Mother and Child by Arthur Johnsen (Giclée)
Artist: Arthur Johnsen
Title: Untitled [Mother and Child]
Medium: Limited Edition Print (Giclée) by Mo Media, using archival medias and UltraChrome™ inks, noted as fade-resistant.
Year: 2005
Dimensions: 27 x 20 in.
Framed: Yes, included (4 in. frame)
Mother and Child is a tender and evocative portrait by Arthur Johnsen, renowned for his depictions of Hawaiian people and landscapes. In this painting, a Native Hawaiian woman cradles a young child against a lush backdrop of white hibiscus flowers. With exquisite detail and sensitivity, Johnsen captures the powerful intimacy between mother and child, reflecting the nurturing strength of Hawaiian women and the generational ties that ground island culture. The floral surroundings and traditional pareo evoke a deep sense of place and heritage, reinforcing the artist’s commitment to portraying the spirit and dignity of his subjects.
About the artisit
Arthur Johnsen was a deeply soulful artist and Jeff’s dear friend, whose work reflected both his gentle spirit and his deep connection to the land and people of Hawai‘i. Born and raised on the islands, he dedicated his life to painting scenes that carried both cultural significance and emotional resonance.
His most celebrated commission came in 2003, when the Bishop Museum selected him to paint the official portrait of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, which now hangs at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park—a piece that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
Over the years, Arthur’s canvases captured not only the beauty of Hawai‘i’s landscapes but also its myths, traditions, and living spirit, blending realism with a touch of the mystical. His paintings have found homes in private collections, bussiness, and galleries alike, each one infused with his passion and reverence for the islands. To own one of his works is to carry a piece of his legacy—a legacy of artistry, aloha, and profound respect for the stories of this land.