Artist says she likes to let her work sing for itself

By Victoria Gail-White
Advertiser Art Critic

•	Journey From the Heart Haunani K.M. Bush Through April 25 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays bibelot gallery 738-0368

In Haunani K.M. Bush's case, this is a moot point. Her work is eclectic. She doesn't want a signature look to flag her work. She wants it to resonate with the viewer on its own merit. And so, what might be viewed, from a more conventional standpoint, as a somewhat schizophrenic exhibit, emerges as an innovative variety show.

"Using watercolors is like music," says Bush. "You have different melodies and tones — soft, bombastic or vibrant. The medium is so flexible, it can voice different ranges. I haven't felt the need to stick to a specific style or tone. That is not me. I would rather take the back seat and let the painting sing for itself."

In 1993, on a lark, she took a painting class with a friend. An attorney, she took a leap of faith soon after and quit her practice to pursue the arts.

"In law, you are going into court for your client and speaking on their behalf," says Bush.

"With art, it is very personalized. You are exposing yourself and your vulnerability."

She finds art a more challenging career choice. Fortunately, her husband, Kalani, has encouraged and supported her.

"There is no way that I could have gotten as far as I have without his support," says Bush. "I am very blessed in that way. He is patient."

He also helps her with framing.

There are three distinct styles of work in the exhibit.

In one style, exemplified by "Moonsongs and Tea," "Swimming with the Moon" and "Morning Chorus," Bush incorporates a technique of masking out areas and pouring watercolor paint in stages. Using a Kokeshi doll and fabric collection as inspiration for these pieces, she creates works that resemble woodblock prints and batiks. Her love of patterns is evident, and her choice of using deep earth-tones succeeds in giving the paintings a vintage appearance.

The second style is a more traditional watercolor technique. "Night Travelers," "Gingers at Dusk," and "Family Comforts" have abstract elements and sections of pure color.

"Dragon's Gate" and "Sentinel" represent the third distinct style. Both pieces are mixed media with collaged tissue paper, wax and gesso. Watercolors were poured on a wet surface and then carved to create details.

"I really let go in these pieces," says Bush. "They came out of an emotionally chaotic time in my life. They represent fear of the unknown and letting go of that fear to see where it takes you. These pieces were a safe haven out of the chaos."