Nāmakaokahaʻi (February 2019)
Lauren Brevner, Pangeaseed Foundation
Mural at 98b N Market St, Wailuku
Artist statement: “Inspired by Hawaiian mythology, I choose to represent the topic of overfishing with my interpretation of the sea goddess Nāmakaokahaʻi. Her waters are seen as empty and lacking life, this visual combined with a limited palette emphasizes a loss of color and vibrancy that our oceans once had. Highlighting a netted parrotfish (a species that is integral to the protection of coral reef health) which are severely overfished in Hawaii is another reminder of the many ways overfishing has an impact on our oceans. As an ARTivist it was very important to me to create a piece that was visually engaging, easy to understand and positive while still carrying a clear message.”
PHOTOS: Tre' Packard
Lauren Brevner, Pangeaseed Foundation
Mural at 98b N Market St, Wailuku
Artist statement: “Inspired by Hawaiian mythology, I choose to represent the topic of overfishing with my interpretation of the sea goddess Nāmakaokahaʻi. Her waters are seen as empty and lacking life, this visual combined with a limited palette emphasizes a loss of color and vibrancy that our oceans once had. Highlighting a netted parrotfish (a species that is integral to the protection of coral reef health) which are severely overfished in Hawaii is another reminder of the many ways overfishing has an impact on our oceans. As an ARTivist it was very important to me to create a piece that was visually engaging, easy to understand and positive while still carrying a clear message.”
PHOTOS: Tre' Packard
About the Artist: Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, Lauren Brevner grew up in a mixed heritage family rich with culture and inspiration. In 2009, she moved to Osaka, Japan in hopes of reconnecting with her roots. There, Lauren had the honor of apprenticing under renowned artist, Sin Nakayamal. It was through her mentor that she first began her work as an artist. Nakayamal was the inspiration that sparked her journey to self-taught fruition.
Lauren’s paintings primarily involve the interpretation of female portraiture. She plays with polychromatic layers; the figures within it existing in surreal and isometric spheres. The women embody strength and femininity through somber silence. Their gaze a myriad narrative. Lauren Brevner seeks to create a commentary on the subject of women and their depiction in art throughout the ages. Her portrayal of women serves to empower rather than objectify: a reflection of the vitality of sensuality over sexuality. About PangeaSeed: PangeaSeed is an international collective of artists and activists whose mission is to harnesses the power of art, science, and creativity to generate awareness and effect positive change surrounding global ocean environmental issues. Their February 2019 “Mauka to Makai" proposal to SMALL TOWN * BIG ART brought together 19 artists from around the world to address some of today's most pressing issues affecting our marine and freshwater resources through large-scale, purpose-driven public art. PangeaSeed's SMALL TOWN * BIG ART Artists: Lauren Brevner | Joey Rose & Alex Underwood | Gregg Kaplan | Kai Kaulukukui | Dulk | Cory Kamehanaokalā | E.H.A. | Mary Iverson | Ben Johnston | Wooden Wave | BirdO | Gavin Murai | Getso | Cracked Ink | Poi/ Techs Learn More: SMALL TOWN * BIG ART Welcomes PangeaSeed Foundation to Wailuku Town (1/24/19) | Team of Artists to Paint Murals Throughout Wailuku and Central Maui (1/25/19) (1/27/19) | Proof of Concept (1/31/19) | Six Months In! SMALL TOWN * BIG ART (5/23/19) |
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