Io Giclee

This is a giclee of my "'Io of Hualalai", the giclee is in a mat with two different sizes available. This design is a lino cut. When I get an idea for a piece I research the animals and elements for the design, I will go on excursions with my family on hikes and wildlife journey's to see and photograph the elements I will be using in my art. I spend extensive time on my drawing and composition before transferring and carving into the linoleum block. I then print it onto Japanese rice paper, and carefully hand paint it.
The Hawaiian Hawk or 'Io is the only hawk that is native to Hawai'i and is protected as an endangered species. 'Io are often seen soaring gracefully in updrafts over forests. The 'Io is a symbol of royalty in Hawaiian legend. He sits on a Koa tree, the largest native tree in the Hawaiian islands, in the background the sun rises over Hualalai mountain.