On a recent trip, we were drawn into the Colors of Paradise Gallery on the Big Island of Hawaii because of the vibrant and soulful beauty of the paintings in the window. Captivated by the sea animals and surrounding underwater life in the paintings, we wanted to connect with the artist behind these radiant paintings that embody respect, passion, and love for all of nature, but especially the ocean and her sacred and majestic inhabitants.
Ernest Young, and his wife, Liz, took some time to meet with Paul on a busy Saturday morning. Like many other days in their lives, their energetic, respectful, and patient children waited while the three of us talked. Its clear the gallery, Ernest’s artwork, Liz’s real estate business, and the children’s educational experience are a family affair, and they are all supporting each other. Such joy emanated from every one.
Ernest did a lot of comic sketching while growing up. He had a passion and knack for drawing, which first resulted in creating culinary delights as a vocation, and then he met Liz. As it turns out, Liz’s father, Robert Thomas, was a well established island artist, and it was Robert who encouraged Ernest to give painting a try. The work and journey that have emerged are radiant and inspiring.
The journey has not been easy. It was a very challenging and scary decision to leave the steady job of culinary chef, and there are times, when Ernest and Liz wonder if this was the right decision, but they have moved forward with complete trust and faith in God. They continue to pray and to keep working hard, and the results of their faith are evident in the busy gallery (They were packing and shipping off a few recently purchased paintings on this particular morning, while Ernest was touching up another painting.), in the love and joy of Ernest’s paintings, and how the entire family is on this journey together.
Such talent Ernest has, but this is equaled by his humble outlook on life, his gratitude to God, and his love for what he has been able to create. Each painting has a story. A lesson. Meeting Ernest and Liz, connecting with Ernest’s work, and learning of his faith, all were a blessing and a lesson for us, and we are honored to add some of their story to our story.
Mahalo, Ernest and Liz, for sharing part of your life with us. You are to live for!
More information about Ernest can be found at www.colorsofparadise.com. All images copyrighted by Ernest Young.
