* * * Island Dream Life * * *

KAUAI a' la Plein Air !

2012-01-27T10:39:00.028-10:00

This post is a little late, but I just came across these pics and thought it would be fun to include them in my blog.

Last June, we got to visit the island of Kauai.
I had recently been introduced to plein air painting and thought this trip would be a wonderful way to gain more experience in my new endeavor. Kauai is such a beautiful place, so tropical and green. Who wouldn’t want to be outdoors, soaking it all in?

My first stop was actually a place along the side of the road between Anini Beach and Kalihiwai Bay. From this point, there was a view of the Kileaua Lighthouse in the far background, and beautiful rugged cliffs skirting the coast.

We had to scramble down a few large boulders to reach a small sandy area, but since this was not an actual beach park, we had the place to ourselves for the afternoon.

Luckily, the tide was out, but by the time I finished this painting, we had just minutes to pack up and scurry back up the rocky jetty before the incoming tide washed me and my paints away!

Kalihiwai Bay/Anini Beach w/ Kileaua Lighthouse
Painted June 6, 2011

Two days later, we woke up early and headed out looking for something interesting to paint. As we drove past Nawilili Harbor, I found a scene that caught my eye.
This was the view from the 7th hole of the golf course at the Kauai Marriott.

I was allowed to set up my easel in the turn-around area for the golf carts. It was a perfect, peaceful place to paint, and not too crowded, just the occasional golfers.

In the tree above me was an adorable White Rumped Shama Thrush ! Have you heard these birds sing? It is the most beautiful sound, (they are definitely one of my favorite singing birds in the Islands), and I was so thrilled to have him there belting out melody after melody as I painted!
O.K, so this is not the most appealing photo of our beautiful Shama (poor gecko) but he did sound lovely when he wasn't busy regurgitating a meal for his babies in the nest above us!

Nawiliwili Harbor from the 7th hole, Kauai Marriott
Painted June 8, 2011

After another few days, we decided to drive up north to
Hanalei Bay. We got there early and pretty much had the place to ourselves. It was kind of cold and rainy but it was still beautiful in the early morning mist.

I set up my easel right next to the car. Talk about convenience! This is a plein air painters dream! Not having to lug everything to your desired location, and Brighton got to hang out in the rental car comfortably, as the morning was quite chilly. He seemed to enjoy watching me paint.
"Hurry up and finish, Mom, so we can go SURF!"

I did end up getting blasted by two major downpours during this painting episode, but luckily, I had remembered to pack a large umbrella which saved the day! The showers passed as quickly as they came, and I painted on with no damage done!

Hanalei Pier
Painted June 10, 2011

Hanalei Bay is such a gorgeous place, it feels almost magical. I wish we could have spent more time there. When we returned home and I took a good look at my Hanalei plein air, I could remember the exact feelings I had while painting this scene. It inspired me to do a palette knife painting using this piece as my inspiration --- and inspire me, it did. To this day, the Hanalei palette knife painting that I did after we returned is one of my favorites!
"Misty~cal Morning At Hanalei Bay, KAUAI"
11x14 palette knife painting

I hope you have enjoyed my Kauai plein air adventures. Although I have just started, I am completely hooked on plein air. I will be posting more of my “outings” when I can find the time. Until then, I will be out and about, searching for more gorgeous sites to put on canvas. It’s not too difficult to do when you live in Paradise!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.
ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Back to the Brush

2012-01-20T09:56:00.011-10:00

I usually prefer to paint with just my single trusty palette knife, but every once in a while, I get my brushes out and see what happens. It is much easier to get the shapes and details you want with a brush, but the palette knife paintings just seem to have more “personality”.

Here are a few mini (4x6) brush paintings of the islands of Oahu and Maui.
I would be interested to know which style you prefer.

Makapu'u Lighthouse Oahu, Hawaii

Lanikai from Kailua Beach Oahu, Hawaii

Kamaole Beach Kihei, Maui

Polo Beach Wailea, Maui

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MORE OF MAUI... and a happy little pup

2012-01-18T05:31:00.016-10:00

We recently spent some time on the beautiful island of Maui,
where I got to do a lot of plein-air painting.
(Hopefully I can blog about that when I get some free time.)
But for now, here are a few of my recent palette knife paintings of this gorgeous island. Can’t wait to go back some day!

This scene resembles the painting in my previous post, and that is because it is the same “Polo Beach” in Wailea on the south side of Maui. This is such a scenic beach and a lot of fun to paint.

Pa’ako Beach, also known as “Secret Cove” (which is a silly name because it is not all that secret!) is a wonderful place to spend the day. Tourists will “pop in” to have a look and take a few pictures, but most of them do not stay long. Many weddings take place in this “secret cove” and we saw one while we were there.

This is Kamaole Beach in Kihei, Maui. There are actually three Kamaole Beach Parks that stretch the coast of Kihei (Kamaole I, II, III). We spent many evenings walking these beautiful beaches with our little pup, Brighton. He was so happy to get to go along to Maui with us. His favorite part of the trip was spending time on the beach, making friends wherever he went!
This scene is from the Kamaole II beach, near the “Royal Mauian” and “Hale Pau Hana” resorts.

You would have a difficult time finding a happier "Maui Dawg" !

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

POLO BEACH ~ MAUI

2012-01-12T10:28:00.007-10:00

This is Polo Beach on the island of Maui, Hawaii.
This beautiful beach can be found on the resorty Wailea Makena south side of the island, and can be somewhat crowded, but the amazing views make it worth it!

"Polo Beach"
is one of my original 6x12, one of a kind, palette knife oil paintings.

It is painted on a gallery wrapped canvas, and the painting continues around the edges, so there is no need for a frame if you do not want one.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

DREAMING OF PARADISE

2012-01-12T10:24:00.002-10:00

Palm tree covered remote tropical islands.
Dreaming doesn't get much better than this!

"Dreaming Of Paradise"
is one of my original 10x20, one of a kind, palette knife oil paintings.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Sunrises, Whale Tails, & Another Painting

2012-01-04T15:11:00.005-10:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I hope 2012 is off to a great start for you!

What a wonderful first four days of the new year I have had – painting and surfing every single day! Our island has been experiencing a bad case of VOG (similar to smog , but caused by the volcano - not people - pollution) the past few days. The mountains can hardly be seen, but the vog makes for some UNREAL BEAUTIFUL sunrises and sunsets!

Since we like to surf very early in the morning to avoid the crowds, we are usually paddling out before the sun comes up. And then… there it is! A HUGE bright red round ball popping up above the horizon!
"AMAZING" is all you can think! And to make it even more magical, we have lately been entertained by playful humpback whales breaching in the distance.

I am very thankful to be living in such a gorgeous place, doing what I LOVE to do each and every day ! This wonderful early morning surf image has been ingrained in my mind. Maybe one day I will try to recreate it on canvas, but until then….

here is one of my latest palette knife paintings.

Have a great day! Aloha.

This is an original palette knife oil paintings of the Portlock area of Hawaii Kai, located on the south east end of the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
The extinct volcanic crater in the background is Koko Head.
Just beyond that lies the magical underwater nature preserve of Hanauma Bay.

Portlock is a very desirable area to live, with homes on and near the water in a beautiful tropical setting. And when the surf is up, "China Walls" located just off the point, is a great place to catch some awesome lefts!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

A SWELL DAY FOR SURFING

2011-12-28T03:00:00.007-10:00

Since I had such a fun time painting “Contemplating”,
I decided to do the same scene again, but this time with a couple of blondies,
and both with boards in tow.

A surfer couple sit high above the thundering waves that roll in from a freak south swell. As they finish up their lunch, they have to decide if they want to hit the monster surf below, potentially risking life and limb for an epic surf day, or to stay and enjoy the magic of Mother Nature's show from their safe, dry, vantage point.
Of course you know they ended up going!
Cowabunga, dude!

