Kailua-Kona may be the ultimate destination for water sports and ambitious hikes, but what if you want a more relaxing experience? Thankfully, cultural opportunities abound on this side of the Big Island — you just need to know where to look.
Take a break from the waves or the trail and explore a whole other facet of Big Island life: artistic beauty. The area is home to several lovely galleries and art centers, where you can discover the creative talent that sets the local artistic community apart.
The Blue Sea Artisans Gallery exemplifies the creative spirit that abounds throughout the Big Island. Owned and operated by local artists, this Kailua-Kona gem focuses exclusively on Big Island art. You can feel confident that every painting, sculpture, or textile product you find here was created by somebody who lives in the area — somebody who has found inspiration in the very sights you’ve taken in during your Big Island adventure.
Conveniently situated within the Keauhou Shopping Center, this laid-back gallery makes for the perfect addition to an already enjoyable day of shopping. Where better to stock up on meaningful gifts and souvenirs? Even if you don’t invest in any of the pieces on display, you’ll enjoy simply strolling from one display to the next.
While this gallery is best described as eclectic, tropical themes can be found throughout the space. Several works feature unique media that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Depending on when you visit, you might encounter paintings, prints, photography, wood carving, ceramics, botanical sculptures, jewelry and glass.
Leisurely browsing on your own can be fun, but the real fun of visiting this gallery lies in the connections you build with artisans and visitors alike. Build some extra time into your visit so you can inquire about the pieces on display. You may be surprised by how much you learn.
Whether your ideal gallery adventure involves in-depth conversation or a more solitary excursion, you’ll be amazed by all that you discover at The Blue Sea Artisans Gallery. Embrace the Big Island’s rich culture as you gaze in awe at gorgeous works of art — and, perhaps, invest in a piece or two for your own collection.
Insider Tips:
-Build your Blue Sea Artisans Gallery visit into a larger shopping trip that includes stops at the Kona Arts Center, the Kona Stories Bookstore, and the Paradise Found Boutique. The Keauhou Shopping Center may feel quaint, but therein lies its appeal. This destination provides the perfect laid-back shopping experience, plus a glimpse at local island life.
-Keep an eye on the official Facebook and Instagram pages for The Blue Sea Artisans Gallery. There, you’ll find intriguing content to keep you connected long after you depart this artistic gem. The Artist of the Month feature is especially worth checking out, as it will expose you to up-and-coming artistic geniuses and their most impressive works.