My First Gallery Show: Māpuna Mānoa Recap
I had the honor of participating in my first ever gallery exhibition yesterday, April 27th. The show was hosted by Kiʻikau Printers at the beautiful Māpuna Mānoa Gallery, and the theme couldn’t have been more perfect: Mohala: The Blossoming — a floral showcase featuring myself, Sarah Farris, and Morgan Snyder.
This was such a special experience for so many reasons. Even though I’ve been running my art business full-time for four years now (time flies!), I still sometimes struggle to think of myself as a “fine artist” — someone whose work could actually hang in a gallery - so to say I was nervous leading up to this event would be a massive understatement - But I’m so, so glad I said yes.
Since the theme was floral (right up my alley!), I included a mix of old and new work. I brought several pieces from my Tropical Plant Collection from 2023, and I also created three brand-new originals just for the show: a 22x30 Protea painting, a 22x30 Bird of Paradise painting, and a smaller 8x10 Heliconia piece.
I really wanted to challenge myself to create some larger works — which, if you’ve been here for a while, you know is definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone! Painting big feels both intimidating and incredibly rewarding, and I’m so proud of how these pieces turned out.
Leading up to the event, I definitely battled some major anxiety and imposter syndrome — especially knowing I’d be showing alongside two well-known, talented artists. But once the day actually arrived, everything started to fall into place.
My display came together exactly how I pictured it:
4 framed 22x30 pieces
3 framed 12x16 pieces
2 framed 8x10s
Plus a little setup to sell prints and greeting cards!
I’m thrilled (and still a little shocked!) to share that I ended up selling a handful of framed pieces, almost sold out of prints, and sold almost all of the greeting cards! The remaining pieces will continue to be available at the gallery through the end of June if you’re local and want to check them out.
One of the best parts of the day was the amazing turnout of visitors — and once I had my first conversation with a kind and supportive tourist, my nerves seemed to melt away. It was so incredible meeting other artists, art enthusiasts, some of my friends, small business buddies, colleagues, and even my pilates teacher came to show her support! I also got to meet so many Instagram friends in real life, which made the day even sweeter. It was such a beautiful reminder that behind all the social media screens are real people and real connections.
Having my husband there helping every step of the way meant the world to me too — he’s the best hype man and is always a calming presence for me.
If I have one tiny regret, it’s that I didn’t take more photos and videos during the day. I was able to take a few of myself in front of the display, but I didn’t get any photos with friends or visitors. I think I was just so focused on soaking in the moment that I didn’t even think about my phone — which honestly, means more to me anyway. (But still... note to self for the future…)
Writing this blog post felt like the best way to capture the memories while they’re still fresh.
Another thing that made the gallery really special: even though it was a floral-themed show, every artist’s work was so different.
My work was vibrant, colorful, and bright (no surprises there!).
Sarah’s pieces were bold and dramatic, with deep, earthy neutrals.
Morgan’s intricate ink drawings were absolutely stunning — so detailed and unique.
It was amazing seeing three completely different takes on the same theme all side-by-side. I felt so honored to be a part of it, surrounded by such talented artists.
As a little personal side note — this event felt like the perfect sendoff before my upcoming move. (In case you missed it, I’m moving states next month!) It’s bittersweet to leave, but having this gallery experience truly felt like the best way to celebrate everything Hawaii has meant to me these past few years.
More than anything, this show gave me a renewed sense of confidence — in myself, in my artwork, and in my ability to grow and evolve as an artist. It reminded me that the scary things (like stepping wayyy outside my comfort zone) usually turn out to be the most rewarding.
If you’re an artist or creative reading this: You can do things like this too. You will find people who appreciate your art. Even if it’s terrifying. Even if it’s your first time. Even if you feel like you’re not “ready.” Every time I’ve taken a leap that scared me, it’s led to something better than I could’ve imagined. This gallery was one of those leaps — and I’m so grateful I said yes.
Below are a few photos from the event! (And next time, I promise I’ll take even more.)
Thank you again to everyone who came, supported from afar, or sent encouraging messages — it truly meant the world.