"A Swell Day For Surfing"
is an original 16x20 palette knife painting,
and can be found HERE.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

2011-12-25T11:40:00.004-10:00

HOMEWARD BOUND

2011-12-22T16:29:00.009-10:00

The sea birds of Hawaii have their very own bit of Paradise, making their nesting sites in the sheer cliffs high above the churning sea below.

"Homeward Bound"
is one of my original 10x20, one of a kind, palette knife oil paintings.

The inspiration for this painting was an early morning surf session I had a few months ago. As I paddled out at sunrise, there was a constant stream of beautiful white seabirds flying along the shallows, parallel with the coastline. They all headed to the same place, the Makapu’u cliffs and Manana Island, which is a seabird sanctuary. The entire time I was out there, the trail of birds never ended. Some flying low, and so near, they almost buzzed my head! They were fun to watch.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

CONTEMPLATING

2011-12-16T10:53:00.009-10:00

In keeping with the spirit of my
“Santa’s Gone Surfin’ Sale” on Etsy,
I recently listed my newest surf-themed painting.

It is an original 16 x 20 palette knife oil painting titled
“Contemplating”.

This was so much fun to paint!

A surfer dude and his girlfriend sit high above the thundering surf that rolls in from a freak south swell. He has tough decision ahead of him. To bail out on his girl and hit the monster waves, potentially risking life and limb for an epic surf day, or to stay and enjoy the magic of Mother Nature's show with the one he loves.

The inspiration for this painting came from an actual freak south swell we had here on the island of Oahu in September 2011. They called it the "South Swell Of The Decade" and it caused quite a buzz. This painting was done from a photo I took at the Diamond Head lookout near evening. People in Hawaii love their giant surf, even if they are not out in it. It is pretty amazing to watch!

Detail of the texture of my palette knife wave:

"Contemplating" can be found HERE.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SANTA's GONE SURFIN'

2011-12-15T10:41:00.010-10:00

My SANTA'S GONE SURFIN' SALE is going on now!

Santa is having too much fun surfin' the North Shore of Hawaii this Christmas, so you'll have to find your own special gifts.

Mele Kalikimaka from the Land Of ALOHA!
Lisabongzee

Click on the SALE button below to check out my
ISLAND DREAM LIFE PAINTINGS.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MYSTIC ISLES

2011-12-14T10:52:00.009-10:00

Out in the vast Pacific Ocean, there are still hidden jems of secluded tropical Islands to be discovered by the lucky few who take the time to seek them out.

"Mystic Isles"
is one of my original 10x20, one of a kind, palette knife oil paintings.
It is available HERE.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ROOM WITH A VIEW

2011-12-12T04:45:00.005-10:00

“Room With A View”
was created completely from my imagination.
I often dream of an idealic Paradise with soaring velvet green mountains, sparkling waterfalls, swaying palm trees, and lush tropical foliage. My small thatched tiki hut sits positioned to provide a perfect view of the gorgeous turquoise waters of the vast Pacific.
It never hurts to dream big!

“Room With A View”
is one of my largest palette knife paintings to date.
It measures 30” x 24” and comes framed.
It is available through
Island Treasures Art Gallery in Kailua, Hawaii.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

LUMAHAI BEACH ~ KAUAI, HAWAII

2011-12-06T10:24:00.009-10:00

I love vacationing on the outer-islands in the Hawaiian chain. Each has it’s own special features that make it different from the others.
The plane ride is short, but it can make you feel like you are a world away!

Last summer, we spent some time on the gorgeous island of Kauai.
It is one of the most beautiful, lush, green, tropical places on earth! One of the beaches we visited was Lumahai Beach, on the North Shore.
It was a perfect day, and we practically had the place all to ourselves! I guess there are still some (somewhat) hidden Paradises to be found after all!

“Perfect Day At Hanalei ~~ Lumahai Beach, Kauai”

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Red Sky At Night.... Sailor's Delight

2011-11-30T10:56:00.003-10:00

Just sailing along thru Paradise!

"Red Sky At Night" is an original 4x4 mini oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

CALM WATERS

2011-10-17T10:37:00.004-10:00

This is a painting I did a while ago, but somehow didn’t feel that it was quite finished, although I couldn’t figure out what it needed for sure. Then one day (probably when trying to clean up my studio), I put it away and forgot all about it. I recently came across the painting again, and decided now, after not seeing it for a while, that I really liked it, and there was nothing I wanted to change about it. I decided that it was, in fact, finished.

To my surprise, “Calm Waters” sold in less than 3 days, becoming one of the fastest sales I have made in awhile.
(Maybe I should clean up my studio more often!)

SOLD

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ANOTHER PERFECT ENDING

2011-10-14T10:21:00.007-10:00

I can’t think of a better way to end another perfect day in Paradise!
ALOHA!

"Another Perfect Ending" is an original 4x4 mini oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

LAZY AFTERNOON BREEZE

2011-09-08T17:15:00.004-10:00

A pair of palms sway gently in the breeze, high above the tropical bird-of-paradise, overlooking the gorgeous turquoise seas.
What a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.

"Lazy Afternoon Breeze"
is an original 6x12, one of a kind, palette knife oil painting.
It comes professionally framed in a tropical bamboo style, ready to hang.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Just Another Plein Ol’ Weekend

2011-08-29T10:04:00.014-10:00

Last weekend the weather was gorgeous, and I wasn’t about to waste it staying indoors. I decided to work on my plein air skills once again.

This beautiful little park overlooking the water looks like it might work.

It felt great just to be outdoors. It was nice and cool, the birds were singing, the view was beautiful, and I was doing what I love!

Another plein air painting finished with still a bit of evening left!

Brighton is friendly with the ducks and is waiting for them to come over and say "Aloha"!

Good thing I had him on a leash or he would have been in the water swimming around with them!

Being a painter makes me realize even more just how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ORANGE CRUSH

2011-08-26T09:55:00.006-10:00

I can’t seem to get enough of these little sunset tiki surf paintings.
ALOHA!

A surfer's perfect day ends with a brilliant tropical sunset.
Life can't get any better than this!

"Orange Crush" is an original 8x10 oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

CIGAR BOX PAINTING

2011-08-25T13:07:00.019-10:00

A few months ago I started plein air painting (painting outdoors). It is not as easy as it might look. For me, it is more difficult to judge the colors and values in real life, than from a still (and never changing) photo. Trying to capture the moment on canvas in a short amount of time is a challenge, but just being outdoors makes it so worth it.

For doing quick paintings without having to lug around a lot of supplies, I made a little pochade box out of a wooden cigar box. No, I don’t smoke cigars, I don’t know how I acquired this box, but it works perfectly. It holds my small brushes, palette of paints, and my 5x7 size canvas, all together. I can take it just about anywhere.

Here are a few pics of my latest plein air cigar box painting adventures.

This is a view from Sandy Beach, on the east side of Oahu. It was early evening, and the sky kept changing, along with the shadows in the bushes and the reflection on the water.

Hard at work with my little assistant, Brighton.
He always inspires me.

Luckily, I was able to finish before the sun went down.

My first plein air cigar box painting.
"Sandy Beach Bench - May 19, 2011"

A few days later, we stopped at the Hawaii Kai Towne Center. It is located on Koko Marina, and there was a nice shady little place behind the buildings, overlooking the marina.

We spent the afternoon there. Dean kept Brighton and I entertained by playing the uke. Perfect Hawaiian music to paint to!

My little cigar pochade box works great!
Koko Head in the distance with the Marina in the foreground.
May 21, 2011

Then, last weekend, we took a drive up to the North Shore.
The weather wasn't all that great, but I still took my little cigar box along.
We decided to stop for lunch at the "Shrimp Shack".
We have passed by it several times before, and it always looks busy, but we had never tried it.

What a cute place, and the owner was so nice. Maybe one day, I will paint this little truck, but for now, I will take an order of the COCONUT SHRIMP! My favorite!

Brighton says "Hey Mom, don't forget to order me some too!"

