A Beautiful Hawaiian Day 2
(Make sure you read ABHD Part 1 below or you won’t know what I am talking about.)
First I needed models. The story was about a young Hawaiian boy and girl.
I called several elementary schools and finally spoke to Sheana who had a daughter and nephew that sounded like they would be great. We met, and Jeremy & Kekamalai were perfect! I’ve been looking everywhere for a photo of them and when I find one I will post it. They were very patient models (although not excited about the part where they had to hold hands).
Meanwhile, Steve flew to the Big Island, where the story took place. He scouted all the locations and came back with stunning photographs. We had been to the Big Island several times, but I needed specific views of these magical locations. I guess I can add Photographer to his list of credits.
Then I got busy. Kira wasn’t with us yet, so I painted like a madwoman. It was fun… in a scary can’t-make-a-mistake kind of way. As you may know, watercolors are not very forgiving, so I didn’t have time for mistakes.
I started with the cover image and everything else started to fall into place.
It was a fabulous experience!
The book even won a couple of awards. I loved seeing it on the bookshelves in stores and even in Costco! You know you’ve made it when Costco carries your work! :0)
Thank you Henry (you MUST check out his music @ www.henrykapono.com) for writing a great story and hanging with me during the book signings.
Thank you Kekamalai & Jeremy!
And as always thanks to my incredible husband, who makes everything I do (and want to do) possible.
Please check out the page on my website to see all of the paintings.
Aloha, Susan
Lately there has been a lot of renewed interest in the book I illustrated called