Aloha and E Komo Mai!

I’m Kristina Valentine. An admirer of Mother Nature and an artist inspired by Mama Kauai and her abundance of natural beauty and unique treasures.

Growing up in Southern California and living near a canyon, I spent a lot of time hiking, fishing, camping and exploring in nature. I was often found filling my pockets with cool rocks, leaves with cool patterns, colorful feathers, familiar sticks, seeds, flowers… the occasional bone or dead butterfly. These trinkets were all so very special and unique in my eyes. They were all some form of art in their own way.

This childlike fascination with nature’s gifts is still very much alive and excited to create! I am here to share my collections and artistic creations of nature’s treasures. All Gypseahorse Kreations are inspired by Mother Nature, the magic of Kauai and encounters during my travels. Each piece/peace is made with lots of love and intention. My mediums vary from resin, alcohol inks, acrylic paint, to mixed media art, photography, jewelry, and collages. I always welcome collaboration and custom pieces.

Gypseahorse came to fruition by a beach combing day on Anahola Bay. I was wandering up the shore, inspecting shells and driftwood when I stumbled upon a peacefully preserved Seahorse that had unfortunately met his demise after a powerful storm. I read that Seahorses are sadly known to be so delicate that they can become fatally exhausted when waters get rough during storms. Seahorses are also known for being resilient, are considered good luck and a symbol of strength and power. I was slightly emotional and so enamored with this perfect little guy. It was such a personal and powerful moment - it triggered and inspired something in me. I named him Zeus (that’s him in the picture) and he is the mighty mascot of my art studio. Zeus inspired me to embrace my unique resilience and do something new with regards to my art.

I’m never really sure what medium is going to unfold… it could be a piece of jewelry with an abandoned shell, or perhaps a fish bone pendant. Maybe some driftwood art with shells, or a mosaic sea glass creation, or a photograph of a gorgeous Kauai moment captured forever. The point is that each art piece is one of a kind, made with love and childlike curiosity and abandon.

May you always embrace your inner childlike wonder and innocent nature! Stop and smell the trees and hug a flower!

Mahalo Nui Loa for stopping by!