The coconut shrimp was really good, and the locally grown North Shore Kahuku corn was so sweet!

We continued on, stopping at Turtle Bay.
I decided to paint this little green beach shack and umbrellas that lined the beach there.
(That sky doesn't look too promising!)

Unfortunately, the weather didn't want to cooperate too much, and we got dumped on at least three times, making for an interesting painting outing. Good thing we remembered our umbrellas. We just had to hunker down and wait it out. It eventually passed and would clear for about 15 minutes before the next set of black clouds rolled in.

This scene kept changing, as the beach attendants kept raising and lowering the umbrellas, and opening and closing up the little beach shack, depending on the weather conditions. One minute the beach would be packed with people, and then the rain would empty the place. I decided to leave the people out of the painting.

Turtle Bay Beach Scene
August 20, 2011

Well, that is a sample of a few of my cigar pochade box paintings. I hope you enjoyed seeing how they were created as much as I enjoyed painting them!
Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TROPICAL SUNSET ACEO's

2011-08-22T13:22:00.004-10:00

Aloha!

I’ve been working on some new Tropical Sunset ACEO’s.
I love how the bright oranges and yellows POP against the black. It really gives it a feeling of warmth and sunlight.

ACEO’s are a great way to collect original art at an affordable price.

You can check them out
HERE.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PERFECT sunSET OF THE DAY

2011-08-16T16:47:00.007-10:00

I recently got back into surfing again, and I realize just how much I missed it. Being out in the ocean brings me complete contentment. I love the smell of salt water in my hair and the feel of the sun warming my face as I sit out there, bobbing on my board, thinking of nothing but the best way to catch a few awesome waves! I think I must have been a dolphin in a former life!

“Perfect sun~Set Of The Day” is my latest original oil.

The perfect glassy set of the day rolls in just before the sun says "Aloha" for the evening. It's your last chance to catch that perfect wave!

"Perfect sun~Set Of The Day"
is an original 24x12 oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HENRY's FISHIN' HOLE

2011-08-12T11:45:00.007-10:00

“Henry’s Fishin’ Hole”
is one of my original oil paintings, depicting fishermen spending the day on the abandoned boat harbor pier of Henry J. Kaiser. This pier is located on the former “Kaiser Estate”, a 5 ½ acre oceanfront parcel of gorgeous island land. Henry J. Kaiser was most well known for developing the Hawaii Kai community, on the east side of Oahu, Hawaii.

The pier is a great fishing spot, and many locals catch their weekend dinner here! The Kaiser Estate has changed hands many times, and if you happen to have an extra $80 MILLION lying around, this beautiful little pier could be your very own!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ZEPHYR IN THE TROPICS

2011-08-11T10:27:00.015-10:00

A lady in Florida recently commissioned me to do a very special piece for her, as a gift to her husband. He was graduating from the Naval Academy, and she thought an original painting would be a perfect way to celebrate his great accomplishment.

The love of their lives is their sailboat, Zephyr, so she wanted an original oil painting of their boat. She couldn’t figure out exactly what type of setting, so we decided that since they love Hawaii so much, why not put Zephyr in a tropical island setting.

It was a bit of a challenge for her to send me photos of the sailboat and communicate what she wanted without her husband finding out, but somehow everything worked out great. She is such an easy-going, likeable person, it made my job easy!

“Zephyr In The Tropics”
was finally finished.

When she presented the painting to her husband, she told me that he almost shed a tear. I was happy to hear that he loved the painting, but I am sure the emotion really came from him thinking what a wonderful wife he had, to take the time to think up such a meaningful, one-of-a-kind gift made especially for him.

“Zephyr In The Tropics” was a fun piece to work on, and having it set in a tropical paradise is what I always enjoy painting most! We personalized it just a bit more by “carving” their initials into the trunk of a palm tree. It is not noticeable right off, but as your eye wanders around the painting a bit, you finally notice that little detail that makes the painting all the more special.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

LAST NIGHT IN PARADISE

2011-08-02T15:54:00.008-10:00

A couple in love sit together under the swaying palms, soaking in their last gorgeous sunset in Paradise.

But they will return some day.....

SOLD

"Last Night In Paradise"
is an original 6x6 oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SURFER's DREAM OFFICE

2011-07-29T12:28:00.005-10:00

What surfer wouldn't dream of having a work office like this?
A thatched tiki hut beneath the tropical palms, overlooking the perfect sets as they roll in throughout the day.

This is a nine-to-five I could get used to real quick!

"Surfer’s Dream Office"
is an original framed 6x12 palette knife oil painting.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MISTY~CAL MORNING AT HANALEI BAY

2011-07-15T09:45:00.011-10:00

This is one of my latest original palette knife oil paintings titled
"Misty-cal Morning At Hanalei Bay".

The inspiration for this painting was a recent (wonderful) vacation I took to the island of Kauai.
Early one morning, I stopped at Hanalei Bay, on the north side of the island. The day was just waking up and the morning mist was slowly disappearing. The overcast sky was clearing, ready to start another perfect day in Paradise.
It was truly Misty-cal !

This piece comes professionally framed and ready to hang.

"Misty-cal Morning At Hanalei Bay" would make a great one of a kind ORIGINAL gift for anyone who loves the gorgeous island of Kauai!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TROPIC EVENING BLISS

2011-07-11T16:33:00.004-10:00

I was quite pleased with how this piece turned out.

"Tropic Evening Bliss"
is an original 6x12, one of a kind, palette knife oil painting. It comes professionally framed in a tropical bamboo style, ready to hang.

A pair of palms against a dramatic evening sky, whose colors dance along the surface of the tropical sea.
Pure bliss!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MOKULUA SAIL

2011-07-08T10:21:00.004-10:00

"Mokulua Sail"
is an original framed 8x10 palette knife oil painting.
Spend a perfectly enchanting Hawaiian evening sailing out to the beautiful Mokulua Islands located off of Lanikai Beach in Kailua, Hawaii, and you may never want to go back home!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Perfect Tradewinds Of Waikiki

2011-06-30T16:55:00.004-10:00

"Perfect Tradewinds Of Waikiki"
is an original framed 8x10 palette knife oil painting.
What could be better than spending the day sailing along the coast of the world famous landmark of Waikiki, Diamond Head. Located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

YELLOW HIBISCUS

2011-05-20T15:10:00.006-10:00

Yellow Hibiscus are the State Flower of Hawaii. Their bright sunshiny color always makes me happy.

Click Here for Yellow Hibiscus

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS 5 ACEO

2011-05-16T10:52:00.002-10:00

Number 5 teeny tiny Hibiscus.

HIBISCUS 5 ACEO

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS 4 ACEO

2011-05-05T08:31:00.003-10:00

Teeny Tiny Hibiscus Number 4

Click Here for Hibiscus 4 ACEO

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

EVENING HIBISCUS

2011-05-03T08:46:00.004-10:00

As the day comes to an end in Hawaii, the glowing white Hibiscus shine through the darkness one last time before closing up for the night.

SOLD

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MAHALO to "For The Love Of Pete"

2011-05-01T06:57:00.006-10:00

"My Secret Island" ACEO
has been featured in For The Love Of Pete's "Fantastic Finds". Valerie is one of the many great friends I have met through Etsy, and besides making awesome tropical barkcloth bags and purses, she is a great writer.

I enjoy reading her blog, and seeing what mischief her new little pup, Kona, is always getting into.

Check out her blog "For The Love Of Pete".

And visit her Etsy shop to see her awesome barkcloth bag creations. Find the perfect accessory for your next Hawaiian vacation!

Mahalo Valerie!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS 3 ACEO

2011-04-26T09:51:00.006-10:00

Here is the third in my teeny tiny Hibiscus series.
I'm having a lot of fun with these!
ALOHA!

HIBISCUS 3 ACEO

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS 2 ACEO

2011-04-18T11:07:00.004-10:00

Second in my teeny tiny Hibiscus series.
ALOHA!

