We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mary Arakawa a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Success is shaped by the situation and circumstances we face. In my career, success has sometimes meant pioneering new initiatives or finding solutions where others have struggled. Other times, it has involved recognizing the boundaries of my control and knowing when to step back.

In my younger years, diligence and hard work were the cornerstones of success. As I’ve grown, I’ve discovered that my artwork now revolves around creativity and making meaningful contributions. The question I often ask myself is: Am I creating something that resonates with my soul and connects with the world?

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Art has always been an integral part of my life. As a child, I loved drawing, painting, and creating with colorful paints and pencils. The creative freedom art provides has always brought me immense joy, serving as a way to express myself and explore the world around me.

Although I pursued a career in Information Technology, my passion for art never wavered, it lingered quietly, waiting for its moment to shine. After many fulfilling years in IT and retiring as a caregiver for my mother, I finally embraced the opportunity to follow my true calling. It was a liberating experience to fully step into the role of an artist, allowing my creative spirit to flourish.

My work is deeply rooted in my Japanese American heritage and inspired by the Hawaiian culture I came to love while living in Hawaii. The islands’ natural beauty—from the tranquil ocean to the vibrant flowers—often serves as my muse, infusing my art with a sense of serenity and wonder.

I particularly enjoy working with watercolor and gouache, mediums that capture the fluidity and vibrancy of the natural world. These paints allow me to blend spontaneity with intention, bringing my subjects to life in authentic and deeply expressive ways. My goal is to channel my visions and emotions into each piece, offering a sense of healing and connection to the soul.

Beyond traditional art on paper, I also share my work through merchandise such as tote bags, cards, and mugs. Knowing that my art becomes a part of someone’s everyday life fills me with gratitude, as it spreads beauty and positivity wherever it goes.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the freedom to create art that reflects my vision and share it with others. Through my work, I can express myself while weaving in cultural influences and sources of inspiration that hold deep meaning to me.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My art reflects the profound influence of Japanese American and Hawaiian cultures, blended with my passion for painting flowers, plants, and serene ocean and nature scenes. Through my creations, I strive to share the beauty of my heritage and unique perspective while offering a sense of healing and tranquility to those who experience my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.maryarakawa.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryarakawa.hoola
• Other: Etsy:
  https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaryArakawa

Image Credits

Photos by Mary Arakawa