Scarlett Flame Flower, Dominical, Costa Rica”

30×60 oil on canvas.

Bloomed 1/16/24 11:30 am

Inspired by my time at Casa Amigos in Dominical, Costa Rica

oil on canvas        40×50        $16000

What do you remember about the places you visit? What stands out to you the most? When you return to your favorite places, where do you like to visit? Maybe it’s a favorite restaurant, a shop, or a stretch of beach. For me travel creates plant memories. I remember when and where I saw certain things blooming, and I love to return to them again and again.

Such is the case for a particular plumeria tree on Puako Road north of Kona on the Big Island. Plumeria come in wonderful colors, white with yellow being the most common, but I have developed an eye for a red variety that I love. It had been few years since I had visited my favorite red blooming tree near the church, and thankfully it was still there and in full bloom during my visit. I had taken photos here on two other occasions, but none were right for a painting.  This time I knew I had the shot I wanted to paint.

Back at home in the studio as I painted the deeply saturated hues on my canvas, I could almost smell the flowers and feel the balmy Puako breeze on my face. I hope I can return, again and again.

Inspired by a chandelier of Angel Trumpets swinging in the breeze over a table of freshly brewed Kona Coffee and Hawaiian breakfast treats.