HIBISCUS 2 ACEO

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS 1 ACEO

2011-04-15T14:39:00.003-10:00

The first in my teeny tiny Hibiscus series.

HIBISCUS 1 ACEO

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIBISCUS

2011-04-14T10:33:00.006-10:00

I've decided to change up my subject matter this week, and went from landscapes, to painting the beautiful Hibiscus that are blooming in my garden. They are fun to paint, and I love the delicate ruffly petals.

Here is one of my finished Hibiscus... more to come!

SOLD

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PARADISE HIDEAWAY

2011-04-05T11:01:00.005-10:00

Somewhere out there lies a hidden Paradise with crystal clear warm turquoise waters, waves lapping gently to the shore, and the light breeze rustling through the palms. With the exception of a few migratory seabirds stopping by for a quick break before moving on, the place is yours, and yours alone to enjoy completely.

This is one of my original oil paintings titled
"Paradise Hideaway".

It is a triptych measuring 33 x 14.
It consists of three 11x14x3/4 gallery wrapped canvases.
They have been painted on all edges, so no need for a frame.

"Paradise Hideaway" would make a great one of a kind ORIGINAL gift for anyone who loves the tropics!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MORNING MOORING

2011-03-31T15:58:00.004-10:00

I imagine what it would be like, waking up to the slight bobbing up and down in one of these little boats, waiting for the morning light to tell me it is time to start another wonderful day in Paradise!!

"MORNING MOORING"
is one of my original palette knife oil paintings.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

"Tropical Beauty" ACEO

2011-03-25T10:39:00.007-10:00

SOLD

"Tropical Beauty"

An original palette knife oil painting ACEO,
available in my Etsy Shop.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Stairway to Heaven....... or Hell ?!?!???!?!?!

2011-03-22T15:36:00.008-10:00

KOKO CRATER, Oahu Hawaii

This is one of my original palette knife oil paintings featuring Koko Crater, on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii. It is the tallest extinct volcano on the island, and is known for it's famous
"Railway Hike".
A very steep one mile, 1200 ft. elevation gain "steps" track, remnants of an old WWII tram system, that will take you to the top of the crater for an amazing view.
(if you can survive the lung burning cardio hike up)

SOLD

I painted this view of Koko Crater from a photo I took out on our kayak, looking in towards shore. The Portlock area homes can be seen in the foreground. Many people confuse Koko Crater with "Koko Head", but "Koko Head" is the smaller crater just south of Koko Crater, skirting Hanauma Bay.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HIDDEN TROPICS

2011-03-21T10:53:00.010-10:00

There are still some undiscovered palm lined coves out there in the vast Pacific and Atlantic oceans, just waiting for you to stumble upon. Here is your very own tropical sanctuary. It could be any Hawaiian, Tahitian, Caribbean, or South Pacific dream location you can think of!

This is one of my newest original palette knife oil paintings titled
"Hidden Tropics".

SOLD

I was particularly happy with the color variations of the palm fronds. The palette knife has an amazing way of giving an overall casual feel, but upon closer inspection, you see all the different textures and colors that give the painting much more character.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PASTEL SKIES OF WAIKIKI

2011-03-18T12:17:00.006-10:00

SOLD
"Pastel Skies Of Waikiki"
is one of my latest original framed 4x6 oil paintings.
What more perfect way to spend the day than sailing under the colorful evening skies of Waikiki, with the world famous landmark of Hawaii, Diamond Head, as your backdrop.

I enjoy working on a small scale with the palette knife. This painting was a mixture of palette knife and brush. I found that painting the sky and clouds with the knife seems to give the piece more “energy”. Maybe it is because the clouds have more thickness and texture than I could achieve only using the brush.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

DREAMSICLE SUNSET IN PARADISE

2011-03-17T10:50:00.008-10:00

This is fun sunset painting I recently finished. I thought an appropriate name for it would be
"Dreamsicle Sunset In Paradise"
because as I was mixing the beautiful array of orange colors to add into the sky, my palette resembled a melting creamy dreamsicle!!

I love to create secret little Paradise places in my mind, and this particular painting could represent any of the wonderful tropical locals on this earth. Whether it be the Caribbean, Hawaii, or somewhere deep in the South Pacific, the little tiki~style shack set on a long pier overlooking the beautiful glittering ocean is the perfect place to enjoy the evening light show of the tropics!!

"Dreamsicle Sunset In Paradise"
is a 16x20 original oil palette knife painting, and comes framed in an Island Style solid wood frame with liner.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

"Beautiful Koolau's" ACEO

2011-03-10T11:02:00.006-10:00

Here is my latest original palette knife miniature ACEO oil painting.

It is titled
"Beautiful Koolau's"
and features the breathtaking Koolau Mountain range with Chinaman's Hat in the distance and Kaneohe Bay in the foreground. Oahu, Hawaii
SOLD
I was very pleased with the detail I was able to obtain in such a small piece.
This is an actual miniature oil painting done entirely with a single palette knife.

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

DIAMOND HEAD HAWAII

2011-03-09T09:16:00.003-10:00

"Diamond Head Hawaii" is one of my original framed 4x6 palette knife paintings,
and is available HERE.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

LANIKAI SAIL

2011-03-08T09:58:00.005-10:00

Lanikai is such a gorgeous beach, with the beautiful Mokulua Islands calling you to come out for a visit. Good thing you have a sailboat, as it would be quite a swim!
SOLD
Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

"Magical View" ACEO

2011-03-07T05:33:00.010-10:00

SOLD

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TWO NEW ACEO's

2011-03-04T10:32:00.011-10:00

I have been spending the past few weeks painting up some small original ACEO's, using only my single large palette knife. It has been quite a challenge, painting so small, but also very rewarding to see the outcome. It really helps you learn to use the knife several different ways to get the results you want.

These ACEO's are actually real miniature oil paintings. I prepared, painted and preserved them just as I would my larger originals, and I am very happy with the results. Here are two that I recently finished. There are more to come.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

Diamond Head Oahu Hawaii ACEO

"My Secret Island" ACEO
SOLD

CLICK HERE to view all of my original ACEO's

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Work Day In Paradise

2011-02-26T17:16:00.008-10:00

I decided to take a break from the palette knife and do some brush painting.
We have been having perfect weather here in the Islands the past few days. Just makes you want to drop everything, head for the beach and do nothing but veg.

Tasks for the day: observe the gorgeous scenery, read your favorite book, suck up a few Island Mai Tai's, take a long nap under the shade of the swaying coconut palms.

“Work Day In Paradise” is the career I think many of us would love to have!!

"Work Day In Paradise" is one of my 8 x 10 original oil paintings.
It is available HERE.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Memories Of Kahala

2011-02-11T16:23:00.006-10:00

SOLD

The beach at the Kahala Hotel & Resort on Oahu is a great place to spend the day. It is quite scenic, with it’s turquoise calm waters and picture perfect little palm tree island. In the distance, you can see the looming craters of Koko Head. Take a dip in the ocean, or head over to their lagoon for a dolphin encounter. This beach is a great setting for a Hawaiian Style Wedding, as well. You will never forget your “Memories Of Kahala” !

"Memories Of Kahala" is an 8 x 10 original oil palette knife painting.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PARADISE LAGOON & some fun tikis too !

2011-02-02T10:16:00.006-10:00

My inspiration for “Paradise Lagoon” comes from the tropical sheer mountain cliffs that make up the Marquesas Islands, but is not taken from a real location. It is an image in my mind. A place that I dream does exist, and that maybe one day I will discover.

Some of my most enjoyable paintings are ones that come from my imagination.

I was particularly happy when it came time to frame this piece. I found a simple frame that went perfectly with the subject, but also added a fun element to it, as well. From a distance, the frame looks like tropical carved wood, but on closer inspection, you see that the carvings are actually of little tiki heads!!

What better way to surround a fun little tiki hut in the middle of the South Pacific!!

