After a visit to Monet's gardens in Giverny France in 1999 I started to look for a way to combine computer and traditional Japanese print techniques to achieve an impressionistic style. The result are Ao Ki`i or "Light Images" - a new form of Hawaiian art from Maui. I've expanded my interests to include wood crafts in the form of clocks and tables that incorporate stained glass, carving and gold/abalone inlay. These are displayed under "Mori Ki `i" or "Forrest Images".

The technique I developed uses a Mulberry based archival paper that lets the pigments penetrate into the fibers of the paper. Much as Tiffany's stained glass allows the glass to become part of the image so my technique allows the paper to become part of the picture.

The paper is so thin that light from the back can shine through to the front. When I frame the prints I put archival mats and UV absorbing antireflection glass on both the front and back sides. (I also offer acrylic glazing.) This lets either natural light or light from LED light bars I make illuminate the picture from behind.

Beyond the technology I have tried to select images that are reflective and impressionistic. I hope you will enjoy them.

The acrylic glazed pictures ship easily because the glazing is not breakable. The hardwood/glass products are much heavier and require special shipping arrangements. All the images can also be made in smaller sizes than the 16" maximum width. If you have a particular size requirement let us know.

Please visit the on line GALLERY or GALLERY VIDEO (a short video) to see the range of images we offer. If you see one you like let us know your selection by email (gforrest@alum.mit.edu) or mail at 207 Uakoko Place, Haiku, HI 96708 and we will send you additional instructions regarding payment.

Ao Ki`i are mounted in hardwood frames; typically maple, teak, koa, walnut or mahogany. They are glazed in UV absorbing, antireflection glass on on the front and UV absorbing conservation glass on the back. Wall hung Ao Ki`i are typically 16" to 20" tall and up to 35" in length depending on the image. Some incorporate an LED light bar for illumination. These are priced at $4000-8000 each. Table top Ao Ki`i are free standing and illuminated with natural and room light. They are typically 16"x12" in size and range in price from $2000 to $5000.