Guest Blog: Lola Pilar Hawaii, Founder of Fine Art Photography Inspired by Vintage Hawaiian Quilts

March 15, 2022

Aloha! My name is Kristen Reyno and I’m the founder and photographer of Lola Pilar Hawaii, maker of Hawaii-made photographic artwork inspired by vintage Hawaiian quilts.

I grew up surfing, hiking, and enjoying the life that living on an island paradise provides. Being surrounded by so much beauty, I started photographing my surroundings and my passion for photography blossomed. My inspiration grew from capturing the sea, mountains, and vibrant flowers in Hawai’i, and eventually led me to Brooks Institute of Photography in Ventura, California where I received a BA in Film with an emphasis in Commercial Advertising.

I then worked with a major surf company where I was a staff photographer photographing hundreds of product photos a week. This was the backbone of Lola Pilar Hawaii.

My dream was to photograph and capture the world in unique ways to bring joy to others. My love for Hawai’i’s local flora coupled with my training in product photography, is what planted the seed for my fine art. I wanted to honor Hawai’i’s heritage, but in a contemporary way. So I took inspiration from Vintage Hawaiian quilts and my love of flowers and started photographing them.

Each flower-quilt design involves sourcing fruit and flowers from aunties’ backyards, in addition to lei and fruit stands throughout Hawai’i. Some words of nature are deserving enough to knock on doors! The meticulous manicuring and careful placement of flowers can take hours before photographing each final image. My hope is to bring a smile to your face and Hawai’i’s nature and beauty into your home. Most importantly, my pieces are all a work of love.

We are currently expanding our product line and have a wide selection of prints, silk scarves, cotton pareos, and pouches. Everything can be found on our website at www.lolapilarhawaii.com.