"Paradise Lagoon" is a 20 x 24 original oil palette knife painting.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

BEFORE THE CROWDS

2011-01-12T09:10:00.003-10:00

"Before The Crowds”
features the world famous landmark of Waikiki, Diamond Head, in an earlier day.

Just palm trees, volcanoes, and ocean. A time before major civilization, before big hotels, before the crowds….

"Before The Crowds" is an 8 x 10 original oil palette knife painting.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

JUST A LAZY K-BAY DAY

2010-12-29T13:13:00.010-10:00

Once in a while, I like to take a day to just play “tourist” and drive around the island, stopping at the wonderful little fruit stands for some fresh coconut, or visiting the North Shore beaches, which seem so far away, but in all actuality it is not more than a 2 hour drive from one side of the island to the other.

As you head up the east side, you pass Kaneohe Bay. Being on the windward side, the water is usually a bit choppy and rather murky, not the crystal clear turquoise seas you are used to seeing on Oahu. But Kaneohe Bay still has a certain allure to it. A small anchored dinghy that bobs gently at high tide will actually be resting on the muddy sand at low tide, quite a peculiar sight!!

The breeze blows through the gorgeous palms and you just get the feeling of a happy lazy “no work” day. The beautiful Koolau mountain range, and Chinaman’s Hat in the distance, remind you that you still have more sights to see as you pull away from “K-Bay” and head further on your tropic island tour.

"Just A Lazy K-Bay Day" is a 24 x 20 original oil palette knife painting.
Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hawaii

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SAIL AWAY FOR THE DAY

2010-12-24T02:51:00.008-10:00

Even those that are lucky enough to live in a lovely little tiki shack on a perfect tropic South Seas Island, find the need to get away once in a while. They pack up a lunch, and head out to another beautiful island that may not be all that far away, but feels a world away once you are there. And after spending a fun filled day in this tropical heaven, they are always glad they have their own Island Paradise to return back home to.

"Sail Away For The Day" is a 12 x 24 original oil palette knife painting. It is a diptych done on two 12 x 12 canvases.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MAKAPU'U ON MY MIND

2010-12-16T08:00:00.005-10:00

Driving along the east side of Oahu, from Sandy Beach towards Kailua, you climb the hill, come around the bend, and are instantly rewarded with one of the most stunning views on this Island. The Makapu’u coastline with Rabbit Island standing out among the most beautiful turquoise water makes my heart jump every time! With white foaming surf rolling into the shore, and the swaying palm trees lining the beach park, this is a view I never tire of no matter how many times I drive this road. It is truly spectacular!

"Makapu’u On My Mind" is an 8 x 10 original oil palette knife painting.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HOME FOR DINNER

2010-12-06T15:24:00.007-10:00

A beautiful little wooden canoe safely carries it’s passengers back to their Island home, after a long day on the crystal blue waters of the South Pacific. And now is the time for the feast of the wonderful treasures the ocean has provided them this day!

“Home For Dinner”
is one of my original 11x14 palette knife paintings.

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!
LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SECRET VALLEY FALLS

2010-11-22T09:20:00.004-10:00

Deep in the lush tropical landscape of the islands, there are still hidden sights to be discovered by only the lucky few who take the time to seek them out. As dusk sets in on this lush valley, the thunderous sound becomes louder and louder, as we reach the sight of a perfect ending to a perfect day in Paradise!!

"Secret Valley Falls"
is an original oil 10 x 20 palette knife painting.

Click Here to view.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MORNING SHOREBREAK

2010-11-15T10:04:00.014-10:00

I love to sit on the beach at sunrise and watch the powerful waves roll in.
They crash along the jagged cliffs, as they make their way to the sandy shoreline, only to wash back out to sea again.
Yet with all their force and might, there is a very calming effect as their white foam dances along the beach.

"Morning Shorebreak"
is a 16x20 original oil palette knife painting.

Click Here to view.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

Mele KaTIKImaka

2010-11-11T12:29:00.008-10:00

I can't believe that the Holiday Season is among us once again. Where does the time go??!??

Well, here is a Happy Hawaiian way to get your Island Style Christmas off to a great start!

Back by popular demand are my "Mele KaTIKImaka" Hawaiian Christmas greeting cards.

These cards were designed from one of my original oil paintings, and feature a little tropical hut, decorated up for the holidays, along with a cool Tiki Dude that is getting into the Christmas spirit with his Santa Hat. And you can’t forget the Christmas Tree! Well, maybe this isn’t your typical Christmas Tree, but here in the Islands, this is how we like to do it! Tree is lighted and the coconuts are gift wrapped, ready for Christmas Day !

Cards read “Mele Katikimaka” on the outside (tiki’s version of “Mele Kalikimaka”) and on the inside, “Hau’oli Makatiki Hou” (tiki’s version of “Happy New Year”).

Click Here to see my "Mele Katikimaka" cards.

ALOHA & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TROPICAL BOOKMARKS ~ Buy Three, Get One FREE!

2010-10-13T09:11:00.009-10:00

I have a special going on now on my original hand painted Tropic Island Scene bookmarks. Buy three, get one free. Free bookmark can be your choice of any in my store.

These bookmarks make great one~of~a~kind gifts!

CLICK HERE to see my assortment of hand painted tropical bookmarks.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SUNSET HUT

2010-10-04T10:00:00.006-10:00

One of my favorite subjects to paint are the little tiki huts of my imagination.

"Sunset Hut"
features a little tiki~style shack set on a dock overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean near the end of another perfect day in Paradise!

"Sunset Hut" is an 11 x 14 original oil palette knife painting.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PLANTATION PARADISE

2010-08-24T09:22:00.012-10:00

ALOHA!!!
Welcome to my Island Dream Life.

This is one of my original mini oil paintings, titled
"Plantation Paradise"
SOLD
A cozy setting, nestled in the lush tropical vegetation which includes the symbolic palm trees that thrive in the rich volcanic mountain soil of these Islands. Here is a view you will never grow tired of.

Although they are becoming rare, you can still come across these charming little Plantation Style Cottages in Hawaii.

An absolute Paradise!!!

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!!!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TWO GREAT TREASURIES - TWO GREAT KAUAI FRIENDS!

2010-07-26T07:04:00.010-10:00

What a week of treasuries it has been. In just the past two days, I was lucky enough to be featured in two more treasuries. But what I found really exciting, is both treasuries also included works of my two favorite Kauai artist friends, as well !!

Today's treasury, "Island Girl", curated by
GreenBeansAndBows,
features my Auntie's Beach House and Marionette's (Kauaiartist) Hot Pink Hibiscus Original watercolor.

It is always an honor to have a piece selected for a treasury, and it is even more special when it is also shared with friends whose work I so admire!

Click here to see my "Auntie's Beach House"

Click here to see Marionette's gorgeous Hot Pink Hibiscus!

MAHALO !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

PARADISE FOUND

2010-07-25T07:11:00.008-10:00

What a great way to start a Sunday morning - a fabulous treasury called "Paradise Found" created by Nardie's Art To Wear.

I just listed "Tropic Jungle Home" and was thrilled to see that it had been included in this fantastic collection of tropic scenes.

I don't think I have ever spent as much time browsing through a treasury as I did this one. Each piece fascinated me. They are all so different, yet also alike. I visited each and every shop, and found that I had become quite sidetracked finding so many amazing pieces.

I was so glad to see that my Kauai friend, ScharArt, also had a gorgeous "Orchids In Blue" watercolor included in this treasury!!

"Tropic Jungle Home" can be found below on my previous post.

MAHALO !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TROPIC JUNGLE HOME

2010-07-23T14:07:00.008-10:00

ALOHA!!!
Welcome to my Island Dream Life.

This is one of my original mini oil paintings, titled
"Tropic Jungle Home"

Throughout Hawaii you can still come across these charming little Plantation Style Cottages.SOLD

Tucked away in a plethora of tropic jungle vegetation including palm trees, banana, ginger, heliconia, and other beautiful plants that thrive in the rich volcanic soil of these Islands.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!!!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

DREAM OFFICE

2010-07-21T17:25:00.005-10:00

ALOHA!!!
Welcome to my Island Dream Life.

