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Keiki artists learn at ‘Plein Air for the Young at ART’

By Staff | Nov 19, 2009

The student artists were recognized with certificates.

LAHAINA — More than 20 young artists participated in the first annual “Plein Air for the Young at ART” paint out held recently at Kamehameha Iki Park in Lahaina.

Students ages 8-16 from Lahaina Intermediate School, Sacred Hearts School, King Kamehameha III Elementary School, Kamehameha Elementary School, Maui Preparatory Academy and Haleakala Waldorf School painted at the two-hour event.

Modeled after the Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational, the paint out was an opportunity for young aspiring artists to experience painting direct from life.

Three professional artists roamed the area and visited each student artist, offering tips, guidance and feedback.  

The program was funded through the Community Art Fund of the Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational.

“After checking in, the kids found their favorite subject matter and dove into the task of seeing shadows, composing shapes, choosing focal points and identifying color relationships,” said Lahaina artist Ronaldo Macedo.  

“The kids completed an original plein air painting in two hours.”

Immediately after the paint out, the young artists were treated to a reception and display of their work at Lahaina Cannery Mall.  

Maui No Ka Oi magazine sponsored the event, and local merchants donated treats and discount coupons to the young artists.

“It was very exciting to see our idea of giving back to the schools and the kids come to reality,” said Lois Reiswig, one of the program’s founders.

“Seeing young, driven students create beautiful pieces of work from nature was exciting.”

Professional artists coaching the kids were Mike Carroll of Lanai and Carleton Kinkade and Macedo of Lahaina. All three will participate again Feb. 13-20, 2010, in the fifth annual Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational. All 26 participating artists for the event have been confirmed, and community volunteers and sponsors are in high gear preparing for what is expected to be another exceptional show of talent from professional artists from the Mainland and Hawaii.  

For more information on the “Plein Air for the Young at ART” program and the 2010 Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational, visit www.mauipleinairpainting.com.