A Visual Journey
ARTIST STATEMENT
“My paintings reflect an evolvement and range of who I am. They are personal, abstract, and passionately tell the story of my triumphs, heartbreaks, and love. The primary foundation of my work is inspired by the patterns and colors found in nature. With all my art, I approach the blank canvas as a method of self-therapy, a very liberating and important process of my work. Art by Saumolia is a freestyle of thoughts, memories, and emotions layered by shapes, colors, and patterns-- all reminiscent of traditional designs and motifs inspired by my Sāmoan heritage.”
ABOUT the ARTIST
Saumolia Puapuaga was born in San Diego, California in 1983. He spent his formative years growing up in Hawaii on the island of Oahu, in the neighborhood of Kalihi. In 2006 Saumolia began honing his artistic abilities at Kapi'olani Community College and ultimately transferred to the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts in 2012. Saumolia’s artwork reflects his travels, personal experiences, and cultural integrity as a first generation Samoan American artist. He currently resides near the beautiful shores of Hau'ula, Hawaii where he can be found studying the water, playing with his dog Hula and working in his studio.