This is one of my original 4x4 mini oil paintings.
It is titled
"Dream Office".
SOLD

Who wouldn’t love an office like this to work in every day?
With a gorgeous view of tropic turquoise waters, lush green palm trees and crystal clear blue skies, you just may not want to go back home at 5 p.m.!!

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!!!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

VACATION AND IT'S PLEASURES!

2010-07-07T16:02:00.006-10:00

What a great title for this unique treasury created by
expressions123.
And since I am looking forward to a great vacation next month, I found this treasury quite appropriate!

Check out
expressions123
etsy shop for unique notecards & magnets.

Mahalo for including my
"Tranquil Palm Cove"
oil painting in your vacation treasury!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

A HUNDRED MAHALOS!!!

2010-07-06T16:49:00.012-10:00

What a happy day today is!
I just made my 100th sale on Etsy!
I would like to send a HUGE MAHALO (Thank You) to everyone that has supported my art.
I have met so many wonderful people and hope to meet many, many more.

MAHALO AND ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

WILD PACIFIC

2010-07-03T07:47:00.015-10:00

As you may or may not know, I am a nut for the South Pacific.
I recently came across an awesome 2 disc DVD series and wanted to share it with you.
It is called "Wild Pacific", and is a documentary type special featuring many tropical Islands of the Pacific.

But this is not just any ol' documentary. The filming is SPECTACULAR, unlike anything I have ever seen before. The entire time you are watching, you are thinking
"How did they capture this?"

One of my favorite parts was the slow-mo underwater images of a large wave passing overhead. The way the water churns and spins while the wave goes by is amazing!

I also found the people of the island of Anuta to be a total representation of my "Island Dream Life" ideas. There are SO MANY other interesting parts of this series as well. Including unique island cultures, giant coconut cracking crabs, and astonishing dolphin and penguin swimming scenes that are just awesome to watch!

I thought I knew alot about South Pacific Islands, but the stories shown here are truly unique and SO INTERESTING!
(So fantastic that I felt the need to blog it!)

So, check it out some time. I was lucky enough to be able to watch it on a HUGE screen at night, and the colors and images just blew me away. I think I will go watch it again !!!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

HAWAII 5-0

2010-07-01T07:29:00.008-10:00

Here is another fun Hawaiian Style Treasury from
KitnKaboodleVintage

The Silver Plumeria necklace is really neat, and so is the barkcloth tote. But, being a tiki nut, I would have to go with the hand carved Polynesian Tiki Statue. You can never have too many of those!!!

Mahalo for including my
"TRANQUIL COVE"
mini 4x4 original oil painting in your Hawaii 5-0 Treasury!

Be sure to check out KitnKaboodleVintage for some awesome vintage items like a Kodak Brownie Camera or a bright yellow smiley face mug!!! The shop is fairly new, but already well on it's way!! Great job!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MY ISLAND HIDEAWAY

2010-06-27T06:32:00.007-10:00

“My Island Hideaway”
features a cute little Island Style hut made of bamboo and a thatched roof, set in a secluded lagoon surrounded by tropical palm tree landscape.
Your little outrigger canoe can take you back to civilization, but why would you want to go??

This is an 11x14 original palette knife oil painting, and comes framed.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MAKAPU'U CANU'U is fun to say !

2010-06-21T09:02:00.009-10:00

Well, leave it up to AnotherBrightIdea to come up with a fantastic treasury. I just love this one. I recognize so many fabulous Etsy artists, and it is so cool to see them all together in one place.

I was lucky enough to spend the day with Felicia and her sister Fran, when they visited the Islands last month. You can read about our excursion here.

We drove past Makapu'u Beach and I showed them the canoe that is parked on the shore there. I mentioned the painting of this scene that I was in the process of creating at the time. Although the canoe at the beach park is a blue and white, more modern version of the outrigger canoe, I decided to keep this one the traditional wooden style, and I am happy with the way it turned out. I named the piece "Makapu'u Canu'u" because it gives it that Hawaiian feel, and plus, I just find it fun to say!!
SOLD

I am honored that Felicia included it in her wonderful treasury "With A Little Art From My Friends".

MAHALO, Felicia!!

Be sure to check out "AnotherBrightIdea's" Etsy shop. She has many beautiful photos and note cards of tropical flowers that she took while visiting the Islands. I sure hope her and her sis plan a trip back again soon!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TWO PALMS AND AN ISLAND

2010-06-14T08:05:00.004-10:00

The title says it all.
A beautiful tropical scene - the perfect place to just relax and watch your troubles drift away with the tide!

“Two Palms and an Island” is one of my original 8x10 palette knife paintings.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

WANDERING NEAR THE TETONS

2010-06-11T19:46:00.007-10:00

A huge MAHALO to
retronona
for including my Tetons Barn original oil painting in her treasury.

Although "Still Standing Before The Grand" is not one of my usual "Island Style" paintings, I was inspired to paint this rustic old barn after a botched backpacking trip to the gorgeous Teton National Park.

Click here to view "Still Standing Before The Grand"

Click here to read about our slightly disappointing Grand Teton Adventure.

RETRO NONA has the cutest little hand-made dolls.
Check out her Etsy Shop here.

Mahalo for the great.... or should I say "Grand" Teton treasury!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

KA HALE WAI

2010-06-10T09:36:00.005-10:00

SOLD
This is one of my original palette knife oil paintings. It is titled “Ka Hale Wai” , which means “The Water House” in Hawaiian. This painting features a tropical little tiki style bamboo hut built over the lagoon of a secluded island somewhere out in the vast Pacific Ocean. Lush vegetation of red ginger and palm trees, and the towering mountain backdrop make “The Water House” the perfect location to escape to!!

Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SURF HUT

2010-06-07T10:18:00.005-10:00

A little tiki hut on your own tropical island. Surf all day and if the surf goes flat, you can always enjoy a cool siesta under the swaying palms. You won’t ever want to go back home!

CLICK HERE to view "Surf Hut".

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MAKAPU'U CANU'U

2010-06-05T06:50:00.006-10:00

A beautiful little wooden outrigger canoe sits on the shore, waiting patiently for someone to paddle it back home, to the Islands of the South Seas. But for now, it will just sit and enjoy the breathtaking view of Makapu’u.

SOLD
Mahalo for taking the time to view my artwork!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!
LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

CARIBBEAN DREAMIN'

2010-06-03T07:11:00.012-10:00

Check out this gorgeous treasury by
tigerpawstudios.

The colors are some of my all time favorites, and that beachy Caribbean theme just lets you sit and daydream all day long!
I feel lucky to be included in such a fun and relaxing treasury.

MAHALO tigerpaw!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

MAHALO KAUAI ARTIST

2010-06-02T15:35:00.012-10:00

I have been a long time subscriber to
Marionette's Painting Paradise
monthly newsletter, and was surprised and honored to find out upon opening her June edition that I had been featured!

Marionette (as you may know from some of my earlier blogs) is a wonderful artist on the island of Kauai. She has her very own studio, "Painting Paradise", and her monthly newsletter is always filled with exciting new things that she is up to. From painting classes and special projects to featured artists and sneak peeks at her new works of art, I always look forward to reading about life on the "Garden Isle".

Please take the time to check out
Marionette's (a.k.a. Kauaiartist) Etsy shop.
She has the most gorgeous botanical watercolors, and her scenic Kauai landscapes are just beautiful! Although I have not yet had the chance to meet Marionette in person, I feel like I know her, through sharing our Etsy Art experiences over the past few years. I can't wait to one day get to Kauai and visit Painting Paradise for myself!

Mahalo, Marionette, for the feature in your beautiful newsletter.
(Click on the image below to see the article in full size.)

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

A COW IN HER HAWAIIAN DREAM

2010-05-23T12:19:00.008-10:00

MAHALO to Five Little Gems for including my "Palm At Kualoa" Art Magnet in her humorous and fun tropical~themed Treasury.

