Whenever I visit Hawaii, I love exploring its local art scene. There are so many places to find beautiful paintings, jewelry, and crafts made right on the islands by talented artists.
Galleries like Maui Hands, Sunshine Arts Gallery, and Nohea Gallery offer work from hundreds of Hawaii-based artists.
I always enjoy seeing unique pieces made from koa wood, glass, and Niihau shells. Whether I visit a small gallery in Honolulu or browse online, I discover something new every time.
If you want to support Hawaii’s creative community and bring home a special piece of the islands, start with these local art galleries.
It’s exciting to browse handmade Hawaiian art, from classic paintings to modern crafts. Here are the best spots to shop for local art in person and online.
Top Places to Buy Local Art in Hawaii
Hawaii has fantastic spots to discover original local art, especially on Oahu and in Honolulu. You can choose from a wide range of styles, prices, and unique pieces.
Best Art Galleries on Oahu
When I visit Oahu, I stop by galleries that highlight local talent. Maui Hands is one of the most well-known, with several locations showing paintings, woodwork, ceramics, and jewelry by Hawaii artists.
You can find everything from koa wood pieces to glasswork and local photography at Maui Hands. Another favorite is Kai Ku Hale in Haleiwa on the North Shore.
This shop stands out because its art reflects the spirit of the islands. The owner’s love for design shapes the space, and they offer one-of-a-kind pieces with each visit.
Learn more about their variety at the Kai Ku Hale website.
Where to Find Art in Honolulu
In Honolulu, I enjoy the art scene at places like Mori by Art + Flea. This spot has a modern vibe and showcases prints, home goods, and art by up-and-coming Hawaii artists.
If you want something fresh for your home or wish to support new talent, check it out. Many locals shop at South Shore Market, where Mori by Art + Flea is located, making it easy to explore multiple artists at once.
Find their current collection and hours at the Mori by Art + Flea website.
I also like exploring the Capitol Modern Hawaii State Art Museum, which features works from established and rising artists. Yelp’s list is a helpful guide if you want to see reviews and photos before you go.
For more options, see the best local art shops in Honolulu.
Contemporary Spaces & Creative Markets
Hawaii offers places where local artists and shoppers connect in a relaxed setting. These spots mix creativity, shopping, and community in a way unique to the islands.
MORI by Art + Flea
When I want to find local art in a fresh, youthful space, I visit MORI by Art + Flea. The shop sits at South Shore Market in Honolulu.
They sell colorful prints, handmade crafts, and jewelry made by Hawaii artists. Items here range from affordable art pieces to more unique gifts, all created by local makers.
MORI by Art + Flea often highlights up-and-coming talent. Their selection changes often, so there’s always something new.
You can find paintings, tote bags, zines, and stationery. The staff shares stories about the artists behind each piece.
Their displays make browsing easy and support small businesses. Each purchase helps local artists keep creating.
Quick Facts:
| Location | South Shore Market, Honolulu |
|---|---|
| Featured Items | Prints, crafts, jewelry |
| Focus | Local and new artists |
Art Events at South Shore Market
South Shore Market is also a spot for creative events and gatherings. I have attended pop-up art shows, craft fairs, and live performances here.
These events let me meet artists, ask questions, and see art made on the spot. The market is family-friendly and open to all ages, making it a casual way to explore Hawaii’s creative scene.
The spaces are bright and open, creating a lively atmosphere. Local food vendors and musicians often join, adding to the festive feeling.
I look for workshops and interactive booths, especially during weekends or special event days. Here, I learn about new art forms, try hands-on activities, and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
If I want to connect with the local art community and get inspired, South Shore Market is one of my favorite places.
Discovering Unique Local Artists
Hawaii is full of creative people making art in new and exciting ways. I find painters and artists who use their backgrounds to give each piece a unique touch.
Lauren Trangmar
Lauren Trangmar mixes detailed drawings with modern digital design. She often finds inspiration in Hawaiian wildlife and culture, blending history with a fresh artistic look.
Her art features careful lines, rich textures, and images that highlight Hawaii’s natural world. She creates illustrated maps, prints, and mixed-media art that show animals like birds and sea creatures in imaginative settings.
