Mara Branco

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Native Hawaiian Forest

For years, I've found pleasure and inspiration in painting the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of Hawaii's native endemic birds. It all began with a simple commission to paint the iconic ‘I’iwi, a moment that ignited my passion for capturing the essence of these remarkable creatures on canvas. I made a conscious decision to paint a collection dedicated to Hawaii's endemic birds.

Immersing myself in studying these beautiful birds has been an enriching journey, filled with awe and admiration for their unique characteristics and the delicate ecosystems they inhabit.

So, you can imagine my happiness when I learned that 2024 was officially proclaimed as Makahiki o Nā Manu Nahele, The Year of The Forest Birds in Hawaiʻi County.

In honor of this historic milestone, I've designed a collection featuring the forest birds I've lovingly painted over the years, the ‘I’iwi, the Palila, the ‘Akepa, the ‘Anianiau, and the ‘Ākohekohe. These cute illustrations symbolize solidarity and support for the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these endangered species. From notebooks to keychains, stickers, and PopSockets, these products are not just accessories but heartfelt tokens of appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our natural world.

I invite you to explore my collection at my Zazzle shop, where you'll find a curated selection of items adorned with these charming illustrations. Whether treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift for a fellow nature enthusiast, these are perfect gifts to express your love and support for this endangered bird.

Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey, and please feel free to share this with your friends and loved ones. Together, we can spread awareness and advocate for protecting these magnificent creatures that call Hawaii home.

If there are other products you'd like to see featuring my illustrations, don't hesitate to let me know—I'm always eager to hear your ideas and suggestions.


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