Maui Artist Rafael Pereda unveils “Lahainaluna” to mark third anniversary of Lahaina Fire

As Lahaina marks three years since the Aug. 8, 2023 fire, Maui artist Rafael Pereda is unveiling “Lahainaluna,” a deeply personal new painting created over the past year in honor of the community he has called home for more than two decades.

A self-taught palette knife artist originally from Peru, Pereda lived and worked in Lahaina for more than 20 years, where he owned and operated Gallery Rafael on historic Front Street. Both his home and gallery were lost in the 2023 fire.

Pereda has spent much of the past year working on “Lahainaluna,” pouring his heart, memories and connection to Lahaina into the piece with the goal of completing it in time for the third anniversary of the fire.

“This painting comes from my heart,” said Pereda. “Lahaina has been my home and inspiration for so many years. Even after everything that has happened, I continue to find beauty, strength and inspiration here. Painting is how I share what I feel, and I hope when people see ‘Lahainaluna,’ they feel some of the love I have for this place and this community.”

The new work follows Pereda’s 2025 painting, “Tribute to Lahaina,” which he created ahead of the second anniversary of the fire after more than six months and 200 hours of work. The original painting was purchased and is now proudly displayed at The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas.

Pereda continues to serve as an artist-in-residence at The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas, where he paints live five days a week and shares his distinctive palette knife technique and Maui-inspired artwork with visitors from around the world. “Lahainaluna” will be on display at The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas and will soon be available for purchase. Pereda can be found painting live at the resort five days a week, offering community members an opportunity to view “Lahainaluna” in person and experience his creative process.

Known for his vibrant use of color and signature palette knife technique, Pereda’s work captures Maui’s distinctive landscapes, sunsets and ocean scenes. His artwork can also be found at Totally Hawaiian Gift Gallery in Whalers Village on Maui, as well as online at rafaelpereda.com.

For more information about “Lahainaluna,” contact Pereda at rafaelartmaui@gmail.com or 808-446-4843, or visit rafaelpereda.com.