My "Palm At Kualoa" Art Magnet can be found HERE

View my original "Palm At Kualoa" Oil Painting HERE.

And I am happy to say that the star of the Treasury
(Yes, I'm talking about the COW!)
comes from my Kauai artist friend, Dava, of
"Treasures From Hawaii"!

Don't forget to check out "FIVE LITTLE GEMS" for some awesome hand beaded jewelry.

My Tropical Magnets taken from my original oil paintings can be seen HERE

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

UKULELE FEVER

2010-05-17T09:04:00.016-10:00

Well, I've caught it..... Ukulele Fever.
I have heard it runs rampant here in Hawaii, but I never expected I would catch it. It all started about 15 years ago when my mom bought me a little "touristy" ukulele to decorate my home with! My house is all Hawaiian-Tiki theme, and she thought a little ukulele would fit right in.

I have never played a musical instrument in my life, and was never planning on playing the ukulele either. It looked adorable sitting on the stereo cabinet -- strictly home decor!! Then, when I got back into painting and had to have my Hawaiian music playing in the background, most of which includes the Ukulele, I thought it would sure be fun to be able to play.

Here is the little tourist ukulele that became the unknown start of my
"Ukulele Fever".

As luck would have it, I was at the library one day, thumbing through their DVD's. I came across a
"Teresa Bright Beginning Ukulele" DVD
and thought.... why not?
So, I brought it home and picked up my little tourist ukulele and tuned it to "my-dog-has-fleas" as best as I could. I tried to follow Teresa's DVD and was becoming frustrated. I did not know how to read music, didn't know the first thing about chords and counting and all that stuff, but I do know what SOUNDS right (and my playing did not!!). But, I kept at it and tried over and over again.
G.....C.....E.....A....
It was almost like trying to learn a foreign language. And then, all of a sudden, it started to click. My brain was beginning to memorize the different chords and my fingers were starting to hop automatically to where they needed to go. It almost started to sound like music..... almost.

Like I said, this ukulele was strictly bought for decorative purposes and was far from containing any real musical quality, but I played it all weekend long and was getting better and better at it.

This is when I caught THE FEVER!!! Mother's Day was coming up and Brighton wanted to buy me a decent ukulele. I was all for it! There were two different ones that I really liked and I couldn't decide between the two. We brought both home, planning on trying them and seeing which felt better to me, and I would return the other one. Well, I tried them both, and I did like one over the other. But then something funny happened. Dean picked up the other ukulele that we had planned to return, and HE CAUGHT THE FEVER!!! He also had never played ukulele before, although when he was young he had played a few musical instruments and knew a few chords.

We decided to keep both ukuleles and spent the day watching the Teresa Bright DVD over and over again. Her teaching style is amazing and it was so easy to learn the different chords. By evening, we both could play the three Hawaiian Songs on her DVD. We were amazed with ourselves!!! If I knew it would be this fun, I would have tried it years ago!

Here are our new (and improved) Ukuleles. They are made of curly koa and I think they are just as beautiful to look at as they are fun to play!

I love music, and to be able to play something on the ukulele that is even semi-recognizable is so thrilling!! We keep the ukuleles setting on the stereo cabinet, just as our little home decor uke before them. But now, whenever we walk past, we have the urge to pick them up and start strumming.
It is so fun to be able to do something together that we both enjoy.

We recently signed up for lessons so that we learn CORRECTLY how to play. Unfortunately, the ukulele takes up a lot of my time now, I need to make more time for painting. But it really is rather addicting! The other day, I was in the middle of painting, listening to my Hawaiian music, and this song came on that I thought "This would be fun to try to play on the uke". I dropped my palette knife and grabbed my ukulele. Slowly but surely, just by ear, I figured out the basic chords needed to play the song. And about 2 hours later, I had figured out the entire song and was playing it over and over again, totally forgetting the fact that I had been in the middle of a painting!

That's what Uke Fever does to you! It gets in you and you can't get rid of it. And I don't want to get rid of it. I have found something new that I love to do, and it has opened up a whole new musical world for me!

Teresa Bright is a famous Hawaiian singer and ukulele player here on the Island of Oahu. If you want to check out the DVD I used to learn how to play, click on the picture below. I highly recommend it if you want to learn to play Hawaiian Music on your Ukulele!
HAVE FUN !!!

ALOHA!!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

DANCING WITH FIRE AND KNIVES !

2010-05-15T06:54:00.024-10:00

The other night, we went to the 18th Annual World Fire Knife Championships in Laie, up near Oahu’s North Shore, at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
What a treat it was!!!
We got to see the world’s BEST fire knife dancers show off their amazing skills.

The fire knife was originally used as a weapon in the islands of Samoa. It is now considered a marshal art, and is demonstrated in many shows and island gatherings across the Pacific. If you ever have the chance to attend this competition, you must! It is unbelievable and totally amazing -- and so exciting!!

This is what a fire knife looks like.

As the name states, there is a blade and a sharp hook at one end. There are two wicks, one at each end, for a double flame on each knife. The competitors use two knives (4 flames) at the same time and can actually attach the two knives together using the hooks.

They make it look so easy, and you have to keep reminding yourself that this is FIRE – real fire – that can burn you in an instant. Not to mention the sharp blades and hooks that could take a mean chunk out of you if you happen to twirl them just a little bit off, or fail to catch them correctly, as you fling them 20 feet in the air above you!!

Here are a few pics of the competition. It is very difficult to get decent fire knife photos, as they are twirling the knives so fast, and it is so dark, but here are a few of my better ones.

Some of the competitors getting ready to show off their amazing skills.

I think the poor drummers almost had a harder job than the fire knife competitors. They played their hearts out and must have lost 10 gallons of sweat each!! You gotta remember, those flames are HOT! But the ground shaking beat was essential for making a perfect fire knife dance complete. You could feel it in your bones and it sure did intensify the amazing show before you! These guys were awesome (and yes, they did look like they were having a blast most of the time!)

There were 24 competitors this night alone (with more the next night), but unfortunately, we could not stay for the entire show. It went well past midnight, and we had a long (well, long for Hawaii standards) hour and a half drive back home and work the next day. So, sadly, we left the show early, with the drums still beating in our brains, we made the long, dark drive back home.

It was a wonderful evening, and something I will never forget!!

Below is some video of the fire knife competition.
(Click the play button)

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ANOTHER BRIGHT IDEA FINALLY MAKES IT TO HAWAII !!!

2010-05-08T07:16:00.020-10:00

I am so happy to say that I have finally had the pleasure of meeting Felicia Kramer of
“Another Bright Idea” in person!!
In Hawaii!
Yes, she FINALLY did make it out here!

If you don’t remember, Felicia featured “Hawaii Week” on her blog back in February, where she interviewed four artists living in the “Land Of Aloha”. That was what she needed to inspire her to finally book a trip.

Although she was only on Oahu for a very short time, Brighton and I were able to meet up with her, and her wonderful sister, Fran, and spend an afternoon with them. We drove around the island a bit, stopping at a few of the beautiful lookout sights. Here are Fran and Felicia at Diamond Head Beach.

Unfortunately, it was a bit gray and hazy, not the usual strikingly gorgeous scenery I am used to, but it was still beautiful. Here we are at the Halona Blowhole Lookout. Brighton is very camera-shy and as soon as he sees a camera pointed at him, he will look away.
Silly dog!!

We then headed on to Kailua town.
I have to say, Felicia and Fran are two of the most easy-going people I have ever met. I instantly felt like I had known them for years, and there was never an uncomfortable feeling or loss of interesting topics to chat about. And believe me, Felicia and her sister have some great stories!

One of the funniest was the tale of how they went to see “The worst movie ever”, “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street”. I had never even HEARD of it before, so they basically gave me the rundown of how Johnny Depp is this barber who pretends to give the customer a shave but actually slices their throat killing them and then the wife makes them into pies and sells them…… or SOMETHING like that.

