Hawaii art duo brings sustainability and play together in murals

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – If you’re after a word to describe the art of husband-and-wife team Matt and Roxanne Ortiz – whimsical fits the bill.

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”A lot of our work that people might know are our murals or illustrations for treehouses. That came together with the idea of sustainability and play,” Roxanne said.

Each mural they paint is an adventure to explore. The closer you look, the more you see.

”We consciously plan our work so that when you’re looking at it from far away it attracts you with the color and shapes. But we like to reward the viewer that takes the time to come in closer and look at all the details that we’ve hidden in there. That’s where a lot of the storytelling comes into play,” she said.

The climate conscious couple paint under the name Wooden Wave. Even that has an earthy tone.

”Wood, the reference is mauka. Wave would be makai. Sort of that idea of balancing the two opposites,” Matt said.

The couple began collaborating on art projects in college. They have now painted close to 30 murals. Most are in Hawaii, but some are on the mainland and one is in the Middle East.

“Our thing is we really love to meet people and learn the stories. There’s a lot of joy in that. So hopefully that comes through,” Matt said.

“We usually wear Aloha shirts when we’re painting in other places, too. Good conversation starter,” Roxanne said.

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A project begins with research into the uniqueness of the place where their art will stand.

The treehouses in their finished pieces aren’t what you would expect. They symbolize the merging of old and new and are their signature stamps that add fun and flair.

”So we like to include solar panels and water catchments, different ways that you could actually live in a treehouse,” Roxanne said.

“Half-pipes, skate ramps, surf boards, skate boards. All those things. Super essential necessities,” Matt said.

The art duo has been painting together for so long their system is down to a science and plays to their individual strengths as artists.

“Who calls the shots?” Matt jokes

“I do, for sure,” Roxanne answers.

That chemistry is crucial to their success.

“She’s good at channeling my energies. Otherwise, they just go everywhere. Roxy’s the focuser,” Matt said.

The Ortiz’s are best known for their murals, but they are also designers and illustrators who explore other aspects of art.

”If anyone wants to see our work you can go to our website at WoodenWaveArt.com,” Matt said.

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You can also follow them on Instagram @wooden_wave.