​It’s time to bundle up again! My feet have barely seen the inside of shoes in the last 2 years. These days they are constantly wrapped in a layer of wool socks and boots. It feels strange to wear my old clothes again. I can’t help but feel like I am stepping into a costume of sorts. Who is this woman in long sweaters, scarves, hats and thermal underwear? I find myself acclimating to Utah’s desert cold climate, physically just as much as mentally. 
 

Typically, my students tell me that my workshops were a transformative experience, because they were able to approach the blank canvas without fear for the first time in their lives. As a result, they were able to paint freely, intuitively, enjoying the process along the way.

We arrived in Salt Lake City on Tuesday. I barely had time to unpack my bags. I boarded a plane to Atlanta on Friday. I forgot to bring my apron, my spray bottle, paper towels, Saran wrap, and music. Usually I am not this forgetful. But in the midst of a major move, this is the best I could do. 

This ain't the Mainland! My first Fearless Abstract Painting party where some of the participants actually wore their bathing suits! What's not to love?! Our paintings took a heck of a long time to dry due to the humidity, but at the end of the night (and an amazing meal), we enjoyed an "art walk" featuring our works, using our phones as flashlights. I love painting in Hawaii. I think the dogs had a good time also... They just couldn't resist leaving their paw prints on the canvasses!

Painting on Maui is an incredible experience. I am grateful for every moment I get to do what I love in this stunning place. The humidity extends the drying time of my paints, enabling me to manipulate the colors and shapes for much longer than I am used to. When I am finally ready to step back and place my paintings in the sun, the Lahaina heat acts like a giant blow dryer, drying my paintings at record speeds. Everywhere I look, I am inspired by this tiny, impossible island, floating in the middle of the Pacific, brimming full of the kind of beauty I always knew existed, but never experienced until now.
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What kind of paints do you want us to bring? Can I bring different colors than the ones suggested on your supply list? Do we get a lunch break? What should I wear? 20 frequently asked questions & answers now available on my website: ​https://www.samanthadasilva.com/faqs.html

Join me on October 6 & 7 in Atlanta, GA at Fountainhead Art Space for 2-days of Fearless Abstract Painting w/ Metallics. Only a few spots left! 

For more information & to register: https://www.fountainheadartspace.com/samantha-dasilva

When my husband and I honeymooned on Maui nearly 2-years ago, we found this gem of a store in the quaint, little beach town of Paia, Hawaii. I have been imagining my paintings on display here ever since. For me, it doesn't get any better than this complimentary duo: Beautiful paintings & beautiful clothing.

​A heartfelt thank you to Sun Days Hawaii for supporting local artists in the community. I am both thrilled and honoured to be part of your talented roster of creatives.