Saturday, February 2, 2013

en plein aire/February

Aloha Artists, Aloha February! Well, the fair February is upon us, and weather wise we can look forward to some variable conditions. It's the time of year to expect a bit of action from the North Pacific. In Hawai'i these conditions translate to chilly temps and pushy pressure systems, which can  halt our trade winds. No trade winds mean that windward Big Island can experience a mixed bag of vog, chilly winds, big rain, weird drought, and Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa could get snow. Another issue of note, for the Plein Air Artists of Hawaii Island, is that our group has been evolving from strong early morning sessions, to more of an after noon flow. It's really is up to you, but if you're looking forward to working with others, try the afternoon. If you're a self starter, and like solitude, then the morning may be your time. The peace and the gentle ways of the early day are really worth the effort, but the camaraderie of the group may be what your after. The mornings atmospheric colors are hard to beat, and in my experience, the only other time of day that presents similar conditions is the much loved "lavender hour" (just before sunset).  Another option is to do an all day gig. A most splendid way to spend a day, immersed "en plein aire. As a plein air artist, you should be able to set up and paint solo, but if the group is what your after, then make it a point to get to know the other outdoors artists, and set a time to meet. 
p.s. Gerald Murai shoud be back soon.... :)
 pau. AM
 FEBRUARY SCHEDULE- every thursday a new location
7- WAI'ULI- Keaukaha, Hilo "Lele'iwi"- Kalaniana'ole Ave. to the park just before Richardson's. 5 pavilions in a row, lg. parking area, facilities. Forever Views. Our place to begin each month.
14-ISSAC HALE BEACH PARK-Lower Puna, Pohoiki, Pahoa area, Take Hwy 132 from Pahoa, heading toward Kapoho. Just after Lava Tree park, upon exiting the tree tunnel, the road forks, keep to the right, heading towards Pohoiki.  Drive with caution, this is a winding road with the occasional giant Mango tree in the center of the road. There's also the "surfer factor", which means you need to watch out for them bombing the road back into town. Anyhow at the bottom (ocean), turn to your left and look for the painters tucked into the trees. Life guard stand, Pavilions, and lovely ocean views. A great escape from the norm. Facilities.
21-KEOKEA POINT, "baby beach", Keaukaha, Hilo- Kalaniana'ole Ave., to Keokea Loop Rd. Turn left (makai), take the first right turn, Apapane Rd. then your first left, Lihikai Rd. drive to the end, and turn into the parking area. Sweet tide pools, occasional point waves, and nice bay views. Shade trees, small beaches you can walk to. No facilities. Bring your own water.
28-GALLERY TOULOUCE- Onomea, Scenic Route, Hamakua district. From Hilo, take the Hamakua Hwy, & turn makai on Mamalahoa Hwy (aka-Onomea Scenic Route) About 2 miles down on the ocean side, you'll see a charming old bldg, Gallery Toulouce. Run by Diane Renchler, it's always a fun day. Fabulous views and whales. Sweet gardens, interesting old plantation structures, surrounded by giant trees, and sweeping views. Diane is a great hostess, and sometimes spins some great tunes, or joins us. Facilities.