As you’ve probably heard, the area of Maui, Hawaii is suffering from wildfires that are forcing thousands to evacuate. As of this writing, at least 36 people have lost their lives.
“Fueled by a dry summer and strong winds from a passing hurricane, the fire started Tuesday and took the island by surprise, racing through parched growth and neighborhoods in the historic town of Lahaina,” reported the Associated Press.
Lahaina, a tourist destination that dates to the 1700s, is also home to the Maui Plein Air Invitational and Village Galleries.
“Lahaina is a gem of a place and this destruction is hard to believe. Praying people made it out safely this morning because that fire moved fast,” artist Kathleen Hudson said. “As soon as relief efforts are underway and there are some funds established for residents who lost homes & livelihoods in the fire, I’d like to live stream a studio painting version of a plein air piece that I’m presuming was lost in the fires. I’ll auction it in order to raise money for relief.
“People in Lahaina have been hugely welcoming to me and to other artists who’ve taken part in Maui Plein Air events over the years and so I’d like to pitch in now that they’ll need our support.”
Our hearts go out to everyone affected. Please stay tuned for this fundraiser and more information as we receive it.
