Naia Nakai has been a dedicated painter since 1985. Born into a family of gifted artists, she cultivated her creative talents early on and later earned an art degree from CSUC. After moving to Maui in 1992, she found endless inspiration in the breathtaking landscapes and marine life on the island. Whether on land or beneath the ocean’s surface, she is constantly moved by Hawaii’s natural beauty and feels called to share it with others through her art.

Naia captains her own boat into the deep blue Pacific to witness whales, dolphins, turtles and all varieties of reef fish. These experiences have become a catalyst for expressing the joy and peace that emanates from her work. Being on and underwater has become so much a part of her that she is able to capture not only what it looks like, but what it actually feels like. This feeling of connection is universal and so needed in an age where screen time compels our attention in today's technology-driven world.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Naia serves as a board member for Art Maui, where she works to support and empower local artists, helping them realize their creative dreams.

Details

Lineage 20" x 16"

Oil on canvas