We were on our way to lunch, so I joked “If they serve mincemeat pie, be sure not to order it”. We pull into the little strip of shops that had the restaurant we planned to eat at, and you wouldn’t believe it, but there was a barber shop only two doors down!!! Right in the window it said “Cut and a SHAVE”. We cracked up !!! (Fortunately, we didn’t see mincemeat pie on the menu!!!)

They treated me to a delicious lunch at Formaggio’s. None of us had been there before, so we didn’t know what to expect, but the food was really good, and the atmosphere nice as well. (Although their bathroom mirror is much too high for us shorties!!)

Felicia brought me a bottle of DELICIOUS “Sanders Milk Chocolate Hot Fudge” all the way from her home state. She said they are famous for it. I can see why. The stuff is unreal. It is so creamy and tastes like nothing you buy in the supermarket. I am hooked! MAHALO !!!

We stopped in Island Treasures for a quick peek at their new gallery. Felicia and I both couldn’t resist some adorable Plumeria earrings, and we each bought a pair. It was fun listening to her sister tell me about her piano lessons. She is such a pleasant person, and I am so glad Felicia brought her along.

Unfortunately, it was getting late and I didn’t want to take up their entire day, as they were going to be flying on to Kauai tomorrow. So, we drove back over the Pali. It was kinda rainy and overcast, so we didn’t stop at the Pali lookout. We were having a hard time keeping Fran from zoning out in the back seat. They had had a long eventful day the previous day, and I didn’t want to wear them out completely!

Bry and I dropped them back off at their hotel and gave them a huge Hawaiian hug.
It was so great to finally get to meet another Etsy Artist in person, and have such a great day on top of that! They are flying on to Kauai where they will be lucky enough to get to meet Marionette and Dava, as well. I am still trying to find a way to get to Kauai and visit “Painting Paradise” myself.

Have fun, you guys! And have a safe trip back home.

ALOHA !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SURF & SAIL THRU SUMMER!!!

2010-04-26T07:50:00.007-10:00

Summer is almost here, and I have surfing and sailing on my mind!

Here are three new original ACEO's with "Surf & Sail" themes. ENJOY!

"LAZY LONGBOARD DAYS"

"TROPIC TRADEWINDS"
SOLD

"TWIN SAILS THRU THE TROPICS"

CLICK HERE to view my Original ACEOs.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TROPICAL SOUTH SEAS

2010-04-16T19:36:00.007-10:00

Two new “Tropical South Seas” themed prints are available in my Etsy Shop.
Size of each is 8x10.
They are professionally printed on beautiful glossy 110 lb cardstock.
And at only $10 each, they would make a great gift for yourself, or someone you know that loves the South Seas or the tropics!

"Paradise Sail"

"A Perfect Day In Opunohu Bay"

More prints to come soon! Please check back often.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

ANOTHER UNUSUAL FLOWER

2010-04-11T06:09:00.022-10:00

Last week, while driving through the sleepy little town of Waimanalo, I happened to be stuck in a bit of traffic and had a chance to look around more than usual.
As I was passing "Glenn's Flowers & Plants", a cute little nursery right on the outskirts of Waimanalo - or "NaloTown" as it is locally called, a beautiful teal blue color caught my eye. I then noticed that it was a cluster of flowers hanging from a vine-like plant, completely covering a trellis that was set up in the center of the nursery. This flower color was SO UNUSUAL, I thought it must be fake. I had to go and take a closer look.

They were real! They were beautiful in color, a deep rich aqua~blue. But the shape of these flowers was every bit as unusual as their color, and also a bit "threatening". They resembled a huge birds talons and almost gave me a creepy feeling, despite their gorgeous (and my all time FAVORITE) color.

The person working there informed me that this was the
JADE VINE.
It is a native to the Philippines and grows deep in the rain forest there. She told me they have none for sale, and here in Hawaii, they are hard to propagate, and hard to grow.
Oh well... I don't really have any room for such a large hanging vine like this anyways, but it sure made my day to see unusual blue~green flowers like this. And by the time I was ready to leave, their fierce claw-shape didn't seem to offend me any longer.

The flowers can be used to make beautiful Hawaiian Leis.
If you are ever in Waimanalo, be sure to check out this gorgeous plant at Glenn's (unfortunately they do not have a website at this time, but if you ask around, anyone in Waimanalo should be able to tell you where to find it).

If you are interested in other sites of Waimanalo,
click HERE: SUPERBRY BITES WAIMANALO

My little yorkie, Brighton, will be happy to show you around "NaloTown"!

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

SUMMER DREAMS

2010-04-08T19:09:00.013-10:00

MAHALO to Cheryl's Art for including my "Dreamer's Paradise" Art Magnet in her fun and tropical beachy~themed Treasury.

"Dreamer's Paradise" Art Magnet can be found HERE

Be sure to check out my selection of Tropical Magnets taken from my original oil paintings HERE

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

TREE OF WHO~VILLE ??!!??

2010-04-02T06:58:00.012-10:00

While walking through Kailua last week, I passed a tree with the most unusual blossoms. I had never seen these before. Hot pink fuzzy type flowers that looked like they could have come from
Dr. Seuss’s “Who~Ville”!

I was determined to find out what type of tree this was, and as luck would have it, the owner of the house came walking up the driveway.
“Do you happen to know what type of tree this is?"
He did not seem surprised, and must have been asked this question several times before, because he sure had his facts. I listened as he rattled them off.

“This is what’s known as a Bombax Tree”.
(Sure sounded like something Dr. Seuss
would have thought up!!)
“It comes from Mexico. It will lose all of it’s leaves and then flower for about three months in early spring.”

He picked up a blossom off the ground. It looked like something you would dust with! He then went on to say that the wood is very soft and the tree grows quite rapidly. In fact, he was starting to worry about his, as it was planted close to the house and he didn’t want it disturbing the foundation.

He also said that the flowers attract a lot of bees. On closer examination of the blossom, you could see small balls of pollen on the tip of each and every strand (stamen) of the flower. He gave me an entire lesson on it’s growing conditions and life cycle. He sure did know a lot about this tree. I think he was very proud of his Bombax!

These flowers make beautiful and unusual floral arrangements. And now that I am aware of the Bombax (this variety is known as “Pseudobombax ellipticum" or the “Shaving Brush Tree” – how appropriate!!), I seem to notice them more and more around the Island, although they are still fairly rare here.

After doing some online research, I found that they can be easily propagated from a stem cutting, much like I had done with my “Tahiti Dream” Plumeria Tree. Indead, the actual tree trunk itself did kind of resemble a Plumeria Tree.

Hmmm…..... Maybe I will have to give the Bombax a try!

CLICK HERE to find out more

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

BIRDS IN PARADISE

2010-03-25T19:59:00.012-10:00

"Birds In Paradise”
is an original oil that features two beautiful tropical Bird Of Paradise, and has been painted with the effect of being matted in a sage green silk-like design. Canvas is painted on all edges, so no need for a frame, if you don’t want one.

The inspiration for this painting was my beautiful Bird Of Paradise plant that I have had growing in my garden for over 13 years. To me, the Bird Of Paradise is one of the most beautiful of all the tropicals. I am lucky enough to be able to grow them in my yard here in Hawaii, and their bright vibrant colors always bring a smile to my face. They are truly fascinating.

MAHALO for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII !!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website

COLORS OF THE PACIFIC

2010-03-18T23:55:00.008-10:00

SOLD

This is one of my original palette knife oil paintings, titled
"Colors Of The Pacific"

What could be better than a brilliant colorful sky overlooking gorgeous turquoise waters and a palm tree lined shore. With the world famous landmark of Hawaii, Diamond Head, as your backdrop, you won’t ever want to go back home!

MAHALO (Thank You) for taking the time to view my artwork.

ALOHA FROM HAWAII!!

LisaBongZee's Island Dream Life Website