Her art fits well in homes, offices, or as a unique gift. You can find Lauren’s art at galleries featuring local talent.
One place I visit is Maui Hands Art Galleries, which carries art from over 300 Hawaii-based creators.
Judd Boloker
Judd Boloker creates colorful, energetic paintings and prints. His scenes capture the movement and life in Hawaii, from waves crashing to people surfing.
He uses bold colors and expressive brushwork to bring the energy of the islands to life. His art includes acrylic paintings, giclée prints, and pieces inspired by his background in environmental studies.
Judd’s work brings me closer to the ocean, landscapes, and local communities. You can find his paintings at local galleries and curated shops focused on Hawaiian artists.
Galleries like Blue Sea Artisans Gallery offer diverse artwork from people like Judd.
Exploring the Local Art Scene in Hilo
When I visit Hilo, I see a strong focus on community artists. This town stands out for its range of galleries, creative spaces, and local shops that make art easy to find.
Art Galleries and Shops in Hilo
Hilo’s downtown offers a mix of art galleries, studios, and shops run by friendly locals. One Gallery Hawaii has a community spirit and shows work from over 150 island artists.
Every time I stop in, I see paintings, jewelry, and handmade crafts that reflect Hawai’i’s culture. You can explore more on the One Gallery Hawaii website.
If I want hands-on experience, I choose High Fire Hawaii Gallery and Studios. They display local art and offer pottery and painting workshops.
These classes welcome both beginners and experienced artists. Check out class info and unique art at the High Fire Hawaii Gallery and Studios page.
For smaller, lesser-known spots, I search local guides to find other art spaces. Some places, like the East Hawaii Cultural Center, hold art events and rotating exhibits to give more artists a chance to shine.
I use online lists and guides like this one on Yelp to stay up to date with what’s new in Hilo.
Types of Hawaii Local Art to Buy
When I shop for local art in Hawaii, I find a range of options that reflect the islands’ culture and natural beauty. Some favorites include fine art prints and ceramic pieces that make unique gifts or souvenirs.
Fine Art Prints
Fine art prints in Hawaii often show scenes from nature, local wildlife, or island life. Artists use vivid colors and bold styles to capture the spirit of the islands.
Prints can show landscapes like beaches, waterfalls, or volcanoes, as well as flowers such as hibiscus or plumeria. Galleries sell prints from both well-known and emerging artists.
Prints are usually more affordable than original paintings, making them a great choice on a budget. Many places offer prints in different sizes.
Popular subjects:
- Hawaiian beaches
- Tropical plants
- Local festivals
- Island sunsets
A good place to buy authentic Hawaiian prints is Maui Hands Art Galleries, which works with local artists and offers many styles.
Ceramics
Ceramics are another popular type of local art in Hawaii. Potters and ceramic artists create pieces inspired by the islands, using local clay and glazes to make bowls, vases, mugs, dishes, and decorative objects.
Many ceramics are hand-painted with traditional Hawaiian designs, island motifs, or bright colors. Some artisans craft ceramics in the shape of local flowers, sea creatures, or waves.
These pieces are beautiful and practical, offering a reminder of Hawaii I can use every day. I look for unique ceramic work at local shops and galleries that feature handmade items.
Maui Hands Art Galleries also offers ceramics made by Hawaii artists.
Supporting the Hawaii Arts Community
I help local artists in Hawaii. This support allows me to preserve island culture and encourage creativity.
Every purchase connects me with artists who create unique works. Their art draws inspiration from Hawaii’s land, sea, and history.
Tips for Finding Authentic Local Art
When I visit galleries, I look for signs that artists made the art in Hawaii. I check the artist’s biography, local subject matter, and handmade details.
Places like Kai Ku Hale in Oahu showcase handmade jewelry, paintings, and décor by local artists. Local makers craft these unique pieces.
I also watch for events and festivals that highlight native Hawaiian talent. Programs like Maoli Arts Movement celebrate and support native Hawaiian artists through exhibits and sales.
Before I buy, I ask where the artist lives or how the piece was made. I buy directly from a maker or their trusted shop to make sure my purchase supports Hawaii’s art community.
