Rafael Pereda unveiled his latest work, “Tribute to Lahaina,” a painting created in honor of the town he called home for more than two decades. Photo courtesy Rafael Perada

As Maui reflected on the second anniversary of the tragic events of Aug. 8, 2023, one Maui-based artist contributed his own personal visual remembrance.

Rafael Pereda unveiled his latest work, “Tribute to Lahaina,” a painting created in honor of the town he called home for more than two decades.

Since the fire, Perada has continued his work as an artist-in-residence at The Westin Kaʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas, where he paints live on-site five days a week and offers prints of his original pieces to guests from around the world.

Pereda is a self-taught artist originally from Peru. He lived and worked in Lahaina for more than 20 years, where he owned and operated Gallery Rafael on Front Street.

Both his gallery and home were destroyed in the August 2023 fire. Known for his vibrant use of color and signature palette knife technique, Pereda’s work seeks to capture the beauty and emotion of Maui’s landscapes, sunsets and ocean scenes.

“Tribute to Lahaina” took more than six months and 200 hours to complete. Signed prints will be available for purchase, along with the original painting.

“This painting is my love letter to Lahaina,” Pereda said. “It holds all my memories and emotions for a place that gave me so much. I’m incredibly thankful to everyone who has supported my art over the years whether by purchasing a piece, visiting my gallery, or simply sharing kind words. It’s an honor to share my love for Maui and art with everyone I meet.”

His work can also be found at Totally Hawaiian Gift Gallery in Whalers Village on Maui and at Island Art Galleries in Waikiki on Oahu.

For more about “Tribute to Lahaina” and Pereda, galleryrafaelonline.com.