Lahaina Arts Society will host a reception in memorial of artist Janet Stewart on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 4 p.m. in the Old Jail Gallery in the Old Lahaina Courthouse.

LAHAINA – Lahaina Arts Society is honored to present works by the late Janet Stewart – one of the most well-respected watercolor artists in recent history – in a show in the Old Jail Gallery in the Old Lahaina Courthouse through Feb. 6, 2017. The exhibit is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Join LAS for a reception in memorial of Stewart on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 4 p.m. in the Old Jail Gallery. Works from her remaining collection will be on display and available for purchase.

Born in America’s heartland, Stewart had her first view of the Pacific Ocean at age 12 when her family migrated to Southern California.

Her first one-woman show was in Pasadena, California, in 1976; subsequently, her work was shown in many local Southern California galleries.

Her big break came in 1985 when she was discovered as an artist in Hawaii. She divided her time between the islands and Southern California until 2005, when she was able to realize her dream and move to Maui.

She has become well known in Hawaii for her sensitive portrayal of the Hawaiian people, culture and their homeland.

The ambiance she puts into her Hawaiian paintings has carried over to other areas of the world. Her sensitivity is apparent in her portrayals of life everywhere, although she is happiest in tropical areas.

Stewart began drawing people at a very early age, and her proficiency developed without a formal art education. Her people are alive – their hopes and dreams shine through the painted images.

“It is with very deep gratitude that I have responded to the reception the Hawaiian islanders have given me,” Stewart once said.

“Through their inspiration, I am able to continue to work at achieving my dream.”

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