Discover the Hawaiian Artists, Studios, & Galleries That Make This Area So Special
Volcano, Hawai‘i may be best known for its dramatic landscapes and its proximity to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, but the area holds something else just as vibrant: its art scene. Our creative little village is home to an incredible community of artists inspired by the island’s energy, landscape, and culture. From fiery glass-blown sculptures to delicate woodblock prints, volcano art captures the spirit of Hawai‘i in every form.
Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, or just someone who appreciates creativity, the artistic offerings around Volcano will leave you in awe.
Here’s a look at the artists and studios that make Volcano one of the most creative corners of the Hawaiian Islands and why you should add a gallery crawl to your stay at our Volcanoes National Park vacation rental.
2400 Fahrenheit
Michael and Misato Mortara’s 2400 Fahrenheit studio is all about heat, light, and movement. Named after the temperature required for glassblowing, this working studio and gallery showcases stunning hand-blown glass pieces, from sea-inspired bowls to fiery red vessels that echo the lava that flows nearby. Michael and Misato have been blowing glass in Volcano since the 1990s, drawing inspiration from their surroundings and pushing the boundaries of their craft. Visitors can tour the studio, watch live glassblowing (when available), and shop one-of-a-kind pieces that make for unforgettable souvenirs.
Ira Ono
You can’t talk about Volcano’s creative spirit without mentioning Ira Ono. A true pioneer in the local art scene, Ira is a multi-media artist and curator whose work spans everything from whimsical sculpture to wearable art. His signature space, Volcano Garden Arts, is both a studio and a beautifully curated gallery featuring not only his own work but pieces by dozens of Hawai‘i-based artists. This lush garden setting is a must-stop for anyone exploring Volcano’s artistic side.
Lisa Louise Adams
Lisa Louise Adams brings a joyful, storybook quality to her work. With a background in fiber arts, pottery, and illustration, Lisa creates everything from vibrant watercolor paintings to quirky clay figures and heartfelt quilts. Her art is full of color, whimsy, and emotion deeply rooted in the landscape and the people of Hawai‘i. You can view her work online or find it showcased locally, often displayed in galleries and community art shows in Volcano.
Margaret Barnaby
If you’re drawn to traditional techniques and deep symbolism, Margaret Barnaby’s woodblock prints are worth exploring. She’s been creating detailed, hand-carved prints for over 40 years, often centered on Hawaiian birds, plants, and mythology. Her work is layered with meaning, drawing from Hawaiian language and stories, making each piece both visually and culturally rich. Margaret’s studio is in Volcano, and her work is featured in galleries across the island.
Emily Herb of Apapane Pottery
At Apapane Pottery, Emily Herb crafts sculptural clay vessels and functional pottery inspired by nature, utilizing fern patterns, lava textures, and earthy glazes that reflect the volcanic terrain around her. Each piece feels like a piece of the island, shaped by hand and infused with intention. You can find her work at Volcano Art Center or Elements Jewelry & Fine Crafts in the town of Hawi in North Kohala.
Chiu Leong
Known for his elegant porcelain teaware, Chiu Leong creates pieces that elevate the ritual of tea. His work is delicate yet functional, featuring hand-carved designs and a minimalist aesthetic that complements the volcanic beauty of the area. You can find Chiu’s pieces at Tea Hawai‘i, which he runs with his wife, Eva Lee, where guests can enjoy Hawai‘i-grown teas. If you love both art and tea, this is a beautiful blend of both worlds.
Jaime M. Lesourd
Jaime Lesourd uses kiln-formed glass to create pieces that shimmer with color and texture. Her work is deeply influenced by Hawaiian flora, ocean waves, and island life. Each piece, whether it’s a bold bowl or a delicate glass sculpture, is designed to reflect natural movement and light. Book an appointment at the glass studio to meet Jamie, explore her latest creations, and view stunning outdoor glass garden sculptures. While you’re here, enjoy a stroll through the botanical garden and check out their charming farm.
Elizabeth Miller
Elizabeth Miller is a mixed-media artist whose portfolio includes painting, printmaking, and metalwork. Her art has a raw, organic quality that often draws from the landscape and energy of Volcano. Through bold colors and expressive brushwork, Elizabeth captures both the calm and the chaos of island life. Her work is featured at Volcano Art Center and is available through her online gallery.
Erik Wold
Erik Wold’s high-fire functional pottery is made to be used and appreciated every day. Simple, clean forms and subtle glaze variations make his mugs, bowls, and plates a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Passionate about sharing his craft, Erik regularly leads hands-on workshops and classes at the Volcano Art Center. You can also find him most Saturdays at the Hilo Farmers Market, showcasing his latest work.
Patti Pease Johnson
Patti Pease Johnson is a multi-disciplinary artist known for her vibrant pastels, silk paintings, and abstract acrylics. Inspired by the colors and natural rhythms of Hawai‘i, her work captures the essence of island life with a mix of fluidity and intensity. She also teaches workshops, helping others tap into their creative spirit while visiting the island. Her work can be found in the Volcano Art Center Gallery and at several Hilo art galleries and museums. You can also purchase any of her available collections directly through her website.
Mo‘e Hot Glass
Mo‘e Hot Glass, led by artist Daniel Moe, specializes in blown glass inspired by nature, light, and movement. Their pieces are created using traditional techniques with a focus on sustainability and harmony with the local environment, including vases, bowls, and decorative sculptures that reflect the glow and flow of molten glass. You can find Daniel’s art at some of the best art galleries throughout the Islands of Hawai’i, including Volcano Art Center, and Genesis Gallery in Waikoloa Village on the island of Maui.
The Heart of Volcano’s Art Scene
What makes Volcano’s art scene so special is the connection between place and creativity. The rainforest, the Volcano, the stars, and the stories all show up in the work created here. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover something new, exploring local studios and galleries adds an enriching layer to your Big Island adventure.
Many of these artists have work featured at the Volcano Art Center, located in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. It’s a great place to start if you’re looking to experience a range of local talent all in one stop.
If you’re staying at our Volcanoes National Park vacation rental, you’ll be perfectly situated to dive into this world of art and inspiration. Spend the morning hiking among lava tubes and steam vents, then spend the afternoon visiting studios, meeting artists, and collecting a piece of Volcano to bring home with you. After all, the best kind of souvenir is one that tells a story. Stay with us and find yours!