Featured Cover Artist: Lisa Bunge
Lisa Bunge grew up in Orange County, CA and came to Hawai‘i in 1984 from Austin, TX. After many years living so far from the ocean, she fell in love with Kailua-Kona when she came to help with her friends sailing charter business on the vessel Kahua o‘Malio. Lisa became one of Kona’s first female captains and even captained for the Fair Wind for a number of years.
“I knew from the day I could hold the first crayon that art was all I really ever wanted to do.”
Lisa’s first art sale was at a reception hosted by Aunty Carol and Uncle Bob Rogers at the former Kona Art Center in Hōlualoa in 1992.
“I am still so grateful for them creating such an awesome place to go and explore who I was as an artist when I first started to concentrate seriously on my art. They really gave me the confidence I needed to move forward with launching my art career.”
One mentor who continues to inspire and influence Lisa’s art is Chee Cha Smith.
“She pushes me to go beyond my comfort level—to see the world and my interpretation of it in a way that I would not otherwise have. I owe her so much for her influence on my art.”
From the flora and fauna of nature, to visiting a historic spot, to watching hula, a fisherman, or a paddler out at sea, Lisa explains, “The energy here on Hawai‘i Island as well as its cultural and visual diversity leaves me with an unending source of inspiration.”
Then the fun begins while deciding which technique and medium will best suit the subject. Oil, acrylic, and watercolor are her artistic mediums of choice. At times she’ll experiment with different media, such as paper she’s made from wauke or other local plant materials, and occasionally even painting on silk.
Some paintings are meticulously planned, while others are free flowing, loose pieces that seem to create themselves. There is a contrast of action and stillness, light and shadow, color from nature and imagination, and realism versus abstract renderings.
Lisa’s art is constantly evolving and new things are always in the works.
“I am compelled to keep creating. Creativity seems to be my only option as I continue my journey as an artist. I get spiritual fulfillment from it.”
At this time, Lisa is in the process of building a new studio after a recent move to Keauhou mauka from Kalaoa.
In her temporary studio, you will find an antique sign advertising her grandfather’s painting service. He owned a paint store before there were seven digits in phone numbers.
Her handmade desk is surrounded by giant windows giving her a view of bamboo, the birds living in it, and mauka to a view of Hualālai.
When she’s not creating art, Lisa enjoys the ocean, hiking, gardening, or just enjoying time with family and friends. ❖
Contact Lisa Bunge: LisaBunge.com, 808.325.6519.
