farm where I was given a interesting lesson about the harvesting of Japanese abalone. Many farmers, students and travelers come here to learn about the mysterious abalone. The farm also works with many of the local hotels such as the Four Seasons who source abalone for their kitchens. My parents love this delicacy so I decided to buy some live, fresh abalone to take back home. I remember having this huge abalone shell from when I was girl and marveling over it's wonderful swirl of colors and metallic designs.
I thought, I would again blend two objects that seemingly don't go together into a memorable watercolor painting of my memory of Hawaii. Non traditional. Playful. Yet perfectly imperfect.
Enjoy :) (Try abalone esp if you haven't before)