George Allan said he is very proud of how far Lahaina Arts Society has progressed. He added that he never could have achieved so much as an artist without the start that LAS offered.

LAHAINA – Maui artist George Allan was recently honored with the Lahaina Arts Society (LAS) Living Treasure Award for his continuous contributions to the organization over the past 40 years.

The award was presented during the LAS annual meeting and celebration on June 25 at Lahaina’s Pioneer Inn.

One of the most respected artists in Hawaii, Allan was instrumental in shaping Lahaina Arts Society into what it is today.

“George sailed into Lahaina Harbor aboard the Carthaginian II, and our little island art world was never the same,” said Michael Stark, LAS president, during the award presentation.

“George was one of our pioneer members and led the society to claim the Old Jail (in the Old Lahaina Courthouse) and turn it into a gallery. He co-created Art Maui in 1979. He still supports LAS through his membership and by donating to Lahaina Art Association, the charity LAS founded. We greatly appreciate his accomplishments and the connection he has maintained with us.”

During his speech, Allan said he felt that “many people don’t realize how much revenue is brought into Maui County through art sales.”

Dignitaries present at the celebration included speakers Rep. Angus L. McKelvey and Sen. Roz Baker.

McKelvey said he remembered “growing up under the Banyan Tree” at art shows, as his mother, Joan McKelvey, was also one of the LAS founding members.

Stark noted that Allan’s impressive biography includes numerous shows, awards and honors as “Hawaii’s premier oil painter.”

Allan’s work is in the collections of the State of Hawaii, City & County of Honolulu, County of Maui and in national corporate collections.

He was also awarded the commission to paint the 100 paintings hanging in the lobby of the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Castle Theater.

Amy Fry, chief executive officer of LAS, added, “Lahaina Arts Society is honored to have George Allan as a ‘Living Treasure’ and lifetime member.”

For more information on Lahaina Arts Society, call 661-0111 or visit www.lahainaarts.com.