Kerri Ligatich
Sponsored in part by Mathew and Kerri Ligatich
You will be amazed at Kerri’s Honu in progress. Click here to view.
(Neck area sample: These colors will appear on most of the Honu Belly)
“In Hawaii the journey searching for a new life begins with the arrival of the first Polynesians. For generations people came from around the world making Hawaii their home. Iʻm one of that latest to make that journey looking for a better, healthier life. The base of the turtle is given a rock texture with petroglyphs.
(Flipper sample: Watercolors dropped into one another and allowed to granulate. Sample includes Sodalite, Amazonite, Kingman Green Turquoise, Malachite, Zoisite, Rare Green Earth, Purpurite, Sedona, Hematite, Tigers Eye, Burnt Tigers Eye, Quinacridones Gold, Burnt Scarlet and Burnt Orange. These will transition in color as different pigments & ratios are used.)
They represent the journey with canoes, paddlers and families guided by the Honu. The individual stones that rise up between the petroglyphs are the locations we come from. The Honu has the world blended on itsʻ back with the use of all the colors in the shell. I see Hawaii as one of the most blended places culturally in the world.
(Back Carapace sample: An absorbent ground gesso is painted in the natural fan shape patterns of the shell. Many watercolors, 40-50 pigments will be worked into the patterns. The colors will transition down the back. This sample with approximately 25 colors uses more reds. Later greens may dominate. Each will still contain the multi colored blends. For the Belly, again I will follow natureʻs patterns but more colors will be used. Golden earth tones will stand out the most.)
“The Big Island of Hawaii is my “Healing Stone”. In 1996 I developed chronic joint and muscle illnesses Early on a doctor told me I would need to move from Oregon for my health. As my life quickly changed the same doctor suggested I try something like an art class. I began with a watercolor class which still is my preferred medium. My husband and I visited the Big Island with high hopes of finding a better location for me. Each time I came over my symptoms noticeably improved within a few days. The Big Island is now our home.
“It would be an honor to participate in the “Itʻs a Honu World” project. I feel like Iʻve come full circle. I would not have discovered art or moved to Hawaii at this time if it were not for my chronic illnesses. It means a lot to me to use those artistic talents to benefit others on the Big Island. Health care and itsʻ maintenance is a major part of my life. I would like the money raised by my work to help with the health care of the community.”
Mahalo,
Kerri Ligatich
About Kerri, the Artist (Bio)
I now call the Puna District on the eastside of Hawaii home. My husband and I fell in love with the beauty, healthy lifestyle and aloha spirit. In the past, while working in the travel industry, I had the opportunity to travel frequently to Hawaii and several South Pacific islands.
Becoming an artist was never in my plans. I led a very busy life a a Realtor in Oregon and also volunteered at our daughters schools. Life changed quickly for me in 1996 when chronic illness began. I was later diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, Myofacial Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. A doctor suggested I try something new like an art class. In 1998 I took my first watercolor class at Mt. Hood Community College. I continue to take classes and attend workshops whenever possible. I enjoy learning new things and trying different techniques.
I was encouraged to join the Portland Fine Arts Guild. In 2002 I was juried in as an active member. I started participating in shows and have won several awards including Judgeʻs Choice and Peopleʻs Choice. Through a Revolving Exhibits Program my artwork has been displayed in many Portland area businesses.
Iʻve become very active in the artistic community. I joined Volcano Art Center and East Hawaii Cultural Center. My art has been displayed in several juried and group art shows, galleries and shops on the Big Island. I now teach watercolor classes. It is very rewarding and Iʻve made many new friends. You can usually find me painting each Friday at Ahalanui “Hot Pond” State Park with a group of great artists.
I never would have discovered art at this time in my life if the chronic illnesses had not occurred. Health and itsʻ maintenance take priority with my time. However, Iʻm glad I have the opportunity to create art and share my love of it with others.
