Cynthia Hankins, a photographer of marine life and ocean environments, is Kailua Village Artists’ featured member for October.
Cynthia Hankins, a photographer of marine life and ocean environments, is Kailua Village Artists’ featured member for October.
Hankins studied biology at the University of California at Santa Cruz, where she developed an understanding of animal behavior and biological systems. When diving in Monterey Bay, she was captivated by the underwater scenery and marine life, she said. Driven by the inspiration to study the undersea world further, she started taking photographs of this new world. This hobby became a passion for the art she eventually turned into a career.
Since moving to Hawaii in 2005, Hankins has spent thousands of hours studying and observing the behavior and habits of the island’s marine life. She merges her scientific knowledge with an artistic eye.
Hankins will talk story with the public Oct. 26 and 28 at the Alii Sunset Plaza Gallery.
The Kailua Village Artists will host its final reception at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort from 4 to 7 p.m. today. Light pupu will be served. Hankins will be joined by artists Betty Gerstner and Marilyn Koschella. Hankins will return to the gallery Oct. 19. The gallery is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday until the hotel closes Oct. 31. Visit kailuavillageartists.com for updates on a new location.