By Darla McCammon

Now that our days are growing longer again how about escaping these cold dark days to take a magical trip with me to a warm place? That warm place is a State in our Union, one of the most beautiful islands in the world. We will also visit Kyoko Ishigami, the artist with the musical name. Most of us will remember Kyoto Japan. Our artist for discussion this week was born in Kyoto. We are not sure if her first name, Kyoko, was influenced by her city of birth. While growing up in Japan she became a teacher.

Later as a teacher, she taught English as a second language to the children when she lived in Tokyo, Japan. Even back then she was developing her creativity and her art expertise. About 19 years ago Ishigami moved to Kauai, Hawaii. Are you warming up yet? Who could not be enthralled with the beauty of Kauai? It certainly impressed this teacher-turned-artist!  Her work is beautiful as demonstrated in this example of her ability. See Hanalei Overview for a view that opens our door to the work of Ishigami.

Ishigami works primarily in oil on canvas and also has become very creative with the art of ceramics. You can learn more about her at www.kyokoishigami.com and see more of her stunning artwork.

This artist has taken a cue from many artists of history who learned their craft by studying under a master artist. She has had the luxury many of those ancient artists did not have—the ability to easily travel long distances. She has studied under master artists in Europe, Japan, and the U.S. Ishigami also has a home on Kauai as well as a residence in North Hollywood, California. Her gallery on Kauai can be found on the North Shore of Kauai in Princeville. She is a member of many prestigious art organizations and her work can be found in many collections around the world.

Ishigami’s web site talks about her creativity: “Kyoko’s inspiration comes when she is immersed in nature, and she strives to capture its breathtaking beauty and the fleeting light with her impressionistic style as in Plein Air Painting.”

Next week we will take you more in-depth to the developing art mecca with a deeper look at the island of Kauai.  Come back for a trip to a beautifully warm climate!  

  Upcoming and Current Events:

• LAA Gallery will be closed for winter break. We will notify you when it re-opens.
• LAA Gallery hours are 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call (574) 267-5568 with questions.  Entry is always free.
• The new Susan Ring exhibit opens in the Warsaw City Hall Gallery Jan. 6. Free admission to this two-room exhibit. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Closed holidays.
• We are open to accepting future exhibitors at City Hall Art Gallery. Please email a short biography and photos of two of your artworks along with your contact information to: [email protected] or leave a message at (574) 527-4044.