Art

Item Description

Beautiful Koa Art Panel

Koa is the iconic, endemic wood of Hawaii. Rare and beautiful, this legendary wood is deeply tied to the story and history of the Hawaiian Islands. And it has been said that the best koa trees grow at the higher elevations of the Big Island where this koa was grown. 

This very special wood is a favorite choice of Maui woodworker and artist Radd Haferkamp who created this statement abstract piece. Radd’s artistic technique, which he calls “shock” art, is his interpretation of the Lichtenberg Figure Effect, a natural occurrence resulting from a lightning strike that leaves a fernlike pattern on the skin or perhaps a large area of grass. Lichtenberg figures usually disappear in 24 – 48 hours but Radd’s are beautifully permanent. To simulate this natural phenomenon, Radd creates a pattern by applying a mix of baking soda and water to the wood and then charges it with 15,000 volts of electricity. The pattern is burned into the wood in gorgeous contrast to the wood itself.

This piece showcases the unique graining and color variation of highly prized koa. Add to that the dramatic pattern which goes from edge to edge and this piece will make a statement wherever you hang it, whether vertically or horizontally.

Donated by the artist, this unique work of art measures 5 ½ ” x 41 ¾ ”. 

Gallery estimate: $400

About the Artist

Born in Galveston, Texas in 1979, Radd traveled all over the United States before making his home on Maui in 2002. He started working with wood at the age of 15 when he apprenticed under his father, a carpenter and woodworker. Many of Radd’s works adorn unique homes on Maui, and he is well known for the architectural elements he introduces in entryways and kitchens.

Radd has been producing fine wood pieces since 2004 and has been perfecting his “shock” art for the past few years. Shock art is Radd’s interpretation of the Litchenberg Figures. By removing the transformer from a microwave oven and adapting it use the 15,000 volts of electricity to create his pieces, he is currently mastering the ability to shape this wild art into recognizable forms such as honu and other creatures of Hawai’i.

In addition to his artwork, Radd is recognized for his custom cabinetry, furniture and other fine woodwork. He is happy to create custom pieces by commission. To learn more about Radd, his work and to view a short video on the Lichtenberg Figure Effect, visit www.raddwoodworks.com

Item Special Note

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