“Pele’s Gift” is a hand-knit volcano cape created by Lisa Louie.

LAHAINA – Lisa Louie will be the featured artist in Lahaina Arts Society’s Banyan Tree Gallery in the Old Lahaina Courthouse through Dec. 2.

“Most people stop moving when I tell them I knit volcanoes. That is such a new idea to them, they think they must have misheard me. But no – I really do knit volcanoes,” said fiber artist Louie.

Volcanoes show up on wearable art like hats and capes, but also on sculptures and wall art.

Volcanoes aren’t the only unexpected creation she makes. One of Louie’s recent pieces represents the school shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018. This multimedia piece has damaged knit heart shapes scattered on and around a replica of a student chair.

“I’ve been knitting a long time, but the art knitting happened about a dozen years ago after a trip to Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Then it has expanded beyond nature into political areas. I never thought about knitting representing such unexpected pieces, but have learned to listen to the ideas that come and then start creating.”

There will be a reception on Sunday, Nov. 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the public to meet Louie, learn more about her art and enjoy some refreshments.

For information on when Louie will be demonstrating in the gallery, call LAS at 661-0111 or go to www.lahainaarts.com.