Hawai‘i artist Stephen Sands enjoys travel as much as he does painting, which is why he always carries his paints and brushes wherever he goes, he said.
His artwork is lively and fresh, his fans say, with Sands adding that is because, primarily, it’s painted on location.
“I need to see the whole picture in order to recreate the colors and capture the mood,” explained Sands.
Ship Store Galleries owners have exhibited the work of the Big Island artist for over a decade, and each year hold at least one show to unveil new oil paintings, mostly of Kaua‘i.
This year’s exhibition runs through March 3, with a special reception for the artist on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Coconut Marketplace in Waipouli.
“Stephen has spent a lot of time on the island getting ready for this show, and we’re excited about what he’s accomplished,” said Fred von Wiegen, co-owner of the Eastside gallery, in a press release.
Sands, who is nearing his 70th birthday, can paint in several different styles, but is best known for his realistic compositions of scenic locations in Hawai‘i, von Wiegen explained.
He is also adept at and enjoys painting impressionistic views, a style that lends itself well to his plein-air approach, von Wiegen added.
He applies layers of oil paint with a quick brushstroke to create texture and dimension, and typically writes a brief description of the scene on the reverse side of the canvas. The upcoming exhibition will feature paintings that depict waterfalls, island landscapes and seascapes.
Sands is fidgety without a paintbrush in his hand, which is why he usually brings his supplies to his shows for an impromptu painting demonstration, von Wiegen said.
With practically a half-century of professional experience, he creates paintings with an ease that is amazing to witness.
Sands has taught art to hundreds of aspiring artists over the years, and enjoys discussing his style and technique with anyone who expresses an interest.
For more information about the Sands exhibition, stop by Ship Store Galleries at the Coconut Marketplace on Kuhio Highway in Waipouli, or call 822-4999 to learn more about the artist’s reception.
More information is also available at www.shipstoregalleries.com.
